Pumpkin Safety Inspection
Detect artificial dyes and wax coating in pumpkins
Inspection Guide
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Pumpkin Safety and Quality Check
Pumpkins are often treated with dyes to look bright orange and coated with wax to look fresh for long periods.
1. The Color Rub Test:
Take a damp white cloth and rub the orange surface of the pumpkin. If any orange or red color transfers to the cloth, it is a clear sign of artificial dyeing.
2. The Scratch Test (Rind Check):
Gently scratch the outer rind with your fingernail. Natural rind is hard but matte. If you see a thick waxy or plastic-like layer peeling off, it has been coated for longevity.
3. The Interior Color Test:
Cut a slice. Natural pumpkin has a rich, fibrous interior that matches the exterior health. If the inside is pale/whitish but the outside is bright orange, it indicates "color-fixing."
4. Weight Check:
A fresh, natural pumpkin should feel heavy for its size. If it feels light or hollow, it's either old or has been chemically preserved despite looking fresh on the outside.
Quick Safety Tips
- Perform wet cloth rub test for color dyes
- Check for unnatural glossy shine or waxy feel
- Interior should be fibrous and deep orange
- Avoid pumpkins that feel light for their size
Chemical Concerns
Step 1: AI Visual Scan
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