New Delhi, Dec. 19 -- Milk, paneer and khoya are more than just ingredients; they are essential components of daily life and central to Indian celebrations. However, recent nationwide raids by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) have exposed a shocking truth. Adulteration is widespread. Many dairy products are being contaminated with hazardous substances, including detergent powder, urea, starch, synthetic solids and vegetable fats.

While authorities are taking action, consumers must also protect themselves. Dietician Deepali Sharma, a Clinical Nutritionist at CK Birla Hospital, Delhi, says that learning to identify authentic products is key to making safer shopping decisions.

Sharma says that adulteration is always...