Overview

• YouTuber Sarthak Sachdeva’s iodine test video accused Torii, Gauri Khan’s Mumbai restaurant, of serving fake paneer, garnering over 6 million views before being removed.
• Torii clarified that the iodine reaction was due to naturally occurring starch in soy-based ingredients, affirming the purity of their paneer.
• Chef Vikas Khanna criticized the misinformation, explaining that iodine reacts with starches found in common kitchen staples and highlighting risks of viral unverified claims.
• Health experts warned about genuine dangers of synthetic paneer, which can contain toxic chemicals like urea and caustic soda, posing long-term health risks.
• Nutritionists recommended DIY tests, such as hot water, iodine, and label checks, to help consumers identify authentic paneer and avoid adulterated products.