4 smart tips to identify right quality of nuts & dry fruits

India's festival season has officially kicked off, with festivities such as Navratri, Dussehra, and Diwali spreading joy. Sweets become particularly important during these times. However, trust in sweets has suffered dramatically this year following an alarming incident where animal fat was discovered in the offerings from a well-known temple. When even temple offerings can be affected by such impurities, it raises concerns about how ordinary people can feel confident in the sweets sold at local shops. As a result, many consumers are turning to dry fruits as a healthier and safer gifting option. Yet, with reports of food adulteration, it's reasonable to question whether dry fruits are indeed safe. Fortunately, checking for adulteration in dry fruits is relatively straightforward—by following four simple steps, one can quickly verify the quality of purchases made from any store.

Avoid Judging Based Solely on Appearance
Consumers frequently make the mistake of basing their purchasing decisions solely on visual appeal. Shiny, flawless-appearing dry fruits may seem more appetising, but such perfection could often result from chemical polishing. Unprocessed nuts and dry fruits usually feature minor flaws like minor chipping or uneven colour, which indicates they have not undergone chemical treatments. For example, dry fruits such as almonds or cashews with a natural, slightly dull surface are generally safer and healthier options than those featuring glossy surfaces—natural does not necessarily equate with a perfect appearance.

Also Read: 9 reasons why regular nut consumption is beneficial for health


Check for freshness and texture
Quality nuts and dry fruits have distinct textures that indicate their freshness. Almonds, walnuts, and cashews should feel firm without signs of oiliness. Similarly, dates or raisins should have slight flexibility without excessive stickiness, which could indicate improper storage or spoilage. Always inspect texture and colour before purchasing loose, dry fruits to make an informed purchase decision.

Research the seller
With the holiday season comes increased competition between vendors and brands to capitalise on rising demand, yet not all of them adhere to high standards. Therefore, it is vital to conduct some background research before making your purchase. Check customer reviews and source information for nuts and dried fruits from trusted brands and their production and quality control processes that ensure an authentic product.



Also Read: The lesser-known nuts of India and their benefits

Examine the ingredients
It is important to review the ingredient list for any added sugars, sulfites, or other substances. To ensure a high-quality purchase, opt for dried fruits that are minimally processed and devoid of unnecessary additives.

In conclusion, with the holiday season underway, consumers must remain vigilant regarding the quality and freshness of nuts and dry fruits purchased for festive celebrations. Following these simple tips can ensure their purchases will both be safe and premium, leading to joyful yet healthy celebrations!

Contributed by: Rahul Kamath Bola, Vice President - NDFC(I)

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