Is Your Black Pepper Adulterated? Simple Tests to Spot Fake Spices!

• Black pepper demand rises in winter, leading to increased adulteration with fake seeds or papaya seeds.
• Water test: Real black pepper floats, fake/papaya seeds sink due to higher density.
• Rub test: Genuine black pepper releases a strong, pungent aroma when rubbed; lack of aroma indicates staleness or adulteration.
• Paper test: Press peppercorns on white paper; oil stains indicate artificial polishing with mineral oil or ghee.
• Visual inspection: Real pepper is dark, wrinkled, uniform; brown/light seeds or hollow interiors suggest adulteration or low quality.

Why It Matters: Learn simple home tests to identify adulterated black pepper and ensure the purity of your spices.