Fig (Anjeer) Safety Inspection

Dried figs are highly susceptible to mold and insect infestation, often hidden behind heavy sulfur treatments to preserve color. 1. The Internal Inspection: Always break open a dried fig before eating. Look for white, fuzzy mold growth or tiny insects/mites deep inside the fruit. Natural figs should be clean inside. 2. The Sulfite Warning: If a dried fig looks exceptionally bright orange or golden-yellow, it has been treated with Sulfur Dioxide. Natural dried figs turn dark brown or even blackish as the sugars oxidize. 3. The Smell Profile: Natural dried figs have a sweet, fruity, honey-like aroma. If they smell sharp, acidic, or like "burnt matches," it indicates excessive sulfur preservatives. 4. The Texture Test: Pure figs should be soft and pliable. If the skin is extremely tough or has a "chemical" gloss, avoid it.