In bustling markets and stores aisles across the country, Paneer that beloved Indian cottage cheese, sites innocently in gleaming white blocks. To the unsuspected eye, it looks like the rich in protein packed delicacy used in everything from SHAHII Paneer to PALAK Paneer, but hidden among these blocks is a dangerous description: FAKE PANEER, a rising threat to public health and food integrity. But what's the difference between real and a fake one, let's check out:REAL PANEER Real Paneer is made up by curdling milk with food acids like lemon juice, Vinegar or citric acid. The process is simply ,ancient and rooted in households across South Asia.. Real paneer is soft, grainy, nutritious cheese and rich in protein, calcium and FAT SOLUBLE VITAMINS. FAKE PANEER however, is a toxic counterfeit — often concocted from ingredients like starch, detergent, caustic soda, refined flour (maida), urea, or synthetic milk. In worst cases, industrial waste or white paint (yes, paint) is added to create the deceptive whiteness and texture of real paneer. It may look identical, but its consequences can be devastating. Fake paneer is not just adulteration, it’s poisoning. It causes may health issues like-digestive disorder, liver and kidney damage, endocrine disruption etc. It is common in business world because, one word for this is "PROFIT ". HOW TO DETECT THE FAKE PANEER, let's check outSmell test: Fake paneer may have a chemical or detergent-like smell. Touch test: Real paneer is soft and spongy. Fake paneer feels rubbery or slimy. Heat test: Heat a piece. Real paneer melts and browns; fake paneer often hardens or releases oil unnaturally. Iodine test: Apply iodine solution — a color change to blue indicates the presence of starch. What Can Be Done? The onus is on both consumers and regulators: Buy from trusted sources: Choose local dairies with a reputation or make paneer at home. Demand testing and transparency: Push for food safety inspections and certifications at the retail level. Raise awareness: Most people don’t know fake paneer exists. Spread the word — this is a public health emergency, not a food issue. Strict penalties: Food adulteration must be punished with fines and imprisonment, not leniency. What we eat defines not just our culture, but our health and future. The fight between real and fake paneer is more than culinary — it’s a battle for trust, safety, and accountability. Next time you pick up a block of paneer, ask yourself: Is it real? Or is it a chemical trap in disguise, because one bite could be the difference between nourishment and harm.