SIMPLE ADULTERATION TESTS....
Adulteration tests can be defined as deliberate mixing of
food material with undesirable and even toxic materials which may cause serious
diseases if consumed over a long period of time. Here are some simple
adulteration tests which can be carried out at your own place: -
- COFFEE POWDER
Common Adulterant: - Chicory powder, it is used to add bulk and
color to the product and can cause stomach disorders and joint pains.
Test: - Sprinkle a small quantity of coffee powder on the surface
of water in a glass. Coffee powder will float while chicory powder will sink
leaving a trail of color behind it.
- ICE CREAM
Common Adulterant: - Washing powder, it is used to add bright white
luster and lightness and can cause severe liver disorders.
Test: - Squeeze a few drops of lemon juice on ice cream; formation
of bubbles indicates the presence of washing powder.
- PULSES
Common Adulterant: - Metanil yellow, it is used to enhance the
yellow color and can cause stomach disorders.
Test: - Take sample of pulse sample in a glass and add water
followed by lemon juice. If the water turns pink or light purple, it shows the
presence of metanil yellow.
- MILK
Common Adulterant: - Starch, it is used to give a thick texture and
nullifies the nutritional value of the product.
Test: - Add a drop of iodine on the sample of milk. If the sample
turns blue then it indicates the presence of starch.
- CHILLY POWDER
Common Adulterant: - Coloring agents, used to enhance color.
Test: - Mix a small quantity of chilly powder in ether and add
lemon juice, if pink color appears then it is adulterated.
