Kataka officials seize 7,000 kg of adulterated paneer in Odisha raids

Health officials from the Cuttack Municipal Corporation (CMC) have conducted major raids in Kataka, Odisha, seizing approximately 7,000 kg of adulterated paneer. The crackdown, which occurred within a 48-hour period, targeted seven vehicles transporting the product, including an auto-rickshaw, before it could reach local hotels, markets, and eateries.

On-site iodine testing revealed that only 30 kg of the seized stock was fit for consumption. The remaining volume turned black during testing, indicating heavy contamination with starch, refined wheat flour (maida), and other synthetic agents used to artificially increase volume and reduce production costs. Officials reported that some high-end hotels were allegedly using products containing only 40 percent pure milk.

The adulterated goods were reportedly sourced from the Niali area. Following the seizure, the CMC destroyed the unfit stock and sent samples to state laboratories for detailed chemical analysis. This follows a previous operation on Tuesday where two hotels were sealed due to the presence of adulterated paneer, expired curd, and poor hygiene standards. CMC officials have notified the Chief District Medical Officer and district health authorities to pursue further action against the manufacturing and distribution networks.