Sago (Sabudana) Safety Inspection

Sago (tapioca pearls) is often bleached with chemicals like sulfuric acid or chlorine to achieve its signature "pure white" look and may be coated with talcum powder for a smooth finish. 1. The Water Float and Shine Check: Pure sago pearls are slightly translucent and have a natural, dull matte finish. If the pearls are "shining white" or look like opaque glass, they have likely been bleached. 2. The Rub Test (Talc Detection): Rub a handful of sago pearls between your palms. If they leave a slippery, fine white powder on your hands that doesn't feel like starch (which is slightly "squeaky"), suspect talcum powder coating. 3. The Soak Test: Soak sago in water for 15 minutes. Pure sago will swell and maintain its shape. If the water becomes extremely milky or a white sediment (not starch) settles at the bottom, suspect fillers or heavy coatings. 4. The Burning Test: Burn a few pearls of sago. Pure sago will swell like popcorn and have a mild, nutty, or burnt-starch smell. If it produces a chemical odor or leaves behind a significant amount of black, hard ash, it contains mineral fillers like talc or aluminum.