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Jaggery

Adultration

Problem is that jaggery blocks are oft adultrated.

Fake Organic claims:

I do get bits of plastic now and then with powdered jaggery. But if you dilute the block jaggery, you will find particles for sure. I buy organic branded products from Amazon. But yes, most of them are namesake organic, we don’t have any chance to check if they are authentic /genuine. -SN, Bengaluru, 2021

Purity test

Color

Pure jaggery is naturally dark brown or black in color. If the jaggery is an unusually vibrant color, it may have artificial colors.

Smell

Pure jaggery has a sweet, earthy aroma. If it smells chemical or pungent, it may be adulterated.

Taste

Pure jaggery has a rich, molasses-like flavor and is extremely sweet. If it tastes bitter or salty, or has a metallic aftertaste, it may be adulterated.

Texture

Pure jaggery has a consistent texture. If it feels too hard or soft, it may be adulterated with rock salt or gypsum.

Dissolution

Pure jaggery dissolves easily in water and leaves minimal residue. If it leaves a gritty or sandy residue, it may be adulterated.

Hydrochloric acid test

Add a few drops of hydrochloric acid (HCL) to some crushed jaggery in a test tube. If the jaggery bubbles, it may be mixed with impurities like baking soda or washing powder.

Chalk test

Add a chunk of chalk powder to jaggery in a bowl or vessel. If the chalk powder settles down, the jaggery may be adulterated.

Alcohol test

Mix half a teaspoon of jaggery with six milliliters of alcohol, then add 20 drops of concentrated hydrochloric acid. If the jaggery turns pink, it may have artificial colors.

Sources

V spreadsheet.