Food Department Exposes Fake Paneer Factory
A shocking food adulteration case has surfaced in Gujarat’s Surat where authorities uncovered a factory producing fake paneer using harmful chemicals instead of milk. The raid was carried out in the Pandesara area after officials received information about suspicious food production activities.
During the operation, officials from the food safety department discovered that the so-called paneer being manufactured at the facility was not made from milk. Instead, it was produced using industrial chemicals, cheap palm oil, and milk powder substitutes. Laboratory tests later confirmed that the seized product was sub-standard and potentially harmful to human health.
Authorities seized a large quantity of the fake paneer along with machines used for production and packaging.
1,400 Kg Fake Paneer Recovered During Raid
Officials revealed that more than 1,400 kilograms of suspected adulterated paneer were seized during the raid. The factory was reportedly operating illegally and supplying this fake product to local dairies, small food vendors, and budget restaurants.
Investigators also confiscated equipment such as mixers, pasteurisers, weighing machines, packaging materials, and chemicals used in the manufacturing process. The total value of the seized materials and machinery was estimated to be around ₹28 lakh.
Authorities said the accused had been running the illegal operation for nearly two years and allegedly produced around 400 kilograms of fake paneer daily.
Industrial Acid and Palm Oil Used Instead of Milk
The investigation revealed disturbing details about how the fake paneer was made. Instead of curdling milk with lemon juice or food-grade citric acid, the accused allegedly used industrial-grade acetic acid, which is normally used in factories.
Lab tests also found extremely low milk fat content in the seized paneer. Instead, the product contained high amounts of palm oil and milk solids powder, which were mixed to imitate the appearance and texture of real paneer.
Experts say such adulteration practices pose serious health risks because industrial chemicals are not safe for human consumption.
Health Experts Warn of Serious Diseases
Medical experts have warned that consuming such fake dairy products could lead to serious health complications. Continuous consumption of chemically adulterated food may damage internal organs and increase the risk of diseases.
According to health professionals, substances like industrial acid and low-quality oils can potentially cause digestive problems, kidney damage, and long-term illnesses.
Because paneer is widely consumed in Indian households and restaurants, the discovery of such adulteration has raised serious concerns among consumers.
Legal Action Initiated Against Accused
Following the raid, authorities have initiated strict legal action against the accused under food safety and fraud laws. Investigators are also examining whether the fake paneer was supplied to other cities or states.
Officials say the case highlights the growing problem of food adulteration and the need for stronger monitoring of food production units.
Consumers have been advised to buy dairy products only from trusted sources and check food safety certifications before purchasing.
