Real vs Fake Paneer: 7 ways to identify purity

Smell Test – Real paneer has a fresh, milky aroma, while fake paneer may have a sour or chemical-like smell.

Texture Check – Genuine paneer is soft, slightly grainy, and breaks easily, whereas fake paneer is excessively rubbery or hard.

Water Test – Drop a piece of paneer in boiling water. Real paneer remains intact, while fake paneer may dissolve or become slimy.

Oil Test – When fried, real paneer turns light brown, while fake paneer may not change color or release excess oil.

Iodine Test – Add a few drops of iodine solution; if it turns blue, the paneer contains starch, indicating adulteration.

Taste Test – Real paneer has a slightly sweet, creamy taste, while fake paneer may taste chalky or bitter.

Press Test – Squeeze the paneer; real paneer releases some moisture and crumbles slightly, while fake paneer stays stiff.

Credit: NASA