Surat: The sample of paneer collected from Surbhi Dairy, located in Sorathia Compound in Khatodara, by the Food Safety Officers of the Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC) on November 7 has been found to be of substandard quality, the SMC stated on Monday.

During the inspection on November 7, SMC officials found that paneer was being sold at the premises. The owner, Shaileshbhai Chhaganbhai Patel, was not present at the time, while Omprakash Pappulal Mahor was found working as a salesman. A total of 955 kg of paneer was seized from the multiple premises linked to the dairy.

A sample of the paneer was collected and sent to the Public Health Laboratory of SMC for analysis as per the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. The laboratory report stated that the sample did not meet statutory standards, with the milk fat content lower than the prescribed limit.

Officials noted that if paneer or cheese is made using starch or vegetable fat instead of milk, it can pose several health risks, including:

Digestive issues: Starch and added substances may cause gas, indigestion, and other gastric problems. They can disrupt natural gut microbes, weaken immunity, and increase the risk of digestive disorders.

Nutritional deficiency: Paneer made from starch or vegetable fat lacks essential protein and calcium, potentially leading to long-term deficiencies.

In view of the violation, SMC officials said a complaint will be filed before the Adjudicating Officer, Surat, against the concerned institution and responsible individuals. DeshGujarat