Brands Tested
Unit Price (Rs) of 100 grams
As per the unit price, Golden Harvest is the cheapest brand and Sahiba is the costliest.
Parameters Tested
Moisture Content
As per Food Safety and Standards (FSS) Regulations, moisture content in coriander powder should not be more than 9.0 per cent by weight. Less moisture means more shelf life for the food product and hence lower is better.
Volatile Oil Content (on dry-weight basis)
The characteristic aromatic flavour of coriander comes from their essential volatile oils and fatty acids. As per FSS Regulations, volatile oil content on dryweight basis shall not be less than 0.09 per cent by volume/weight in coriander powder. So, higher is better for consumers.
Added Colour
Although coriander powder is required to be free from added colour, it may be adulterated by green colour for better eye appeal.
Ash Insoluble in Dilute Hydrochloric Acid
Ash insoluble in dilute hydrochloric acid (HCL) is an indicator of dirt and dust in the food product – so, lower is better. As per FSS Regulations, on dry basis it should not be more than 1.5 per cent by weight.
Marking
The following information shall be clearly and indelibly marked on the label of each container/ packet:
The importance of marking cannot be overemphasised, as it gives information about the characteristics of the product and/or claims of the manufacturer, all of which help consumers in choosing the product.
Customer-Care Details
As per Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011, every package shall bear the name, address, telephone number, and email address, if available, of the person who can be – or the office that can be – contacted in case of consumer complaints.