Punjab Intensifies Crackdown on Food Adulteration: 211 Paneer Samples Collected After Statewide Drive

In a continuous effort to ensure the availability of safe and high-quality food products, Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) Punjab has carried out an extensive two-day long statewide Paneer sampling drive. The drive, which was carried out on Monday and Tuesday under the directions of Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr Balbir Singh and supervision of Commissioner FDA Punjab Kanwalpreet Brar, targeted various points across the dairy supply chain. Dr Balbir Singh informed that local dairies were checked throughout the state, leading to the collection of 211 paneer samples from dairies, processing units and retail outlets in both urban and rural sectors. The collected samples have been sent to accredited State Food laboratory for analysis to detect any type of adulteration, contamination, and compliance with prescribed standards, said the Health Minister, while issuing stern warning, “Any Food Business Operator (FBO) found violating the norms will face strict legal action as per the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.” Dr Balbir Singh also appealed to the public to remain vigilant and act as partners in this mission by reporting any suspected cases of food adulteration to the concerned authorities. Pertinently, the Paneer Sampling drive came close on the heels of FDA Punjab carried out an extensive two-day long statewide milk sampling drive on May 6 and 7, 2026. Sharing outcomes of the Milk Sampling Drive, the Health Minister stated that out of total 204 milk samples collected, 68 samples failed on quality standards, while, one sample was found to be unsafe. Reiterating the commitment of Punjab Government to safeguard public health by eliminating adulterated milk from the supply chain, the Health Minister assured the people of Punjab that this sampling drive is part of an ongoing, strengthened enforcement campaign that will continue in the coming weeks to ensure a "Healthy and Rangla Punjab.” Emphasising the department's commitment to vigilance, Commissioner FDA Kanwal Preet Brar, IAS noted that the Food Safety Officers (FSOs) are not only enforcing the law but also sensitizing Food Business operators about hygienic handling and proper storage practices. She stressed that maintaining high standards in the dairy sector is non-negotiable for the well-being of the citizens.