Jammu: In a major crackdown, Police Station Bus Stand, Jammu, seized approximately 300 kilograms of fake paneer last week. Acting swiftly on specific inputs, the police intercepted the consignment and immediately informed the Food Safety Department. A team associated with the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) conducted on-spot sampling and laboratory testing — confirming that the paneer was indeed adulterated and unsafe for human consumption.
This is not the first such seizure by Bus Stand Police. Earlier also, fake dairy products were intercepted in the same jurisdiction, reflecting consistent vigilance and commendable policing.
Police Doing Their Job — But What About FSSAI?
While the police have demonstrated proactive enforcement, public sentiment now turns toward FSSAI. Food safety is not just reactive enforcement — it demands preventive regulation, market surveillance, and public awareness.
With the wedding season in full swing, paneer consumption surges across:
- Banquet halls
- Large restaurants
- Local shops
- Caterers
- Street vendors
Paneer is considered one of the best protein sources, especially for:
- Children
- Fitness enthusiasts
- Gym-going youth
However, repeated news of fake paneer has created a climate of fear and distrust among consumers.
Growing Public Concerns
- How long will this adulteration chain continue?
- Why are routine checks not conducted weekly?
- Where is the preventive surveillance mechanism?
- Why are awareness camps not being organized on a regular basis?
Parents are worried. Gym-goers are avoiding paneer. Consumers are questioning the safety of dairy products in the market.
What Needs Immediate Action from FSSAI
Experts and citizens demand:
✔ Weekly market inspections and surprise raids
✔ Routine sampling in restaurants and shops
✔ Strict legal action against the entire adulteration chain
✔ Identification and blacklisting of repeat offenders
✔ Regular public awareness camps
✔ Public disclosure of test results
✔ Strong coordination with local police
If police can repeatedly intercept such consignments, it raises a serious question: Why is preventive regulatory enforcement lagging?
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Health at Stake
Fake paneer is not just food fraud — it is a direct attack on public health. Consumption of adulterated dairy products can lead to:
- Food poisoning
- Gastrointestinal infections
- Long-term organ damage
The responsibility does not end with seizure and testing. The supply chain must be dismantled completely.
The Bigger Question
Is food safety being treated as a priority during peak consumption seasons?
The police have shown that action is possible. Now the public expects the same urgency, transparency, and accountability from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India.
Food safety cannot wait. Public health cannot be compromised. Immediate and sustained action is the need of the hour.
