SOP: Detection of Added Starch in Spice Powders

GIFSQ — Global Institute for Food Safety & Quality

Principle

Cumin, coriander, cloves, chilli and similar spice powders do not contain significant amounts of true starch and therefore do not give a positive starch–iodide test; a positive reaction with iodine solution in such powders indicates added starch, and the finding is followed up by a microscopical test.

Apparatus required

• Microscope

Reagents

a. Iodine solution.

Procedure

Test the spice powder with iodine solution

↓

A positive starch–iodide reaction in powders of cumin, coriander, cloves, chilli and similar spices — which contain no significant true starch — indicates the presence of added starch

↓

Follow up the positive test with a microscopical test

References

Ranganna, S., Handbook of Analysis and Quality Control for Fruit and Vegetable Products, 2nd edition.