Saturday, August 4, 2012


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: -

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

      

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