Beetroot Safety Inspection

Beetroots are sometimes dyed with Rhodamine B (a fluorescent red dye) to appear fresher and deeper in color, especially when sold sliced or peeled. 1. The Cotton Rub Test: Take a cotton ball soaked in water or liquid paraffin and rub the outer skin or a freshly cut surface. If the cotton turns bright pink or red, it is an artificial dye. Natural beetroot juice is a deep purple-red and takes a moment to bleed. 2. The Water Dissolution: Place a slice of beetroot in a glass of cold water. Natural beetroot color leaches slowly. If the water turns bright pink immediately, suspect Rhodamine B. 3. The Leaf Health: If the beetroot still has leaves, check their condition. Vibrant, deep red roots attached to withered, yellowing leaves often indicate the root has been "refreshed" with dyes. 4. The Internal Texture: Cut the beetroot crosswise. Natural beetroots often show faint white concentric rings. Unnaturally dyed ones may have uniform, neon-like color saturation throughout.