Is Store-Bought Ginger-Garlic Paste Safe? Here’s What You Should Know
Is Store-Bought Ginger-Garlic Paste Safe? Here's What You Should Know
Ginger-garlic paste is used in many Indian kitchens every day. Some people make it at home, while others buy it from the store to save time. There is nothing wrong with using store-bought paste if it helps reduce cooking time. But it is important to know what you are putting into your food.
What’s Inside the Store-Bought Paste?
Most readymade pastes have chemicals and additives to keep them fresh and smooth. Some of the common ones include citric acid, xanthan gum, and synthetic food colors. These are used to maintain the smell, texture, and color of the paste. While these chemicals are approved in small amounts, they may cause problems for people with sensitive stomachs.
Some pastes may also contain ingredients like titanium dioxide. It is used to make the paste look brighter, but studies say it may not be safe in large amounts. Other low-quality pastes might be made using spoiled ginger or garlic. To bulk up the product, some makers even add rice flour, chalk powder, or too much salt and oil.
How to Spot a Bad Paste
There are a few ways to tell if the paste is not safe. Check the color. If it is too white or shiny, it may have added chemicals. If it looks green or grey, it may be spoiled. Smell is another clue. A strong, natural ginger-garlic smell is good, but a sour or odd smell could mean the paste has gone bad. Also, check the texture. It should be smooth and even. If it is too thick, watery, or has separated, it might be adulterated.
What to Look for When Buying
Before buying, read the label carefully. Ginger and garlic should be the main ingredients. Avoid products with artificial colors or too many preservatives. Make sure the pack shows proper branding, a batch number, and FSSAI license details. Also, always check the expiry and manufacturing date.
Making It at Home
Making your own paste at home is easy. It just takes a little more time. Take 200 gm of ginger and 300 gm of garlic. Peel, wash, and dry them well. Blend with 2-3 tablespoons of sunflower oil and some salt. You can also add a little vinegar or turmeric if you want. Store it in a clean glass jar in the fridge. It will last for a week or more. You can also freeze it for a longer time.
This way, you know exactly what is going into your food and can avoid unnecessary chemicals.
