Authorities in Gujarat’s Surat city have busted a large-scale illegal paneer manufacturing unit in the Pandesara area, seizing over 1,400 kilograms of counterfeit cottage cheese made using hazardous chemicals. The operation, carried out jointly by the Surat City Special Operations Group (SOG) and the Food Department, has raised serious concerns about food safety and public health.
During the raid at a facility located in Bhidbhanjan Society, officials discovered that paneer was being produced using industrial acids and palmolein oil instead of standard food-grade ingredients. The manufacturing process was found to be highly unhygienic and in clear violation of food safety norms. Authorities recovered approximately 1,401 kilograms of paneer stored in unsanitary conditions, along with chemicals, oil containers, and machinery used in production.
The total value of the seized goods and equipment is estimated at ₹28.44 lakh, indicating a well-organised operation. Laboratory tests later confirmed that the paneer was substandard and unfit for consumption. Officials warned that such products pose a direct threat to public health, as they fail to meet established safety and quality benchmarks.
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Investigations revealed that the illegal unit had been operating for nearly two years, producing around 400 kilograms of fake paneer daily. The product was reportedly supplied across Surat to local markets, hotels, roadside eateries, and street vendors, exposing thousands of consumers to potentially harmful food items on a regular basis. Authorities believe the racket had an extensive distribution network across the city.
Police have registered an FIR at Pandesara Police Station against the prime accused, identified as Mahesh Kumar Sharma, who is alleged to have run the operation for significant financial gain. Officials also found that the unit was operating under a license issued in Maharashtra, despite carrying out its activities entirely in Gujarat, suggesting regulatory violations and misuse of licensing provisions.
Medical experts have warned that paneer made with industrial chemicals can lead to serious health complications, including food poisoning, gastrointestinal infections, and damage to vital organs such as the liver and kidneys. In response, authorities have stepped up enforcement under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, mandating stricter inspections, clearer labelling, and action against misleading practices. The incident has highlighted broader concerns about regulatory oversight and the need for increased vigilance to prevent such public health risks.
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