Masoor Dal (Red Lentils) Safety Inspection

Masoor Dal is often polished and dyed with synthetic red/pink colors (like Rhodamine B) to look more attractive. 1. The Cold Water Test: Take a handful of dal in a glass of cold water and leave it for 10-15 minutes. Pure Masoor dal will not color the water significantly. If the water turns bright red, pink, or orange, it's a clear sign of artificial dyeing. 2. The Wet Cloth Rub Test: Rub some dal grains with a wet white cloth. If red/pink color transfers to the cloth, it indicates surface dye treatment. 3. Visual Grain Inspection: Natural Masoor dal has a dull, earthy orange color with slight variations. If all grains are perfectly uniform, glossy, and intensely bright red, they are likely dyed. 4. The Texture Test: Natural red lentils have a matte finish. If they feel oily or unnaturally smooth, they may have been treated with oil or wax coating to enhance appearance.