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Are you also eating fake chilli powder? How to check purity at home
Sandy Verma | August 12, 2026 9:24 AM CST

Due to adulteration in red chilli powder, food often does not have the right spiciness. Real red chilies are deep red in color and provide natural spiciness, while fake chilies may appear too bright and have less flavor. In such a situation, by doing some measures and tests, you can identify whether your chilli powder is real or fake.

Nowadays, it has become a common complaint in many homes that even after adding red chilli powder to vegetables, pulses or chutney, it does not get the same spiciness as it used to be before. The reason for this could be not only adding less spices but also fake or adulterated red chilli powder.

water test

The easiest way to check the purity of red chili powder is water test. Add one spoon of chilli powder in a glass of water. If the chilli is real then it will slowly settle down and the water will turn light red. But if the chilli is fake then it may float to the top or give off a brighter colour.

identification by rubbing

It can also be identified by rubbing it with hands. Real red chilies have a slightly pungent aroma and natural heat, while fake chilies often have no distinct odor. Similarly, it can also be estimated by looking at the colour. Real chillies are dark red or light brown, while fake chillies may appear much brighter red.

identify with sharpness

Real chillies give instant spiciness, whereas in fake chillies the spiciness is felt less or with a delay. This is an easy way to identify it.

Disadvantages of eating fake red chilli

Consuming fake or adulterated red chilli can be harmful to health. This can cause heartburn, gas, allergies and other health problems in the long run. Therefore, one should always buy branded and FSSAI certified chillies and must check the packing and expiry date.


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