Experts Share Tips to Identify Fake Paneer Sold in Market.

Paneer is an essential component in many cuisines because of its flavorful and adaptable qualities.

A man from Gurugram recently accused Zomato of selling “fake paneer” to eateries via its business-to-business network, Zomato Hyperpure.

The product was Labelled on the website as “Analogue Paneer,” which is “fit for tikka and gravy paneer dishes.”

Shlloka Joshii, a lifestyle expert and instructor of classical hatha yoga, explained how synthetic paneer is manufactured, saying that vendors use water, lime, starch, and milk powder to make it.

To give it that deliciously creamy appearance and color, some people even add detergent and palm oil.

You are not alone if you frequently find yourself answering inquiries concerning its quality and validity. It takes an acute sense of taste, smell, and sight to distinguish real paneer from fake.

You can tell the difference between the two with confidence by evaluating its texture, color, taste, smell, ingredient list, and source.

How to identify paneer is ‘real’ or ‘fake’

The texture of real paneer is solid but somewhat crumbly. It should retain its shape when gently pressed between your fingers, but yet give slightly, according to dietitian and certified diabetes educator Dr. Archana Batra.

Conversely, fake paneer is typically too mushy or rubbery. Therefore, it could be time to doubt the legitimacy of your paneer if it crumbles at the least touch or feels like a stress ball, Dr. Batra advised.

Dr. Batra claims that authentic paneer usually has a smooth, white color similar to that of fresh milk.

“If you notice any unnaturally bright or stark colours, it could signify artificial additives or food colouring. Authentic paneer derives its colour solely from the milk used in its preparation,” said Dr Batra.

Content creator Dr Vinod Sharma shared the following on his Instagram

• If it easily breaks into rubble, it is fake
• Real paneer is soft, whereas fake one is hard, like rubber
• Boil paneer in water along with soybean powder. If the colour changes, then it is fake
• Boil paneer in water and add a tincture of iodine. If the colour of the paneer changes to blue, then it is fake.

What else to keep in mind?

Examining the labels can reveal important information about the paneer’s authenticity. Look for any unknown preservatives or additions in the ingredients list.

The only ingredients of authentic paneer are usually milk and an acidic curdling agent, such as vinegar or lemon juice.“Avoid products with lengthy ingredient lists laden with artificial additives,” said Dr Batra.

Lastly, consider the source. Opt for paneer from reputable producers or authentic Indian markets known for their quality dairy products.

This year, in April, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) found 47 paneer and khoya products to be contaminated in Noida.

In May, authorities seized 1,300 kg of fake paneer from two diaries in Nabha subdivision of Patiala district.

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