Surat authorities has bust the fake paneer racket. They seized about 1,400 kilograms of contaminated paneer and filed the case against owner. Lab tests verified that the seized paneer was substandard, made with industrial-grade acid and vegetable oil rather than milk fat. It raise serious health concerns for public.
Illegal Manufacturing Unit Busted in Surat
The Surat Special Operations Group (SOG) and food safety officials conducted a raid in the Pandesara area in early March. They seized approximately 1,400 kg of loose paneer from an illegal manufacturing unit.
Authorities also confiscated machinery, palm oil, acetic acid, packaging materials, and other equipment used in the process. The total value of the seized goods and equipment was estimated at around ₹28 lakh.
Investigators found that the unit had allegedly been operating for nearly two years, producing about 400 kg of fake paneer daily. The product was supplied to small dairies, restaurants, and street vendors throughout the city.
Lab Tests Confirm Adulteration
Samples of the seized paneer went to a public health laboratory, where tests confirmed that the product was substandard. Officials found very low milk fat content and detected high levels of beta-sitosterol, which suggested the presence of vegetable oil, particularly palm oil. The investigation also showed that industrial-grade acetic acid had been used in the manufacturing process instead of food-grade curdling agents.
Surat Officials warned that using chemical-grade acid in food products could pose serious health risks if consumed over time.
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