Punjab launches statewide Paneer crackdown after 68 milk samples fail quality tests
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, May 20, 2026 — The Punjab Government has intensified its drive against food adulteration by conducting a two-day statewide paneer sampling campaign across the state, during which 211 paneer samples were collected from dairies, processing units and retail outlets.
The special drive was carried out by the Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) Punjab under the directions of Health Minister Balbir Singh and the supervision of FDA Commissioner Kanwalpreet Brar.
According to the Health Minister, the paneer samples collected from both urban and rural areas have been sent to accredited state food laboratories to test for adulteration, contamination and compliance with food safety standards.
Dr Balbir Singh warned that strict legal action would be taken against any Food Business Operator found violating provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
The paneer sampling operation comes shortly after a statewide milk sampling drive conducted by FDA Punjab on May 6 and 7. Sharing the findings of that campaign, the Health Minister revealed that out of 204 milk samples collected across Punjab, 68 failed quality standards while one sample was declared unsafe.
The Punjab Government said the ongoing enforcement campaign aims to curb food adulteration and ensure safe dairy products for consumers across the state.
Dr Balbir Singh also appealed to citizens to remain alert and report suspected cases of food adulteration to authorities, stressing that public participation is crucial in maintaining food safety.
FDA Commissioner Kanwalpreet Brar stated that Food Safety Officers are not only conducting inspections and enforcing regulations but are also educating food business operators about hygienic handling and proper storage practices.
The Health Department said similar inspection and sampling drives will continue in the coming weeks as part of the government’s mission to ensure a “Healthy and Rangla Punjab.”