Protecting Yourself from Adulterated Food: Easy Safety Tips for Everyone

In Hyderabad, concerns are rising as reports of adulterated food items continue to flood the markets, leaving both residents and authorities alarmed. From small vendors to popular restaurants and supermarkets, the issue of food safety standards has become a pressing matter in the city.

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Recent data from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) revealed that Hyderabad topped the list for reported cases of food adulteration in the country. With a staggering 246 cases recorded in the city alone, it’s evident that there’s a significant problem that needs to be addressed urgently.

Despite efforts by authorities to crack down on adulteration and seize contaminated products, it seems like only the surface has been scratched. Essential commodities like tea, coffee, sugar, milk, spices, oils, and even fruits are being adulterated and sold brazenly in local markets.

Just recently, the police arrested several fruit vendors for selling mangoes ripened with harmful chemicals, while a large-scale adulteration racket was busted, involving counterfeit products of well-known brands.

Given the seriousness of the situation, it’s crucial for everyone to be aware of how to identify adulterated food items. Here are some simple steps you can follow, based on guidelines from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI):

Watermelon Test: Cut a watermelon in half and rub a cotton ball on its inner parts. If the cotton ball remains unchanged, the watermelon is safe to eat. If it turns red, it’s likely adulterated.

Green Vegetable Test: Dab a cotton piece soaked in liquid paraffin on the outer surface of a green vegetable. If the cotton turns green, the vegetable may be adulterated.

Tea Leaves Test: Place some tea leaves on a filter paper and add water. If color streaks appear on the paper, the tea leaves may be adulterated.

Sweet Potato Test: Rub the outer surface of a sweet potato with a cotton ball soaked in water or vegetable oil. If the cotton ball changes color, the sweet potato may be adulterated.

Green Peas Test: Soak some green peas in water for 30 minutes. If the water turns green, the peas may be adulterated.

By following these simple tests, you can help protect yourself and your family from consuming adulterated food items. Remember to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities. Together, we can work towards ensuring food safety for all.