In Indian cuisine, ginger and garlic are essential, but beware—they could be counterfeit! A recent scandal in Maharashtra’s Akola district exposed a disturbing fraud: garlic made from cement. This revelation surfaced when Subhash Patil’s wife discovered that the garlic she purchased was a fake imitation.
Why Garlic Matters: Garlic is not just a flavorful ingredient; it’s also a powerhouse of health benefits. It enhances dishes with its pungent flavor and provides numerous medicinal advantages, such as boosting immunity, lowering blood pressure, and reducing inflammation. Garlic’s antioxidants support heart health, fight infections, and improve overall wellness.
Tips to Identify Fake Garlic:
- Check the Color: Genuine garlic usually has a slightly off-white color and may have spots. Perfectly white, blemish-free garlic could be artificial.
- Feel the Texture: Authentic garlic has a natural, uneven texture, while counterfeit garlic may feel unnaturally smooth and perfectly shaped.
- Touch the Skin: Real garlic has thin, easy-to-peel skin. If the skin is unusually thick and hard to remove, it may be a fake.
- Use Water: Place garlic in a bowl of water. Real garlic will sink, whereas fake garlic might float due to its different composition.
- Taste Test: Genuine garlic has a distinct taste. If the garlic tastes chemically or unusual, it’s best to avoid it.
- Inspect Packaging: Be wary of overly perfect packaging. Authentic garlic often comes in more natural and less polished packaging.
- Compare Prices: If garlic is priced significantly lower than usual, it could indicate a compromised quality or counterfeit product.
Stay informed and cautious to ensure you’re buying genuine garlic and not falling victim to fraudulent practices.
