The seized product, known as cheese analogue, is a cheap and unhealthy substitute for genuine paneer. It is often made from a mixture of milk powder and palm oil and lacks the nutritional value of authentic milk-based paneer. According to the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), this product must be clearly labeled as an analogue. Selling it as real paneer is a violation of regulations and poses serious health risks, including potential food poisoning.

Officials warned that such food adulteration is on the rise, particularly as India approaches its festive season, when demand for dairy products, including paneer, increases significantly. To combat this issue, authorities are urging citizens to be vigilant, suggesting that they buy products from reputable stores and check labels carefully. Consumers are also advised to be aware of the difference in texture between real and fake paneer to avoid falling victim to such scams.

This incident provides a stark example for the international dairy community of the challenges and risks associated with food fraud. The illegal trade of fake products not only endangers public health but also undermines the integrity and economic stability of the entire agribusiness sector. Such seizures are a crucial form of data journalism, revealing the scale of a hidden problem and informing the public about critical safety measures.