How To Identify Fake Turmeric At Home: Recently, there have been many such cases in Madhya Pradesh, where the bride and groom reached the hospital after applying turmeric at a wedding. In such a situation, it is natural to raise questions because in Indian kitchen, turmeric is not just a spice but is considered an important part of taste, color and health. From pulses to vegetables and home remedies, turmeric is used in almost every household. It has also been used in Ayurveda for centuries for its medicinal properties. But today it is not necessary that every turmeric available in the market is pure.
With increasing adulteration, many times such chemicals and colors are added to turmeric, which can prove to be harmful to health. In such a situation, it becomes very important to check its purity at home.
How is turmeric adulterated?
In fact, to give bright yellow color and soft texture to turmeric, many times artificial colors and chemicals like methanil yellow, lead chromate are added. In some cases, chalk powder, wild turmeric or poor quality raw materials are also used. This is the reason why while buying turmeric, it is not considered right to rely only on the color.
How to know whether it is fake or real?
Water test is considered to be the easiest way to find out whether turmeric is real or fake. For this, add one spoon turmeric in a glass of lukewarm water and leave it for some time. If the turmeric settles down and the water remains light yellow, then the turmeric is considered pure. But if the water turns dark yellow and the turmeric starts dissolving completely, then it could be a sign of adulteration.
You can find out by rubbing it on your palm.
Palm test is also considered quite easy and effective. Just place a pinch of turmeric on the palm and rub it with the thumb for 10 to 20 seconds. If turmeric is real then it will leave a light yellow stain on the palm. Fake or highly adulterated turmeric often leaves a different color or fades quickly.
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What are the side effects of adulterated turmeric?
To check adulteration like metanil yellow in turmeric, some turmeric powder is put in a test tube and a few drops of hydrochloric acid is added to it. If the solution turns pink, then turmeric may be adulterated with metanil yellow. This chemical can cause problems like food poisoning, stomach ache, nausea and indigestion.
What things should be kept in mind while buying turmeric from the market?
To check the adulteration of chalk powder, water and hydrochloric acid are mixed in turmeric. If bubbles start forming in it then it is considered to be an indication of the presence of chalk powder. Experts believe that it is very important to pay attention to the purity of the spices used daily. Turmeric may be used in small quantities, but if it is adulterated, it can harm health in the long run. Therefore, while purchasing turmeric from the market, it is better to choose a trusted brand and check it at home from time to time.
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Disclaimer: This information is based on research studies and expert opinion. Do not consider this as a substitute for medical advice. Before adopting any new activity or exercise, please consult your doctor or relevant specialist.
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