Tips to check adulteration in raw black peppercorn, kali mirch powder

Following are adulterants that are mixed

Papaya seeds

Papaya seeds look similar to black peppercorns after drying. “They are almost similar in size and colour. Papaya seeds are directly mixed with peppercorn and pepper powder because they are cheaper,” said Kaur.

How to identify papaya seeds in pepper:

Add peppercorn or pepper powder to a glass of water. Make sure to take a clear glass. “The peppercorn or pepper powder will settle on the bottom of the glass, whereas papaya seeds or powder would float on the surface,” said Kaur.

Mineral oil

Mineral oil is used to coat peppercorns to add shine and increase weight. “This process is done to increase the appearance of peppercorn and make it more appealing to buyers. But mineral oils are extremely harmful for human consumption,” said Kaur.

How to identify mineral oil presence in pepper

Add pepper powder or peppercorn to a glass of water and stir for some time. “If there is an oil film formed on water or oil droplets on the surface, that means mineral oil is added to pepper,” said Kaur.

Sawdust

Sawdust is mixed in black pepper powder to decrease the cost and increase the profit. Sawdust has a similar colour as pepper powder, which makes it unrecognisable while seeing, but when you taste it, you can tell the difference, said Kaur. “The pepper powder mixed with sawdust has much less spice as compared to pure pepper powder,” said Kaur.

How to identify sawdust in pepper

If you add pepper powder to a glass of water, sawdust starts to float on the water’s surface, and pepper powder will settle on the bottom.

Lead coating

Lead is used as a coat on immature peppercorns to make them look like fully mature peppercorns. “Lead coating also makes peppercorns appear shiny and hence good in quality. Lead coating also helps to enhance the weight,” said Kaur.

Are you adding black pepper to your food? (Photo: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

According to Kaur, consuming food that contains lead can have very bad effects on your brain and nervous system.

However, Kaur stressed that you cannot check lead presence in pepper at home. “Such tests are performed in laboratories under professionals’ observation,” said Kaur.

Here are some tips when buying black pepper or other food products.

*Buy from a trusted place.
*Do not fall for cheap stuff for some discount or additional gifts
*Look for the government certificate on the packaging. FSSAI certification in India should be present on the packaging.

*You can also look for quality check labels like Agmark or other organic labels.
*Try not to buy products that are unnaturally shiny and bright.

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.