754 kg adulterated paneer seized from Surat dairy owner, booked after sample fails test

A dairy owner in Surat was booked after a paneer sample failed quality checks. Food and Drugs Control Administration (FDCA) officials collected samples from Surabhi Dairy, which did not meet required standards. Based on the report, the SOG registered an FIR at Khatodara Police Station against the dairy owner.

During the operation, police seized 754 kg of adulterated paneer, which was allegedly being supplied to local hotels and roadside stalls at cheaper rates.

Investigators said two dairy operators were involved. Shailesh Patel has been arrested, while the second owner, Kaushik Patel, is absconding after sensing police action. Police said the case has been registered for endangering public health and selling adulterated products as genuine.

The investigation revealed that the dairy produced nearly 1,000 kg of fake paneer daily, posing a potential health risk. Police have also detailed the method used to make the adulterated product—mixing limited milk with vanaspati ghee, palmolein oil, and milk powder before heating and curdling it using glacial acetic acid.

Real paneer is soft, spongy, and has a natural milk aroma and taste. When pressed, it feels gentle and breaks smoothly without stretching. Fake or adulterated paneer, on the other hand, often feels firm or rubbery when pressed. Its taste or smell may include hints of ingredients other than milk.