Black Cumin (Kalonji) Safety Inspection

Black Cumin (Kalonji) is often adulterated with cheaper dyed grass seeds or coated with mineral oil to give it an unnaturally dark and glossy look. 1. The Rub Test (Mineral Oil Detection): Rub a small amount of kalonji vigorously on a piece of white paper. If the paper develops a greasy, translucent stain that does not disappear, the seeds have been coated with mineral oil (Paraffin) to look premium. 2. The Water Soak (Color Bleed): Soak kalonji seeds in warm water for 15 minutes. If the water turns black or dark brown immediately, artificial coal-tar dyes have been used. Natural kalonji does not release color into water. 3. The Shape and Aroma Check: Pure kalonji seeds are triangular (pyramidal) in shape and have a powerful, pungent, and peppery aroma when crushed. If the seeds are elongated or lack aroma even when crushed, they may be dyed grass seeds. 4. The Grit and Dust Check: Spread the seeds on a white plate and look for matching black-tinted stone dust or grit. Retailers often add this to increase the weight of the spice.