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| - Last Updated on May 27, 2024 by Neelam Singh
Quick Take
According to a social media post, by cutting a potato in half and putting salt & lemon drops on it, you can test the adulteration in salt. We did the fact check and found it as false.
The Claim
A viral video circulating on social media claims that a simple home test involving a potato can check for adulteration in salt. According to the video, if you cut a potato in half, put salt and lemon drops on it. And then, observing a colour change to bluish-black, it supposedly indicates that the salt is ‘impure’.
Fact Check
What is common salt made up of?
Common salt, or sodium chloride (NaCl), is a crystalline substance primarily composed of sodium and chlorine ions. It is an essential nutrient for human health, playing a crucial role in various physiological processes. Common salt is widely used as a seasoning and preservative in food preparation.
What is iodized salt and why is it important to consume iodized salt?
Iodized salt is fortified with iodine, a vital micronutrient essential for thyroid function and overall health. Addition of Iodine does not indicate adulteration in salt. It plays an important role in the production of thyroid hormones. The thyroid hormones regulate metabolism, growth, and development. Iodine deficiency can lead to various health problems, including goitre (enlargement of the thyroid gland), intellectual disabilities, and developmental disorders in children. Iodization of salt is one of the most significant public health interventions by the Government of India, with the greatest impact.
Consuming iodized salt helps prevent iodine deficiency and its associated health issues. It ensures an adequate amount of iodine in the diet, supporting optimal thyroid function and overall well-being. Iodized salt is especially important for pregnant women, as iodine deficiency during pregnancy can have serious consequences for foetal brain development and cognitive function. Therefore, regular consumption of iodized salt is a simple and effective way to maintain iodine levels and promote good health.
What does potato contain?
Potatoes are a staple food crop consumed worldwide and are rich in carbohydrates, primarily in the form of starch. Additionally, potatoes contain water, vitamins (such as vitamin C and B vitamins), minerals (including potassium and magnesium), and small amounts of protein and fat. The composition of potatoes contributes to their nutritional value and culinary versatility.
Can a colour change in a cut potato indicate impure salt?
No, the claim that a colour change in a cut potato indicates adulteration in salt is not scientifically accurate. Although, the reaction between a cut potato and salt solution may result in a colour change, it is not a reliable indicator of salt purity. The observed colour change is primarily due to a chemical reaction between iodine and starch, rather than the purity of the salt itself. Factors such as the concentration of iodine in the salt, the presence of other substances in the potato, and environmental conditions can influence the observed colour change.
What is the chemical reaction between potato and salt?
When a cut potato is exposed to salt containing iodine, a chemical reaction between iodine and starch takes place. Iodine molecules form a complex with the starch molecules, resulting in the formation of a blue-black colour. This reaction is commonly used in laboratory settings to detect the presence of starch in various substances. However, it is important to note that this reaction does not provide information about the purity of the salt itself.
Can lemon drops hinder the chemical reaction between iodine and starch?
Lemon drops can potentially hinder the chemical reaction between iodine and starch due to their acidic nature. Lemon juice contains citric acid, which can alter the pH of the solution and affect the reaction. In some cases, the acidity of lemon drops may inhibit or slow down the reaction between iodine and starch. This leads to a less intense colour change or delaying the appearance of the blue-black complex. However, the extent to which lemon drops affect the reaction can vary depending on various factors. These influencing factors may be the concentration of lemon juice, the acidity of the solution, and the specific conditions of the experiment.
How does potato oxidation contribute to colour change?
In addition to the chemical reaction between iodine and starch, potato oxidation also plays a role in the observed colour change. When a potato is cut and exposed to air, it undergoes oxidation, a natural process where substances react with oxygen. This oxidation process can lead to the formation of compounds such as melanin, which can cause the exposed surfaces of the potato to darken or change colour. Therefore, the colour change in the potato is usually due to chemical reactions and natural oxidation processes.
Is relying on potato colour change a reliable method for assessing salt purity?
No, relying solely on the colour change of a cut potato as an indicator of adulteration in salt is not scientifically valid. The colour change is a result of the interaction between iodine and starch, as well as natural oxidation processes in the potato. Multiple factors, including the concentration of iodine in the salt solution, the presence of other substances in the potato, and environmental conditions, can influence the observed colour change. Therefore, it is not a reliable method for assessing the purity of salt.
How can we assess the purity of common salt?
Before we look at how to check if salt is pure, let’s understand why it’s important. Pure salt makes our food taste good and keeps us healthy. Now, let’s see how we can make sure our salt is pure:
- Visual Inspection: Examining the appearance of the salt crystals can provide some indications of purity. Pure salt usually appears as clean, white crystals with uniform size and shape. Any discoloration, irregularities, or foreign particles may suggest impurities.
- Dissolving Test: Dissolving a sample of salt in water and observing for any residue or insoluble particles can help detect impurities. Pure salt should dissolve completely, leaving behind a clear solution. Any residue or cloudiness may indicate the presence of impurities.
- Taste Test: While not always practical or reliable, tasting a small amount of salt can sometimes provide clues about its purity. Pure salt should have a clean, salty taste without any bitterness or off-flavours. However, use this method with caution, as impurities may not always be detectable by taste alone.
- Chemical Analysis: Laboratory analysis techniques, such as chromatography or spectroscopy, can provide precise measurements of the chemical composition of salt samples. These methods can detect trace elements or contaminants present in the salt.
- Purity Standards: Referring to industry standards and certifications can also help assess the purity of salt. Salt products that meet specific purity criteria and regulatory requirements may display certifications or labels indicating compliance with quality standards.
- Source and Production Process: Considering the source of the salt and the production process can provide insights into its purity. Salt harvested from natural sources, such as sea salt or salt mines, may be less prone to contamination compared to salt produced through industrial processes. Additionally, reputable manufacturers that adhere to strict quality control measures are more likely to produce high-quality, pure salt products.
In conclusion, the claim that a colour change in a cut potato indicates the purity of salt is false. The reaction between a cut potato and salt solution may result in a colour change. But it is not a reliable indicator of salt purity. It is due to a chemical reaction between Iodine & Starch. Consumers should exercise caution and rely on reputable sources and methods for assessing the quality of salt. Misinformation spread through viral videos can lead to confusion and misunderstanding. And therefore, this highlights the importance of critical thinking and scientific literacy.
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