How to determine whether lotus root powder is pure or impure

The purity of lotus root powder can be determined by observing the color, smelling the aroma, tasting the taste, testing the sediment, and checking the ingredient list. Pure lotus root powder is light brown or slightly red in color, with a light lotus root fragrance. After brewing, the taste is delicate with a slight graininess, and it does not change color when exposed to iodine. The ingredient list only contains lotus root without additives.

1. Observing Color

Pure lotus root powder naturally appears light brown or slightly red in color, due to the oxidation of polyphenols in lotus root. Poor quality lotus root starch may contain starch or pigments, resulting in a color that is too white or yellowish. Some products may appear unnaturally bright white due to bleaching treatment. After brewing, the pure lotus root powder solution is semi transparent amber color, while the adulterated lotus root powder solution is turbid or layered.

2. Smell

Pure lotus root powder has a unique fragrance of lotus root, without obvious chemical odors. The lotus root starch mixed with corn starch or cassava starch has a faint smell, and some low-quality products will have pungent fragrance due to the addition of essence. You can rub a small amount of lotus root powder in your palm and smell it. Pure lotus root powder will release a more obvious natural lotus root fragrance when exposed to body temperature.

3. Taste

After brewing pure lotus root powder, the taste is dense with a slight grainy texture, slightly sweet and aftertaste without acidity or astringency. Due to its high starch content, adulterated lotus root starch has a distinct powdery or gelatinous texture when consumed, and some products with added sugar have a sudden sweet taste. After refrigeration, pure lotus root powder has a moderate degree of coagulation, while adulterated lotus root powder is prone to water leakage or excessive coagulation.

4. Test sediment

Dissolve a small amount of lotus root powder in water and drip iodine solution. Pure lotus root powder will not turn blue purple because it does not contain starch. Lotus root starch mixed with potato starch or wheat starch will show a dark reaction when exposed to iodine. The lotus root powder solution after static brewing has a fine and uniform sediment of pure lotus root powder, while adulterated lotus root powder may result in coarse particles or layering.

Fifth, check the ingredient list

The official pure lotus root powder ingredient list should only indicate lotus root or pure lotus root powder. If starch, maltodextrin, white sugar and other ingredients appear, it is a adulterated product. Pay attention to the implementation standards of packaging labeling. Pure lotus root powder usually follows the industry standards or local specialty food standards for lotus root powder, rather than the standards for ordinary starch products.

When choosing lotus root starch, it is recommended to choose products from legitimate channels and prioritize brands with geographical indication certification. Pure lotus root powder is rich in lotus root polysaccharides, dietary fiber, and trace elements, and has high nutritional value. However, it should be noted that some people may be allergic to lotus root. Daily consumption can be paired with natural ingredients such as osmanthus and honey to enhance flavor and avoid consuming high tannic acid foods that may affect nutrient absorption. When storing, it should be sealed and moisture-proof, and consumed as soon as possible after opening to ensure quality.