A recent food safety investigation in Noida and Greater Noida has revealed alarming levels of adulteration in paneer. A significant 83% of paneer samples failed quality standards, with 40% deemed unsafe due to the presence of harmful chemicals and unidentified substances. Milk also showed considerable adulteration, while ghee had a notable failure rate, raising concerns about food safety.
Paneer is a rich source of protein, and for vegetarians, it is often considered one of the best sources of protein to meet the daily requirement. Lately, this source of protein has been under the radar of food safety agencies due to excessive adulteration in the market. And as per the latest reports, a food sample test of 702 items in Noida and Greater Noida revealed that paneer is the most adulterated product, with 83% of the samples failing quality standards. As per a TOI report, of 83 paneer samples, 40% were declared unsafe for consumption, followed by grain-based products, with 36 out of 79 samples failing tests and three were deemed unsafe between April 2024 and March 2025 in 2721 inspections and 520 raids that were carried out across both cities.
The news report says that the food department took 122 samples of paneer, of which reports of 83 have been received so far and a staggering 83% of these paneer samples failed to meet quality standards, while 40%were found to be unsafe for consumption, as they contained harmful chemicals and unidentified liquid substances.
During the investigation, it was also revealed that milk ranked at second position in terms of adulteration, with 19 of 43 samples found either substandard or unsafe. Ghee had a failure rate of 38% while butter was the only product that showed no signs of adulteration.
Most common adulterants used in paneer
Starch: It is added in the form of arrowroot or maida, and it helps increase bulk and firmness and can lower nutritional value and cause digestive issues, especially in sensitive individuals
Detergents or Synthetic Milk:Â These are added in making low-quality or fake paneer and can cause stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, and long-term organ damage.
Urea or Caustic Soda: This is commonly found in synthetic milk, which may be used to prepare adulterated paneer. They are highly toxic and can affect kidneys and liver.
Excessive Preservatives or Formalin: This is used to increase the shelf life of paneer, especially during summer months and can cause cancer, liver damage, or allergic reactionsMilk Powder or Reconstituted Milk Solids: These are used instead of fresh milk and reduce freshness and natural nutrition of paneer.
