Campaign against ‘adulterated’ paneer launched in Vadodara

Members of the association gathered in the presence of Rokadia seeking support in cracking down on the business of adulterated cottage cheese. Association president Preethi Unnithan said, “The demand for cottage cheese in Vadodara is about 10,000 kg per day… Of this, the association sells about 4,000 kg of pure cottage cheese per day. The rest of the demand is met by adulterated paneer that arrives from Maharashtra, Rajasthan and even parts of Gujarat like Bhavnagar and others places.”

“Early morning, adulterated paneer is transported to the city by labourers travelling in trains and buses. Most of the restaurants and eateries purchase such adulterated cottage cheese, as it is sold at about Rs 200 per kg. But pure cottage cheese cannot be sold for under Rs 300,” she added.

Unnithan further said that dairy manufacturers and traders of Vadodara are “equipped” to handle the demand. “We are seeking the support of the government to crack down on this illegal trade… People eat at restaurants, risking their health. Adulterated paneer is manufactured with unhealthy oil… We are also preparing to approach the government to classify paneer in three categories – lean, medium and full fat (malai) – as those required by restaurants is medium fat paneer… it will also be cheaper.” Rokadia said, “I have assured them that we will put forth their concern before the government. We will take steps to ensure that this trade of manufacturing and selling adulterated paneer is dealt with.”