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Is Your Paneer Fake? Concerns Raised Over Synthetic Paneer in Indian Restaurants

A recent video by influencer Sarthak Sachdeva has ignited a heated discussion about the authenticity of paneer served in Indian restaurants. The video alleges that Gauri Khan’s Mumbai restaurant, Torii, served “fake paneer,” a claim the restaurant denies. This incident has brought the issue of synthetic paneer, also known as analogue paneer, to the forefront, raising concerns about what many Indians are unknowingly consuming.

What is Fake Paneer?

Fake paneer, or analogue paneer, is often made using milk solids other than actual cheese curds, mixed with starch, emulsifiers, and other additives to mimic the texture and appearance of traditional paneer. While not necessarily harmful, the nutritional value and taste differ significantly from real paneer.

Why the Concern?

The primary concern lies in transparency and consumer awareness. Many consumers are unknowingly paying a premium price for a product that is not genuine paneer. Additionally, the long-term health implications of regularly consuming synthetic paneer are still being investigated.

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