The foundation of any meal lies in its spices that elevate flavours and add aromas to a dish. However, commercial spices may compromise quality for convenience. Unbeknownst to consumers, store-bought spices can contain impurities like artificial colours, preservatives and heavy metals. These contaminants not only undermine the nutritional value but also pose health risks......See Full Story>>.....See Full Story>>
Thus, sourcing high-quality spices becomes crucial. Here are some effective methods that can help you check the adulteration of common kitchen spices at home.
Chilli Powder
Verify the purity of chilli powder with a simple water test. When mixed, pure chilli powder floats briefly before dissolving slowly whereas adulterated powder sinks instantly while leaving distinctive red streaks. This quick check ensures the authenticity of one of the most used spices.
Cumin Seeds
Ensure cumin seed purity with a simple hand test. Vigorously rub the seeds on your palm, pure cumin leaves a warm earthy fragrance and no residue. However, adulterated seeds leave a distinct black residue, indicating impurities. This simple check guarantees quality and purity, safeguarding your culinary creations.
Turmeric Powder
Identify fake turmeric powder with a water test. Pure turmeric settles slowly while adulterated powder mixes quickly, releasing an intense dark yellow colour. Artificial colouring in impure turmeric dissolves rapidly, revealing its inferior quality.
Black Pepper
Protect your health by verifying black pepper purity. Mix black pepper in water. Real black pepper sinks to the bottom whereas impurities like light berries and papaya seeds remain afloat. This simple test exposes common contaminants, ensuring you consume only authentic, high-quality black pepper that is free from harmful impurities and additives.
Hing
Verify asafetida (hing) purity with a simple water test. Crush and dissolve it in water. Genuine asafetida dissolves completely, leaving no colour or residue. If the water turns yellow or cloudy, it’s adulterated.