Toor Dal (Pigeon Peas) Safety Inspection

Toor Dal is high-risk for adulteration with Metanil Yellow (a toxic textile dye) to look more yellow and Khesari Dal (a toxic pulse) to increase weight at a lower cost. 1. The Hydrochloric Acid Test (Dye Detection): In a test tube, take a small sample of Toor Dal and add a little water. Add a few drops of concentrated Hydrochloric Acid (HCl). If the solution turns pink or magenta, Metanil Yellow is present. Pure dal will not change color. 2. The Visual Shape Check (Khesari Dal): Examine the dal kernels closely. Toor Dal kernels are uniform, round, and slightly oval. Khesari Dal kernels are irregular, wedge-shaped, and often have a flatter appearance on one side. 3. The Water Soak (Color Bleed): Soak Toor Dal in warm water for 15 minutes. If the water turns bright yellow immediately, suspect artificial dyes. Natural dal color leaches very slowly and turns the water a faint, pale yellow. 4. The Rub Test: Rub dry dal vigorously between your palms. If it leaves a bright yellow powdery residue on your skin, it is a clear sign of dye coating or lead chromate treatment.