Asafoetida (Hing) Safety Inspection

Hing is often mixed with cheap fillers like chalk, starch, or even harmful synthetic resins to increase weight and mimic aroma. 1. The Dissolution Test: Add a pinch of Hing to a glass of lukewarm water and stir. Pure Hing will dissolve completely, turning the water milky white without leaving any sediment. If it leaves a chalky or sandy residue at the bottom, it is adulterated with soapstone or earthy matter. 2. The Flame Test: Hold a small piece of Hing over a flame using tweezers. Pure Hing burns with a bright flame, similar to camphor, and leaves almost no ash. If it doesn't burn with a bright flame or leaves a large lump of ash, it contains resins or starch fillers. 3. The Aroma Intensity: Rub a pinch of Hing on your palm. Pure Hing has an intense, pungent, and lingering garlic-like smell. If the smell is faint or smells like sawdust quickly, it is likely mostly fillers. 4. Visual Texture: Pure "Bandhani" Hing should be uniform in color (yellow to light brown). Avoid Hing that has bright spots or feels overly coarse/gritty between fingers.