Share
Recently police recovered a total of 20,399kg of adulterated cumin, worth over Rs 7 lakh from two men near Thane. It has been reported that the accused would make fake cumin with wood, fennel seed wastes and chemical powder which they would mix with authentic cumin. If you use cumin regularly in your kitchen, it’s important to be aware of adulterated varieties that are sold in the market as real cumin.
Though whole jeera and black jeera are both available in packaged forms sold by reputable brands, loose varieties are also sold by grocery stores. Recently police recovered a total of 20,399kg of adulterated cumin, worth over Rs 7 lakh from two men near Mumbai's Thane. It has been reported that the accused would make fake cumin with wood, fennel seed wastes and chemical powder which they would mix with authentic cumin. If you use cumin regularly in your kitchen, it’s important to be aware of adulterated varieties that are sold in the market as real cumin.
Though whole jeera and black jeera are both available in packaged forms sold by reputable brands, loose varieties are also sold by grocery stores. Jeera, or cumin, has a distinctive and warm flavour profile that is a combination of earthy, nutty, and slightly peppery notes. When used in moderation, cumin imparts a warm and comforting essence to the food and when jeera is roasted or tempered in oil or ghee, its flavours intensify, and it releases a rich aroma that is a key characteristic of many Indian dishes.
If you use cumin regularly and are concerned about the availability of adulterated cumin, here are a few basic pointers to identify authentic jeera.
Appearance and Size
Genuine cumin seeds have a distinctive appearance. They are small, elongated, and possess a light to dark brown colour. The seeds should be uniform in size and shape. Be wary of cumin seeds that look too shiny or unnaturally uniform, as this could indicate the presence of additives or polishing agents.
Aroma
The aroma is a key factor in identifying genuine cumin seeds. Crush a few seeds between your fingers and take a good whiff. Authentic jeera has a strong, earthy, and slightly peppery fragrance. If the smell is too weak or has a chemical undertone, it may be an indication of inferior quality or adulteration.
Taste Test
The taste of genuine cumin is warm, slightly nutty, and has a peppery undertone. Chew a few seeds to assess the flavour. If the taste is overly bitter, pungent, or lacks the characteristic cumin flavour, it could be a sign of impurities or fake cumin.
Water Test
The water test is a simple method to identify impurities in cumin seeds. Place a few seeds in a glass of water. Genuine cumin seeds should sink to the bottom, as they are denser than water. If the seeds float or disintegrate, it could indicate the presence of fillers or other substances.
Powder Purity
If you have cumin powder, its texture can reveal a lot about its authenticity. Pure cumin powder should be fine and have a sandy texture. Adulterated or fake cumin powder may have a smoother texture due to the addition of starch or flour. Rub a small amount between your fingers; if it feels excessively smooth, it might be compromised.
Packaging and Labeling
Examine the packaging and labelling of the cumin seeds. Genuine products usually have clear and accurate labelling, including details such as the place of origin, expiration date, and nutritional information. Check for any signs of tampering, unusual packaging, or missing information, as these could be red flags.
