Fake paneer alert: Why it's trending and how to spot the dairy imposter!

Paneer, the creamy delight that elevates every curry, kebab, and sandwich, is facing a full-blown identity crisis! The market is now flooded with fake paneer, also called "analogue paneer," made from synthetic ingredients like vegetable oil, starch, and non-dairy substitutes. And it’s not just paneer—other dairy products like milk, ghee, and butter are also getting an imposter makeover.

So how do you make sure you’re not munching on a science experiment? Read on to become a dairy detective!

How to spot fake paneer (before it lands on your plate!)

• The iodine tincture test: Boil a small piece of paneer and let it cool. Add a few drops of iodine tincture. If it turns blue, that means starch is present—FAKE ALERT!
• The texture test: Real paneer is soft and slightly crumbly. Fake paneer feels rubbery, firm, and unnaturally smooth.
• The smell check: Real paneer has a fresh, slightly milky aroma. Fake paneer often has a stale, greasy, or even chemical-like smell.
• The water test: Drop a cube of paneer in hot water. Real paneer remains intact, while fake paneer may start dissolving or turning slimy.
• The fry test: If you fry real paneer, it stays firm. Fake paneer can melt or break apart due to the presence of starch and oil.

Fake dairy: It’s not just paneer!

Milk
Many milk brands use synthetic milk, which contains detergent, starch, or even shampoo (yes, you read that right!).

How to check? Add a few drops of iodine solution to milk. If it turns blue, it contains starch and is fake.

Butter & ghee
Adulterated ghee often contains vanaspati (hydrogenated fat), which is harmful to health.

How to check? Take a spoonful of ghee and place it in your palm. If it melts naturally in a few seconds, it's pure. If it stays solid or greasy, it’s fake.

Cheese & curd
ake cheese and curd may have added starch, making them extra sticky or slimy.

How to check? Dissolve a small amount in water and add iodine. If it turns blue, it’s not the real deal.

FSSAI cracks down on dairy fraud
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has been tightening the screws on dairy adulteration. In March 2025, FSSAI directed state authorities to ramp up inspections, especially during festive seasons when fake dairy products flood the market.

In another bold move, FSSAI banned misleading labels like ‘A1’ and ‘A2’ milk in August 2024, citing the lack of scientific backing.

Adding to this, the keywords FSSAI has been listed on top of Google Trends as consumers grow more aware and concerned about food safety regulations. This surge in online interest highlights the public’s increasing demand for stricter quality control in the dairy industry.

Be a smart dairy shopper
With fake dairy lurking in the market, it’s time to stay alert. Buy paneer and dairy products only from trusted brands or local vendors with a good reputation. When in doubt, run these simple tests to ensure you’re getting the real, creamy, nutritious goodness you deserve!

Stay sharp, stay safe, and may your paneer always be pure!