YouTuber Mohak Mangal Shares McDonald’s Fake Paneer, Domino’s Passes Safety Test
Popular YouTuber and investigative video producer Mohak Mangal has brought grave questions on the validity of paneer used in McDonald’s India restaurants in a recent exposé that has gone viral on social media.
Mangal’s research using a mix of lab tests and home experimentation revealed that McDonald’s allegedly synthetic imitation paneer is not real dairy-based paneer. Domino’s paneer, on the other hand, passed every safety and authenticity test.
The Research
Renowned for his in-depth films on consumer and political concerns, Mohak Mangal posted a thorough YouTube movie outlining his investigation on the paneer used by big fast-food companies.
Mangal gathered paneer samples from both McDonald’s and Domino’s, worried by anecdotal accounts of food illness and inconsistent taste and texture. These samples were sent for a thorough investigation to an ISO-certified lab.
Results of a Lab Test
The test findings shockingly showed a difference between the two brands. McDonald’s paneer sample turned out to be an analogue—a synthetic product with the look and feel of paneer but without nutritional value.
Usually using hydrogenated fats, starches, and other non-dairy substances, this fake product mimics the feel of actual paneer.
Conversely, the Domino’s paneer satisfied all the criteria for freshness, protein count, and dairy source.
The lab verified Domino’s used real paneer derived from milk, free of synthetic additions or dangerous chemicals.
The Iodine Examining
Mangal conducted a basic iodine test at home—a commonly used technique to locate starch in food—to confirm the results even more. Iodine applied to starch renders the starch dark blue or black.
Mangal gave both paneer samples iodine drops. Domino’s paneer showed no response, but the McDonald’s sample darkened, indicating the presence of starch—a major ingredient in synthetic paneer.
This simple home experiment supported the results of the lab, therefore strengthening the case that McDonald’s might be substituting starch-based products for actual dairy paneer.
Health Effects of False Paneer
The revelation of fake paneer in a well-known fast-food company such as McDonald’s begs grave concerns over customer health and food safety.
Although less expensive to manufacture, an analogue paneer is often created using low-quality vegetable oils, starches, and chemicals.
Particularly when taken regularly, these components are more difficult to break down and could aggravate gastrointestinal problems, food poisoning, and long-term health hazards.
Artificial paneer should especially be avoided for consumers with poor digestion or those prone to food allergies since it may cause problems. Moreover, it mislead vegetarians and health-conscious people who deliberately search for dairy-based protein sources.
McDonald’s and Domino’s Reaction
McDonald’s India has not yet issued an official comment answering the claims made in the video.
The brand has sometimes promoted itself as following strict food safety guidelines, therefore this revelation could set off public reaction and governmental investigation.
Domino’s has got great comments online for keeping product authenticity since their paneer passed both lab and iodine testing.
Especially in a market where adulteration is a rising issue, food bloggers and social media users have complimented the company for its openness and quality monitoring.
Customer Reactions and Regulatory Forecast
On social media, the video has generated a lot of discussion since many people worry about the quality of food that international fast-food companies offer.
Particularly in the QSR (Quick Service Restaurant) sector, consumer forums have started advocating for tougher checks and more openness in the procurement and processing of food products.
Mangal’s results may also be noticed by food safety authorities, who might then start their own independent investigations on the subject.
Should McDonald’s be found guilty, the Food Safety and Standards Act of India could impose fines.
End
The exposé by Mohak Mangal acts as a wake-up call for officials as well as consumers. The authenticity of common food products like paneer must not be compromised at a period when health consciousness is on the increase.
Although Domino’s seems to maintain quality standards, McDonald’s currently confronts grave claims that could compromise brand reputation unless quickly and honestly addressed.
The ball is in McDonald’s court right now to answer, reassure its patrons, and, should necessary corrections be taken, reflect.
Mangal’s research in the meantime has reminded the public of the value of citizen journalism and the need of alertness in concerns of food safety.
