Last Updated on January 21, 2024 by Team THIP
In India, coconut oil is often mixed with other stuff on purpose, making it not as pure. This happens because coconut oil and some other oils look and act similar. Since there is a widespread use of coconut oil for many things, it’s important to tackle this problem so people can get the real benefits without any tricks. This article will show you how one can check the purity of coconut oil at home.
What does pure coconut oil look like?
Pure coconut oil colour typically appears as a clear, colourless liquid when in its liquid form, which occurs at temperatures above 76°F (24°C). It has a smooth and homogeneous texture. Additionally, pure coconut oil may solidify into a white, semi-solid consistency at cooler temperatures. The natural properties of coconut oil and its processing methods influence its appearance and consistency.
Does pure coconut oil solidify?
Yes, pure coconut oil tends to solidify at 25°C. This solidification is a natural characteristic of coconut oil and does not indicate any impurities. It transitions from a liquid to a semi-solid or solid state in cooler environments, and this change in consistency is reversible with a return to warmer temperatures.
How to find pure coconut oil?
Check ingredients and labels
- Look for terms like “virgin,” “unrefined,” or “cold-pressed” on the label, indicating minimal processing and higher purity.
- Avoid products with added ingredients or mixed oils.
Source verification
- Choose coconut oil from reputable brands or sources with transparent supply chains.
- Ensure the oil is derived from fresh coconuts rather than copra.
Aroma and taste
- Pure coconut oil has a distinct and strong coconut aroma.
- Taste a small amount; it should have a natural and pleasant coconut flavour.
Appearance
- Pure coconut oil is usually clear and colourless when liquid (above 76°F/24°C).
- Any cloudiness or unusual colour may indicate impurities.
Solidification test
- Pure coconut oil solidifies at temperatures below 76°F (24°C).
- Refrigerate a small amount; it should solidify uniformly.
Brand reputation
- Choose products from well-known and trusted brands.
- Read customer reviews or seek recommendations from reliable sources.
Certifications
- Look for quality certifications like FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) or other relevant local certifications.
Price comparison
- Be cautious of the prices of coconut oil significantly lower than average, as excessively low prices may indicate adulteration.
In what ways coconut oil purity test can be done?
According to Fssai (The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India), the adulteration of coconut oil is possible through various methods. One of the ways to test it is:
Blending with other oils: Unethical practices may involve mixing coconut oil with cheaper vegetable oils, diluting its purity and altering its nutritional composition.
Here is the video:
Place 2-3 tablespoons of coconut oil in a glass container and refrigerate for 60 minutes. If the entire coconut oil solidifies uniformly, it indicates good quality. However, if there is adulteration with vegetable oil, after refrigeration, the coconut oil component will solidify, while the vegetable oil may form a distinct top layer. This simple test can help discern the purity of coconut oil, revealing any potential adulteration.
How is coconut oil adulterated?
Coconut oil adulteration can be done in many ways:
Palm kernel oil challenges
- Similar physical and chemical traits to coconut oil make adulteration detection difficult.
- Palm kernel oil is a cost-effective substitute, being 60% cheaper than coconut oil.
Testa oil mixing
- Testa oil, a by-product, is sometimes blended with copra during extraction.
- This blending helps reduce the overall production costs of coconut oil.
Second-grade oil risks
- Inferior-quality copra used in second-grade oil may lead to rapid spoilage.
- The higher free fatty acid content in rotted copra contributes to a lower-quality oil.
How can adulterated coconut oil impact health?
- Increased Health Risks: Some people mix coconut oil in their morning coffee as a part of their daily routine. Adulterants might introduce harmful substances, contributing to health risks such as elevated cholesterol levels, inflammation, and oxidative stress.
- Digestive Issues: Certain adulterants may lead to digestive discomfort or issues, affecting the normal functioning of the digestive system.
- Skin Reactions: Applying coconut oil on the skin has many advantages but the adulterated coconut oil may result in skin irritations, allergies, or other dermatological problems due to the presence of impurities.
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