Bhubaneswar, Aug 24: A major racket allegedly involved in the production and sale of adulterated chhena and paneer is operating in Odisha, Health Minister Mukesh Mahaling has said. He assured that the government will take strict action after discussing the matter with the Home Department.

The minister said raids and inspections will be intensified across the state in the coming days. Manufacturing units where paneer is produced will also come under the scanner.

Meanwhile, ahead of Raksha Bandhan, the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) Health Department has stepped up inspections against the sale of fake and adulterated chhena and paneer in the capital city.

Teams have conducted raids at several sweet shops across Bhubaneswar, including areas around CRP Square, to check whether paneer and other ingredients are being prepared or sold using chemicals and unhygienic methods.

Officials are collecting samples and checking the quality of chhena, paneer and other food products used in the preparation of sweets. Action will be taken as per law if substandard products or violations of food safety norms are detected.

With demand for sweets expected to rise during the festive season, authorities have intensified inspections to curb the circulation of adulterated chhena and paneer.

Health Minister Mukesh Mahaling said the government is committed to creating a safe and healthy food environment in Odisha, while the BMC has stressed strict action against traders who put consumers’ health at risk.