Spot Fake Black Pepper: Easy Tests to Ensure Your Spice is Pure!

• Demand for black pepper rises in winter, but fake versions are circulating, posing health risks.
• Water test: Real black pepper floats; fake (often papaya seeds) sinks due to higher density.
• Aroma test: Pure black pepper releases a strong, pungent smell when rubbed; lack of smell indicates staleness or adulteration.
• Oil test: Press seeds on white paper; oil stains mean artificial polishing with mineral oil or ghee.
• Visual inspection: Real seeds are dark, wrinkled, uniform; brown/light seeds or hollow interiors suggest adulteration with papaya seeds.

Why It Matters: Learn simple tests to identify fake black pepper and ensure you're consuming pure, healthy spice.