Chilli Powder — Quick Screen for Artificial Colour

What the FSSAI chilli-colour check looks for

FSSAI's rapid video shows chilli powder being sprinkled on the surface of water. The key observation is whether added water-soluble colour separates quickly and moves down through the glass in visible coloured streaks. The user should not immediately stir the sample because the streak pattern is easier to notice before the powder is fully mixed.

Natural chilli can also colour water

Chilli contains natural red pigments, so some colour around the powder is not surprising. The rapid screen is looking for an obvious, fast, streak-like release that appears separate from the spice particles. Kitchen Check should explain this before showing the result so normal chilli is not failed just because the water becomes slightly red.

Do not identify the dye from colour alone

FSSAI spice guidance lists several problematic colours and dyes that may be used in chilli powder. The water test does not tell whether a particular dye such as Sudan dye is present. Specific dye identification needs another validated method. The app should never turn 'red streaks' into a named carcinogen result.

Avoid loose ground spices when possible

FSSAI guidance specifically advises consumers to avoid buying ground spices sold loose and to prefer traceable packaged products. Ground chilli is easy to mix with fillers and colours because the original structure is no longer visible. The rapid screen is useful, but purchase traceability is an important preventive layer.

Keep the tested portion separate

Once chilli powder is mixed with water, do not return it to the food jar. Wash hands if the powder causes irritation and avoid touching the eyes. The test itself does not require tasting, heating or adding another chemical. A small sample is enough.

What to do with a repeated suspicious result

If two clean-water screens from the same pack show the same strong streaking, document the batch and seller rather than running stronger chemistry. Keep the remaining product dry and intact. FSSAI provides notified-lab and Food Safety Department routes for confirmation.

Recommended result wording

Use 'No obvious artificial-colour streaking', 'Unclear—natural pigment may be affecting the water', or 'Distinct rapid colour streaks seen—screen suspicious'. Do not show a named-dye result from this rapid water observation.

Keep chilli away from eyes and face

Even a simple water test can spread chilli particles if the user shakes the glass or handles the powder carelessly. The app should tell users to sprinkle gently, keep the glass on a stable surface and wash hands after the test. If chilli enters the eyes, the user should follow ordinary first-aid guidance rather than continuing the adulteration check. Safety comes before completing the card.

A stable glass improves the observation.