Walnuts Safety Inspection

Walnut kernels are bleached to appear whiter and more attractive, especially to hide rancidity or age. 1. The Shell Integrity Test: Examine the shell (if buying with shell). Natural walnuts have: - Natural light brown color with variations - Irregular texture - Some minor cracks or marks Artificially cleaned shells may be: - Unnaturally uniform color - Excessively clean - Suspiciously perfect appearance 2. The Kernel Color Test: Crack open and examine kernel. Natural walnut kernels are: - Cream colored with natural golden-brown skin - Slight variations in color - Characteristic brain-like folds visible Bleached kernels are: - Artificially white or pale - Uniform color throughout - Suspicious bright appearance - May lack natural brown skin 3. The Smell Test: Natural walnuts have a pleasant, mild, nutty aroma. Chemically treated walnuts smell: - Chemical or like sulfur - Rancid (if bleached to hide age) - Lack of natural aroma - Unpleasant chemical odor 4. The Float Test (For Freshness): Drop shelled walnuts in water. Fresh natural walnuts sink. If they float: - May be old/rancid - Dried out from age - Potentially hollow from pest damage This doesn't indicate chemical treatment directly but indicates poor quality often masked by bleaching. 5. The Taste Test (Small Piece): Natural fresh walnuts taste: - Mild, pleasant, slightly sweet - Natural nutty flavor - No aftertaste Rancid or chemically treated walnuts taste: - Bitter or metallic - Chemical aftertaste - Sour or off-flavor - Paint-like taste