Ghee has always been an Integral part of Indian homes as a symbol of health, tradition and purity. From daily uses to spiritual touch, its significance is eternal.
To our surprise, the uncalled shift in perspectives from higher values to minting money has left many products available in markets adulterated!
And unfortunately, Ghee is one of them- A symbol of purity on the brink of losing its own purity!
Anyways, Taking the concept of Jago Grahak Jago ahead and considering FSSAI for its efforts in this regard, let’s see how you can get the best ghee sidelining the rest!
1. Check the Brand’s Reputation
Brands do matter for a number of reasons! No company can get well into a longer run without specialization, authenticity and thus, people’s trust. So, Look for brands that specialize in ghee or are known for organic and traditional food products. Check for customer reviews, both positive and negative, to gauge the reliability of the brand. Certifications like organic or A2 ghee labels can also signal authenticity, though they require further scrutiny.
2. Read the Product Label
Labels speak!
A genuine ghee product should have a clear and detailed label. Any other ingredients apart from cow’s milk or Buffalo’s milk, preservatives, or additives are a sign that the ghee may not be pure. Authentic ghee should also indicate its method of preparation, which traditionally involves the slow cooking of butter to remove water content and milk solids.
3. Look for Certifications
A lot of organizations do work for making sure that the consumers get the best. Therefore, Look for certifications that can confirm products’ authenticity. Labels like “100% Pure”, “Organic Certified”, or “Grass-fed” are often a good sign, though they should be verified! And A dedicated team works towards the same. Certified organic ghee should not have any chemical treatments, preservatives, or artificial additives. Additionally, if the ghee is marked as “A2 ghee,” it indicates that it was made from A2 milk (milk from indigenous cow breeds), which is considered more natural and beneficial than regular milk.
4. Check the Texture and Color
Ghee should have a golden-yellow color with a smooth, rich texture. If the ghee appears too pale or overly white, it could indicate poor-quality production or the use of adulterants. While the color can vary slightly based on the cow’s diet and region, an authentic ghee should not be too light or too dark. The texture of good-quality ghee should be firm at room temperature but easily melt when heated.
5. Evaluate the Aroma and Taste
Pure ghee should have a distinct, nutty aroma, and a rich, slightly savory taste. The presence of any off-putting smell, such as rancid or sour, is a clear indicator that the ghee has gone bad or is mixed with other oils. If you get a chance to read product reviews, pay attention to descriptions about the aroma and taste, as these are key factors in determining the ghee’s quality.
6. Verify Packaging and Storage Conditions
Ghee should always be stored in airtight, preferably glass, containers to maintain its freshness and quality. Check the packaging details on the product page to ensure it’s properly sealed. The packaging should protect the ghee from light and air to prevent oxidation. Products shipped in clear plastic containers are more susceptible to quality degradation, so always opt for those in dark or opaque containers.
7. Understand the Price Point
While high-quality ghee may be more expensive, a price that seems too good to be true can be a warning sign. If the price is significantly lower than the market average, the ghee may be adulterated with cheaper oils or may be of inferior quality. Be cautious when a deal looks too attractive.
Conclusion
Attention to detail, a bit of research and lil play with money can land you in a position to get a best deal. Remember, your Peace is your wealth and good-quality ghee is worth investing for your health!
Aap Ka Bazar®, a monthly grocery app, website, and chain of stores, has gathered this information, including nutritional values, through online research and writing tools. #yahasabmilega
