Adulteration of commercially available almond oils in India: A real challenge
By Violetta Siddiqui
Adulteration of commercial almond oil in India is a persistent challenge, primarily driven by economic incentives. The most common practice involves substituting or diluting pure almond oil with less expensive alternatives, notably apricot kernel oil, due to their similar chemical compositions, ultimately resulting in adulterated almond oil. Other vegetable oils, such as soybean or peanut, and even non-edible mineral oils, are sometimes used, posing significant health risks. Detecting these adulterants requires sophisticated analytical techniques like gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy.
Why is selecting the right brand important?
Since there is a rise in fake almond oils in India, pinpointing specific Indian almond oil brands with the "most" adulteration is difficult due to limited public data and varying testing practices. Adulteration levels fluctuate based on batch, supplier, and testing methods. Regulatory challenges and complex supply chains further complicate the issue. However, historical studies, dating back to the early 20th century, confirm the long-standing practice of adulterating almond oil with apricot kernel oil. Therefore, it is paramount to conduct proper research before purchasing from a brand to prevent almond oil health risks.
What health risk do adulterated oils pose?
A significant health concern arises from the use of apricot kernel oil as an adulterant. Apricot kernels contain amygdalin, a cyanogenic glycoside that releases cyanide when ingested. While small amounts of amygdalin may be harmless, excessive consumption can lead to cyanide poisoning, causing symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, headaches, and in severe cases, respiratory failure and death. The risk is particularly heightened when apricot kernel oil is used in large quantities or when the kernels are not properly processed to remove amygdalin. This makes apricot kernel oil a dangerous adulterant, especially for vulnerable populations.
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How to detect adulterants in oils?
Recent research, focusing on advanced detection methods like GC-MS, NIR spectroscopy, and qPCR amplification, highlights the continued prevalence of adulteration and helps detection of adulterants in oils. Regional food safety authorities regularly seize adulterated food products, including oils, indicating the ongoing presence of this issue in the market. Though specific brand names are often withheld from public reports, these actions are a testament to the fact that adulteration is common.
How will consumers know if they have selected the right brand?
General trends suggest that lower-priced brands, oils sold in unregulated or informal markets, and those purchased from unverified online retailers pose a higher risk of adulteration. The high cost of pure almond oil makes it difficult to sell genuine products at significantly reduced prices. Reports and studies highlight the widespread nature of edible oil adulteration in India, indicating that it is a broader industry concern, not just limited to one brand. To minimize the risk, consumers should purchase from reputable brands and established retailers, look for certifications, and be cautious of extremely low prices. Vigilance and informed purchasing are crucial in navigating the challenges of almond oil adulteration.
Conclusion
With the constant rise of adulteration in edible oils, consumers should stay aware and make informed decisions while purchasing almond or other oils. So, are you wondering how to follow almond oil safety tips and select a brand that align with your standards? Trust Kaizer and bring home premium quality edible oils and reach the pinnacle of wellbeing!