The sad truth of the modern spice market is that much of what is sold in supermarkets is either old, low-grade, or adulterated. Here is how you can check the quality of your spices at home.
1. Black Pepper: The Float Test
The Adulteration: Low-quality light berries or even papaya seeds are often mixed in.
The Test: Drop a handful of peppercorns into a glass of water. High-quality, mature
peppercorns will sink. The light, hollow, or fake ones will float.
2. Cardamom: The Touch Test
The Adulteration: Pods rarely have fakes, but they can be old or have the oils
extracted.
The Test: A fresh pod should feel sticky when verified. If the pod is dry and the seeds
inside are brown or dust-colored (instead of black), it has lost its flavor.
3. Coffee: The Spread Test
The Adulteration: Chicory is a common additive, but sometimes starch or date seed powder is
used.
The Test: Sprinkle coffee powder on the surface of a glass of water. Pure coffee will float
for a while before sinking. Chicory will sink almost immediately and leave a reddish trail.
At Everghat, we guarantee 100% single-origin purity. No additives, no "blends"—just nature.