10 Ways to Identify Pure Mustard Oil

Mustard oil is a popular cooking oil known for its strong aroma, rich flavour, and numerous health benefits. However, with the increasing presence of adulterated and low-quality oils in the market, it’s essential to know how to identify pure mustard oil to ensure you are consuming a safe and healthy product. In this blog, we will guide you through simple tests and tips to determine the purity of mustard oil.

1. Check the Colour and Clarity

• Pure mustard oil has a dark yellow to golden colour with a slight reddish tint.
• It should be clear and free from suspended particles or cloudiness.
• Adulterated oil may appear pale, excessively dark, or cloudy.

2. Strong and Pungent Smell

• Pure mustard oil has a sharp, pungent aroma due to the presence of natural compounds like allyl isothiocyanate.
• If the oil lacks a strong smell or has an unusual odor, it could be adulterated.

3. Taste Test

• Mustard oil has a spicy, slightly bitter taste with a warm sensation when consumed raw.
• If the oil tastes bland or overly bitter, it may contain impurities.

4. Cold Test (Refrigerator Test)

• Take a small quantity of mustard oil and place it in the refrigerator for a few hours.
• Pure mustard oil thickens but does not solidify completely.
• If the oil remains completely liquid or turns grainy, it may be mixed with other oils.

5. Water Test

• Take a glass of water and add a few drops of mustard oil.
• Pure mustard oil floats on the surface and retains its yellow tint.
• If it mixes with water or leaves a white layer, it could be adulterated.

6. Rub Test (Palm Test)

• Take a small amount of mustard oil and rub it between your palms.
• Pure mustard oil absorbs easily and leaves a warm sensation.
• If it feels greasy or sticky, it may contain impurities.

7. Check for Argemone Oil Adulteration

• Argemone oil is a toxic adulterant sometimes added to mustard oil.
• To test, mix 5 ml of mustard oil with concentrated nitric acid (equal amount).
• If the solution turns reddish or brownish, the oil may be contaminated with argemone oil.

8. Look for FSSAI Certification

• Always buy mustard oil that carries an FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) mark.
• This ensures the oil meets government purity standards.

9. Check the Label and Packaging

• Choose mustard oil that comes in sealed, tamper-proof bottles or cans.
• Look for details like “100% pure cold-pressed” or “kachi ghani” on the packaging.
• Avoid brands with vague labelling or missing ingredient information.

10. Buy from Trusted Brands or Local Mills

• Reputed brands follow strict quality control and ensure the oil is free from adulteration.
• If buying from a local vendor, ensure the oil is sourced from authentic mustard seeds and produced using natural extraction methods.

• Why Choosing Pure Mustard Oil Matters?
• Using pure mustard oil ensures you get all its natural benefits, including: ✅ Better heart health ✅ Improved digestion ✅ Stronger immunity ✅ Enhanced skin and hair health ✅ Protection from harmful chemicals
• Final Thoughts

With rising concerns about food adulteration, it’s crucial to know how to identify pure mustard oil before using it in your cooking. By following these simple tests, you can ensure that you are consuming a high-quality, unadulterated product. Always buy from trusted sources and check for purity indicators before making a purchase.