Buy dry fruits after checking

You might think that the dry fruits you are buying are good for consumption. Be careful – old dry fruits not fit for consumption are mixed to maximize profits.

The dry fruits normally have a shelf life in years but the risk of food borne illness is there if they are not stored properly.

Dry fruits especially packed from a non-reputed seller may be harmful.

While buying dry fruits check for:

• Signs of discoloration as the fruit grows darker than its natural color if it spoils.
• If fruits such as apricots, prunes or figs become hard and difficult to chew it means they are old.
• A rotten smell is a sign that the dry fruit has not been stored properly and has become moldy because of absorption of water.

In addition, dry fruits sold by seller from the unorganised sector will be packed lose or packed in boxes that won’t have expiry date.

Consumers should buy dry fruits that are packaged and labeled as per FSSAI (Food Safety Standards Association of India) guidelines.

Also, look for nutritional information label and for the FSSAI logo and license number….and avoid buying dried fruits that has a label mentioning use of preservatives and sugar.

Buy authentic dry fruits and protect your health!