Fake Garlic Made From Cement Penetrates Market, Top Tips To Spot It, Know The Health Risks

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Fake garlic has surfaced in Maharashtra's Akola district. This incident follows the discovery of other counterfeit items like ORS, paneer, and butter in the Indian market.

Subhash Patil, a retired police officer, shared that his wife was deceived into buying garlic made of cement. She purchased 250 grams from a vendor but couldn't peel it. Upon cutting, she found cement with a white coating inside.

In a video, Patil highlighted that street vendors are selling this fake garlic, misleading consumers and endangering public health, as reported by Zee 24 Taas.

Know how to identify fake garlic and what are the health risks if you consume a fake one.

How To Identify A Fake Garlic

Distinguishing between fake and real garlic can be quite challenging given the sophistication of modern food fraud. Here are some practical tips to help you differentiate genuine garlic from its counterfeit counterparts:

1. Inspect the Appearance

• Real garlic has a papery, thin skin that is typically white or off-white. Fake garlic may have a smoother or more plastic-like skin.
• Genuine garlic bulbs are made up of multiple individual cloves wrapped in a protective layer. Fake garlic might have a more uniform or unnatural structure, sometimes even appearing too perfect
• Real garlic cloves are white or off-white. If they look unusually shiny or have a synthetic sheen, they could be fake.

2. Check the Smell

Real garlic has a strong, pungent aroma that is unmistakable. Crush a clove and smell it-authentic garlic will have a sharp, spicy odor. Fake garlic may lack this distinctive smell or might have an artificial scent.

3. Feel the Texture

• Real garlic cloves are firm and have a certain level of texture when squeezed. Fake garlic might feel oddly soft or rubbery.
• Real garlic has a slightly rough surface due to its papery skin. Fake garlic might feel too smooth or plasticky.

4. Perform a Simple Test

• Submerge a clove in water. Real garlic will usually remain firm and float, while fake garlic might become mushy or sink.
• Peel a clove. Genuine garlic has a relatively easy-to-remove skin, while fake garlic might be harder to peel or have a different texture underneath.

5. Observe the Bulb Structure

• Real garlic bulbs have a natural variation in size and shape. Fake garlic tends to be more uniform and consistent in appearance.
• In real garlic, cloves are separated but still attached at the base. Fake garlic might show unusual separation patterns or lack of consistency in clove attachment.

6. Consider the Source

• Buy garlic from reputable vendors or stores known for quality products. If you encounter garlic that seems suspiciously cheap or is from an unreliable source, it might be worth investigating further.
• Read labels carefully. Real garlic should have a simple label with basic information, while fake garlic might come with misleading or confusing labeling.

7. Check for Any Chemical Residue

Authentic garlic should not have a noticeable chemical residue. If the garlic seems to have an unusual shine or feels coated, it might be a sign of artificial processing.

What Are The Health Risks Of Consuming Fake Garlic?

1. Potential Toxicity from Artificial Additives

Fake garlic often contains artificial additives and chemicals to mimic the appearance and taste of real garlic. Consuming these synthetic ingredients can pose various health risks. Many artificial additives used in fake garlic are not approved for consumption or may have harmful effects on the body. These substances can lead to allergic reactions, gastrointestinal problems, or long-term health issues. For example, some artificial flavorings and colorants used in counterfeit garlic can cause digestive disturbances or skin irritations.

2. Risk of Gastrointestinal Distress

Consuming fake garlic can cause gastrointestinal distress due to the presence of non-food-grade materials or synthetic fillers. These substances might not be easily digested and can lead to symptoms such as bloating, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. The body's digestive system is not equipped to handle artificial components that are often used in fake garlic, which can disrupt normal digestive processes and lead to discomfort or more serious digestive issues.

3. Potential Exposure to Harmful Chemicals

Fake garlic may contain harmful chemicals that are not typically found in natural garlic. These chemicals can be used to preserve the garlic or to enhance its appearance. Prolonged exposure to these chemicals can have adverse effects on health, including toxicity, organ damage, or increased risk of certain diseases. For instance, some artificial preservatives and colorants have been linked to health issues such as cancer or neurological problems.

4. Allergic Reactions

Individuals with allergies to certain artificial substances used in fake garlic may experience allergic reactions. These reactions can range from mild symptoms like itching and rash to severe reactions such as anaphylaxis, which requires immediate medical attention. Since fake garlic can contain a range of synthetic ingredients, it increases the risk of encountering allergens that are not present in natural garlic.

5. Impairment of Nutritional Benefits

Real garlic is renowned for its health benefits, including its antioxidant properties, anti-inflammatory effects, and cardiovascular benefits. Fake garlic, however, lacks these natural nutrients and compounds. Consuming fake garlic deprives you of the genuine health benefits that real garlic provides. Without these nutrients, you miss out on potential health advantages such as improved immune function, reduced risk of heart disease, and enhanced digestion.

6. Increased Risk of Foodborne Illness

Fake garlic may not be produced under the same sanitary conditions as genuine garlic. The use of synthetic materials and improper handling can lead to contamination. This increases the risk of foodborne illnesses caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites. For instance, if the fake garlic is produced in unhygienic conditions or with unsafe practices, it could carry pathogens that can cause food poisoning.

7. Negative Impact on Metabolism

Certain synthetic components found in fake garlic can disrupt normal metabolic processes. Real garlic supports healthy metabolism through its natural compounds, but fake garlic, with its artificial additives, may interfere with these processes. This can lead to issues such as metabolic imbalances, decreased energy levels, and difficulties in maintaining a healthy weight.

8. Long-term Health Risks

Regular consumption of fake garlic could potentially have long-term health risks due to the accumulation of harmful chemicals in the body. Over time, exposure to artificial additives and synthetic materials can contribute to chronic health conditions. For example, persistent exposure to certain chemicals may increase the risk of developing chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disorders, endocrine disruptions, or even cancer.

9. Compromised Immune Function

Natural garlic is known for its immune-boosting properties, thanks to its bioactive compounds like allicin. Fake garlic, lacking these natural compounds, does not support immune function in the same way. This could result in a weakened immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections and illnesses. Additionally, the presence of synthetic additives might contribute to immune system disturbances, further compromising overall health.

10. Interference with Medications

The artificial components in fake garlic might interact with medications or other supplements, potentially leading to adverse effects. For instance, some chemicals used to mimic garlic might interfere with the effectiveness of medications or cause unexpected reactions when combined with other substances. This could affect treatment outcomes and overall health management.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.