Bihar's Fake Paneer Scam Exposes Dairy Safety Concerns in India

A substantial fake paneer racket has been uncovered in Bihar, where genuine paneer, typically priced at ₹400 per kilogram, was being sold for as low as ₹80 per kilogram. This operation has raised significant food safety and consumer protection concerns across various supply chains, including wholesalers, street vendors, and caterers.

The racket reportedly functions on an industrial scale, with agents claiming the ability to supply up to 12,000 kilograms of paneer within three hours to food businesses across multiple states. The unusually low price of the paneer, significantly below that of genuine milk-based products, prompted local food safety authorities to initiate investigations.

Fake or analogue paneer is often manufactured using a blend of starches, palm or vegetable oils, milk powder, and chemical whiteners. These substitutes mimic the appearance of cottage cheese while drastically reducing production costs. However, food safety experts warn that these products are nutritionally inferior and can pose health risks if consumed regularly.

In response, food safety departments across India have intensified their efforts to curb similar operations. They have seized adulterated dairy products, including paneer and milk, as part of ongoing enforcement actions. These widespread raids reveal that fake paneer and other adulterated dairy items continue to penetrate markets due to weak regulatory frameworks and consumer demand for cheaper products.

The situation in Bihar highlights broader challenges for public health and the integrity of the dairy sector. Counterfeit paneer not only deceives consumers financially but also threatens trust in the dairy supply chain. There are calls for enhanced food safety monitoring, traceability, and enforcement to protect consumers and maintain standards in both local and inter-state dairy markets.