Given the concerns about plastic rice surfaces, it’s natural to question how you can ensure that the rice you eat is real and safe. While plastic rice is primarily a hoax, it is always beneficial to be aware of how to verify the quality of your rice. Here are six straightforward methods to help you be certain that the rice in your cupboard is authentic.

1. Water Test.

The water test is one of the easiest techniques to determine whether rice is real. Simply drop a spoonful of your rice into a glass of cool water. Genuine rice sinks to the bottom, but rice containing plastic components floats. This is because plastic has a lower density than water.

2. Fire Test.

Another approach for testing rice is to burn a few grains. If the rice is completely natural, it will char or burn like any other grain. When heated, plastic rice emits a harsh odor, similar to burnt plastic.

3. Mold Test.

Mold develops when natural rice sits in a wet atmosphere for a few days. You may try this by boiling some rice, storing it in a container, and leaving it in a warm location. After a few days, look for symptoms of mold or fermentation. If there are none, you may wish to examine the rice further.

4. Test for hot oil.

Place a few grains of rice in boiling oil. The natural rice grain will begin to cook and may burst slightly, much like popcorn. If the grain is plastic, it will melt, leaving a sticky film on the pan’s bottom.

5. Boiling Test.

While the rice is cooking, monitor the water. If you notice a thick layer of residue accumulation on top of the water, it may indicate the presence of plastic. Normal rice will become starchy, but there should be no strange residue.

6. Mortar & Pestle Test

Finally, grind a few rice grains with a mortar and pestle. Natural rice will crumble into a fine powder; however, plastic grains will not crush and may leave a detectable residue that differs from organic rice powder.

By doing these simple tests, you can be certain that the rice you eat is real and safe. Remember, to avoid food safety problems, always buy rice from trustworthy suppliers and brands. Enjoy your meals with confidence, knowing you’re eating genuine food!