Owing to its rich taste and versatility, paneer is a staple in many cuisines. Whether fried, grilled, or crumbled, cottage cheese adds a delightful flavour to any meal. It is one of the most popular vegetarian protein sources, loved and enjoyed by adults and children. But can you tell if the paneer you are consuming is adulterated? Given the rise of synthetic paneer, it is essential to be able to identify it. Elucidating on how synthetic paneer is made, Shlloka Joshii, classical hatha yoga teacher and lifestyle expert, said, "Vendors are found to infuse milk powder, water, lime, and starch to manufacture paneer. Some even add palm oil and detergent to give it that appetising creamy look and colour." If you often find yourself fielding questions about its authenticity and quality, you are not alone. Identifying authentic paneer from fake requires a keen eye, nose, and palate. By assessing its texture, colour, smell, taste, ingredient list, and source, you can confidently distinguish between the two. How to go about it? Texture speaks volumes when it comes to paneer. "Authentic paneer has a firm yet slightly crumbly texture. When you press it gently between your fingers, it should hold its shape but still yield slightly," said Dr Archana Batra, dietician, and a certified diabetes educator. "Fake paneer, on the other hand, tends to be overly rubbery or mushy. So, if your paneer feels like a stress ball or collapses at the slightest touch, it might be time to question its authenticity," cautioned Dr Batra. Colour can also offer valuable clues. According to Dr Batra, genuine paneer typically boasts a creamy white hue akin to fresh milk. "If you notice any unnaturally bright or stark colours, it could signify artificial additives or food colouring. Authentic paneer derives its colour solely from the milk used in its preparation," said Dr Batra. Smell plays a significant role in discerning authentic paneer from its counterfeit counterpart. True paneer exudes a subtle, milky fragrance with a hint of tanginess. "If your paneer smells off or overly pungent, it might be a red flag indicating spoilage or dubious ingredients," said Dr Batra. Taste, of course, is the ultimate litmus test. Authentic paneer offers a delicate, milky flavour with a subtle tanginess that enhances savoury dishes and desserts. "Fake paneer, however, often lacks depth of flavour or may exhibit unusual tastes due to additives or inferior ingredients. Trust your taste buds if something seems amiss; it probably is," said Dr Batra. Content creator Dr Vinod Sharma shared the following on his Instagram *If it easily breaks into rubble, it is fake *Real paneer is soft, whereas fake one is hard, like rubber *Boil paneer in water along with soybean powder. If the colour changes, then it is fake *Boil paneer in water and add a tincture of iodine. If the colour of the paneer changes to blue, then it is fake Joshii explained that the boiling test with iodine can determine its purity. "If paneer starts changing its colour, then it is adulterated and contains starch," said Joshii. Explaining the dissolve test, Joshii said to immerse a small piece of paneer in a bowl of lukewarm water. "If the paneer is pure, it will not dissolve completely. If the paneer dissolves or disintegrates in water, it may contain additives or other substances," said Joshii. Dr Batra shared that boiling paneer with soybean powder to detect urea indicated by a colour change is another test that can be undertaken. What else to keep in mind? Label scrutiny can provide valuable insights into the authenticity of paneer. Check the ingredients list for any unfamiliar additives or preservatives. Authentic paneer typically contains only milk and an acidic agent like lemon juice or vinegar for curdling. "Avoid products with lengthy ingredient lists laden with artificial additives," said Dr Batra. Lastly, consider the source. Opt for paneer from reputable producers or authentic Indian markets known for their quality dairy products. "Local, artisanal producers often take pride in their craftsmanship, ensuring a superior product compared to mass-produced alternatives," shared Dr Batra. DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
