Torii Responds to Viral ‘Fake Paneer’ Claims
Mumbai’s culinary scene is buzzing after YouTuber Sarthak Sachdeva conducted “paneer authenticity” tests at several celebrity-owned restaurants, culminating at Torii, an Asian fusion eatery owned by Gauri Khan, wife of Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan. The tests, which went viral, raised questions about the quality of food served in high-end establishments, particularly after a sample from Torii reportedly turned black during an iodine test, suggesting the presence of starch.
Viral Video Sparks Controversy
The controversy began when Sarthak Sachdeva shared a video on social media, showcasing his tests on paneer samples from various restaurants. At Torii, he added iodine tincture to a paneer sample, which turned black, indicating the possible presence of starch—a common filler in low-quality paneer. This revelation quickly gained traction online, leading many to express concerns about the food quality at such prestigious venues.
In response to the uproar, Torii swiftly addressed the allegations through its official Instagram account and a formal statement. The restaurant emphasized that the iodine test results do not necessarily indicate the authenticity of the paneer. “We are utterly surprised at the news of ‘fake paneer’ being served at Torii. The iodine test reflects the presence of starch, not the authenticity of the paneer,” the statement read. It further clarified that the reaction observed is expected due to the use of soy-based ingredients, which are staples in Asian cuisine.
Clarification from Torii
Torii’s management reiterated their commitment to quality, stating that rigorous checks are in place from sourcing ingredients to serving dishes. “Our commitment to excellence in the food we serve remains unwavered,” they added. The restaurant also commented directly on the original video, reinforcing their stance that the iodine reaction is not indicative of inferior quality but rather a result of the ingredients used in their dishes.
This incident has ignited broader discussions about the reliability of such food tests and their implications for ingredient quality in professional kitchens. Experts have pointed out that iodine can react with starches found in soy-based sauces and thickeners, which are commonly used in Asian cooking. This nuance has led to potential misinterpretations of the test results, highlighting the complexity of food preparation in high-end restaurants.
Wider Implications for the Culinary Community
The viral nature of the video has not only put Torii in the spotlight but has also drawn attention to other celebrity-owned restaurants featured in Sachdeva’s test series, including Virat Kohli’s One Commune and Shilpa Shetty’s Bastian. However, Torii’s detailed response has stood out in the ongoing conversation about food authenticity and quality in the restaurant industry.
As the debate continues, many are left questioning the validity of such tests and their impact on public perception. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of transparency and communication in the culinary world, especially as consumers become increasingly aware of food quality and sourcing practices.
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