Ground nut (Peanuts) Safety Inspection

Groundnuts (Peanuts) can contain highly toxic Aflatoxin mold or be coated with mineral oil to appear fresh and shiny. 1. The Visual Mold Check: Examine the kernels carefully. If you see any greenish, blackish, or grayish mold growth, especially in the crevices of the kernel, discard the inner batch. Aflatoxin-producing mold (Aspergillus) is invisible in small amounts but often visible in heavily contaminated nuts. 2. The Mineral Oil Test (Rub Test): Rub a few groundnut kernels between your palms or on a clean white paper. If the kernels leave a greasy, oily stain on the paper that has a chemical smell (not like peanut oil), it's likely coated with mineral oil to increase shine. 3. The Taste and Aroma Test: Smell the kernels. Natural groundnuts have a pleasant, nutty aroma. Rancid or moldy nuts smell musty or "off." Taste a small piece - if it's bitter or has a sour aftertaste, it may contain high levels of Aflatoxin or be rancid. 4. The Kernel Integrity Check: Choose kernels that are whole and plump. Shriveled, discolored, or damaged kernels are much more likely to contain Aflatoxin mold growth inside.