7 Quick Ways to Spot Fake Paneer at Home

Paneer, a traditional Indian cheese, is a versatile ingredient loved for its use in curries, desserts, and various dishes. However, the prevalence of fake paneer products in the market has raised concerns about substandard ingredients and potential health hazards. Recent reports have identified contaminated paneer being sold in India, with authorities seizing large quantities of counterfeit paneer and exposing associated health risks.

Thankfully, there are simple and effective methods to differentiate authentic paneer from fake variants. Clinical nutritionist Shailja Sharmain Delhi offers valuable guidance in identifying genuine paneer.

How to Check Fake ‘Paneer’ At Home

The Iodine Test

One effective method involves boiling the paneer and adding a few drops of iodine tincture. If the paneer turns blue, it's likely artificial. Genuine paneer will retain its original colour.

The Dal Test

Another simple test involves cooling boiled paneer in water and adding toor dal. After 10 minutes, if the water turns light red, it may indicate contamination. No colour change suggests the paneer is pure.

Texture Test

Authentic paneer should be soft and crumbly, unlike the rubbery or overly smooth texture of synthetic versions.

Aroma Test

Genuine paneer has a mild, milky scent, while fake paneer might lack this or have a chemical odour.

Taste Test

Real paneer offers a clean, milky flavour, contrasting with the artificial taste of synthetic versions.

Moisture Content Test

True paneer typically releases whey when pressed, a characteristic often absent in fake products.

Cooking Behaviour Test

During cooking, genuine paneer browns and maintains its shape, while fake paneer might become rubbery or disintegrate.

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Fake Paneer Health Risks

Sharma warns that synthetic paneer can cause immediate symptoms like stomach upset, diarrhoea, vomiting, and nausea. More alarmingly, long-term consumption may impact liver and kidney function. The presence of harmful chemicals and milk powder in fake paneer can also pose risks to heart health.

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