Noida, June 30, 2025 — In a late-night sting, Noida police exposed a large-scale paneer adulteration network operating across Delhi-NCR, seizing over 14 quintals of counterfeit paneer and arresting four individuals connected to an illegal manufacturing unit in Aligarh.
The interception occurred in Sector 63 when authorities, acting on a tip-off, halted a Mahindra pickup truck transporting unusually priced paneer blocks. Upon questioning, the driver, 32-year-old Gulfam of Shajapur village in Aligarh, disclosed the origin: an unlicensed production facility in Shajapur village.
Subsequent raids led to the arrest of three more individuals—Guddu alias Rish (36), believed to be the mastermind, and distributors Ikhlaq (30) and Naved (20). All are residents of Aligarh, and reportedly, the operation had been active for over six months, targeting street vendors and low-cost eateries with imitation paneer sold at Rs 180–220/kg, less than half the rate of genuine dairy paneer.
Toxic Production Methods Raise Health Alarms
Investigators revealed two primary adulteration techniques:
- Starch and Chemical Recipe: Agricultural-grade “Red Bull Sortex Clean” beans were boiled, mixed with industrial whiteners, poster colours, and an unidentified blue chemical to mimic curdled milk.
- Milk Powder & Palmolin Formula: A cheaper variant involved blending milk powder with palm oil and chemical agents to create the texture and visual appeal of authentic paneer.
Both versions were moulded into blocks and packaged to resemble legitimate dairy products.
Public Health at Risk, Legal Action Underway
Officials from the Food Safety Department confirmed the adulterants used—including poster paint and industrial oils—are hazardous to human health. Samples have been dispatched for comprehensive lab testing, and prosecutions are expected under the Food Safety and Standards Act.
A formal case has been registered at Sector 63 police station under Sections 274, 275, and 318(4) of the Indian Penal Code. Authorities are now working to dismantle the broader supply chain and identify all end-point vendors.
Consumer Safety Advisory: Spotting the Fakes
Authorities urge consumers to perform a simple iodine tincture test at home. A black colouration on application indicates the presence of starch, a telltale sign of fake paneer. Authentic paneer shows no such reaction.
Police footage from the busted facility shows stacks of raw powders, industrial drums of palm oil, and paneer molds—highlighting the scale and sophistication of this illicit operation.
This latest incident adds to growing fears over milk adulteration in India. It highlights the need for stricter surveillance, more rigorous enforcement, and heightened consumer awareness throughout the Indian dairy industry.
