5 tips to decode whether your store bought paneer is synthetic or pure

A new threat threatens paneer, the soft Indian cheese that’s valued for its flexibility in curries and desserts. These goods, dubbed “fake paneer,” are becoming more and more prevalent in the culinary industry. They may be unhealthy and frequently contain subpar ingredients.

The government is acting to address this problem. Out of 168 food items evaluated by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), reports from Noida in early April revealed that 47 goods related to paneer and khoya were contaminated.

How can one learn to tell the difference between real and phony paneer? Deepali Sharma, a professional nutritionist at the CK Birla Hospital in Delhi, suggests that you begin by looking at its texture and appearance:’

1. Texture: Synthetic paneer frequently looks rubbery or unduly smooth, but genuine paneer should be soft and break easily.
2. Smell: Real paneer smells mild and milky, however fraudulent paneer may not smell at all or may smell artificial.
3. Taste: Another clue to authenticity is taste; genuine paneer has a clear, creamy flavor, whereas imitations may taste manufactured.
4. Moisture content: Synthetic paneer is usually dryer, while genuine paneer releases whey when pressed and has a higher moisture content.
5. Cooking tactic: While imitation paneer may melt, become rubbery, or crumble, real paneer browns and keeps its structure during cooking.

“Finally, ensure you purchase paneer from trusted sources or reputable brands, checking for quality certifications or safety marks on the packaging to avoid synthetic products,” Sharma recommended as a word of caution.

What dangers does eating imitation paneer pose to the health?

According to Sharma, eating artificial paneer might cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and upset stomach.

Sharma went on to say that prolonged ingestion may also have an adverse effect on your liver and kidneys. This is because artificial paneer may contain dangerous chemicals and milk powder, both of which can be detrimental to your heart health.