Cuttack, August 20: More than one quintal of adulterated paneer has been seized in Cuttack, raising serious concerns over food safety. The paneer was recovered from a vehicle that had arrived in the Markat Nagar area for supply.

According to officials, tests found that the paneer was adulterated, with allegations that substances such as maida and other powders were being used to reduce production costs. Around 50–60 vehicles carrying paneer reportedly enter Cuttack every day, raising concerns about the scale of the problem.

Health experts have warned that regular consumption of adulterated food products can pose serious health risks. They have also advised consumers to be cautious while purchasing paneer, particularly when it is being sold at unusually low prices.

The State Dairy Products Manufacturers’ Association has demanded strict action against traders involved in food adulteration.

Meanwhile, in Gujarat’s Surat, a five-year-old girl reportedly died after consuming kaju-paneer ordered from a restaurant. Four other family members also fell seriously ill. Following the incident, food safety officials raided and sealed the restaurant.