Pratik S
The controversy surrounding Gauri Khan’s Mumbai restaurant, Torii, has taken the internet by storm. It all began when influencer Sarthak Sachdeva posted a viral video claiming that the paneer served at Torii failed the iodine test, sparking allegations of food adulteration.
While the restaurant swiftly denied the claims, the video gained over five million views before being taken down. The incident led to widespread discussions about food safety, influencer accountability, and the reliability of the iodine test.
Gaurav Taneja‘s Response
YouTuber Gaurav Taneja, also known as The Flying Beast, weighed in on the controversy, stating that the iodine test is not a reliable method for detecting fake paneer. In a detailed video, Taneja explained that 99% of fake paneer can pass the iodine test because the test only detects starch, not the overall purity of the paneer.
> “You must’ve noticed that every influencer nowadays is carrying iodine with them wherever they go. But the truth is that you can’t test the purity of paneer with iodine. I’ve worked in this industry, that’s not how things are done,” Taneja said.
How Fake Paneer Is Made
Taneja further elaborated on how low-quality paneer is produced. He explained that manufacturers often remove fat from milk to make cream and ghee. The leftover milk, now devoid of fat, is then reintroduced with vegetable or palm oil to restore its texture. Since this altered milk contains no starch, it does not react to iodine, making the test ineffective.
Torii’s Official Statement
Following the backlash, Torii released an official statement, clarifying that the iodine test only detects starch and does not determine the authenticity of paneer. The restaurant explained that their dish contained soy-based ingredients, which naturally triggered the iodine reaction.
> “The iodine test reflects the presence of starch, not the authenticity of the paneer. As the dish contains soy-based ingredients, this reaction is expected. We stand by the purity of our paneer and the integrity of our ingredients at Torii,” the restaurant stated.
Science experiments aren’t food audits. The iodine test detects starch, not fake paneer. A color change doesn't always mean it's inedible or unauthentic.
— Deepta Nagpal (@DeeptaNagpal) April 18, 2025
Paneer dishes may have added starch for texture or from coatings. Food safety needs more than viral videos and half-baked… https://t.co/7cQR76gett
Social Media Reactions
The controversy has sparked mixed reactions online. While some users supported the influencer’s efforts to expose food adulteration, others criticized the misuse of the iodine test and the spread of misinformation.
- “Food safety is important, but influencers need to use proper testing methods before making accusations.”
- “Gaurav Taneja makes a valid point. The iodine test only detects starch, not purity.”
- “Torii’s response makes sense. Soy-based ingredients can cause the iodine reaction.”
The Bigger Picture
This incident highlights the need for proper food testing methods and responsible influencer content. While food safety concerns are valid, viral trends should not replace scientific testing and regulatory standards.
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The fake paneer controversy surrounding Gauri Khan’s restaurant has opened up discussions about food quality, influencer accountability, and misinformation. As experts like Gaurav Taneja have pointed out, the iodine test is not a foolproof method for detecting adulteration. Moving forward, consumers and influencers alike must rely on scientific testing and verified sources to ensure food safety.
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