Adulterated mustard oil can cause stomach problems, skin allergies, and other health problems. Therefore, it's important to learn how to identify the oil before purchasing and using it.
Mustard oil is a necessity in almost every Indian household these days. Whether it's cooking vegetables, tempering lentils, or applying oil to hair, mustard oil is used everywhere. However, due to increasing adulteration, it's no longer easy to purchase pure mustard oil from the market. Many times, we unknowingly bring home adulterated oil, which can gradually harm our health.
Adulterated mustard oil can cause stomach problems, skin allergies, and other illnesses. Therefore, it's important to learn to identify the oil before purchasing and using it. Fortunately, this doesn't require a lab test; some simple home remedies can help differentiate between genuine and fake mustard oil. So, let's learn how to check whether the mustard oil you're using at home is genuine or fake.
How to check whether mustard oil is real or fake
1. Test with a white paper - The easiest way to determine if your home-stored mustard oil is genuine is the white paper test. Take a clean piece of white paper and place 2-3 drops of the oil on it. Wait a few minutes. If the oil stain remains a deep yellow and slightly sticky, the oil is pure. If the stain lightens, spreads, or dries quickly, it may be adulterated.
2. Iodine test to detect adulteration - If mustard oil is adulterated with starch or any other substance, the iodine test is helpful. Take a teaspoon of oil in a bowl and add two drops of iodine. If the oil's color remains unchanged, it's fine. However, if a blue or black color appears, it's likely adulterated.
3. Identify by color - Genuine mustard oil is light or dark yellow, but not overly bright. If the oil appears excessively clear, too transparent, or unusually shiny, be wary. Sometimes, refined or chemical oils are added for adulteration, which alters the color.
4. Check by smell - Mustard oil is identified by its strong and slightly pungent aroma. When you open the bottle and notice a strong, pungent scent, it's likely pure. If the oil has a very faint or no scent at all, it's likely adulterated or overly processed.
5. Rub it on your palm - Take a small amount of mustard oil in your palm and rub it with both hands. If your hands develop a yellowish tinge or a chemical-like smell, the oil is likely fake. Genuine mustard oil only gives off a pungent odor when rubbed, leaving no color on your hands.
6. Test by heating - Put mustard oil in a pan and heat it lightly. Genuine mustard oil releases strong smoke upon heating and has a distinctive pungent odor. However, fake or adulterated oil produces less smoke and a milder aroma. This method is especially useful before cooking.
7. Taste identification - If you taste raw mustard oil, authentic oil produces a slight burning and bitter aftertaste. Adulterated oil may taste bland or strange. Remember to use a very small amount when tasting to avoid any health risks.
Keep these things in mind while buying mustard oil.
When purchasing mustard oil, don't base your decision solely on its low price. Inspect the bottle or packet carefully for swelling, broken, or leaking. Always check the label for the brand name, expiry date, and FSSAI number. Avoid buying the oil if it appears too clear or watery. Paying attention to its color, aroma, texture, and packaging can help you avoid adulterated mustard oil.
