Instant Masala Noodles

Instant Masala Noodles

by | Aug 15, 2021 | Instant Noodles

Instant Masala Noodles

The popularity of instant noodles has come to the point where we almost count it as our essential grocery item. It meets our untimely hunger pangs and sometimes get served as breakfast and evening snacks as well in a few households. While the acceptance of this product among all age groups is unanimous, the product is still subject to careful investigation for consumption. Does it contain required amount of salt? How much is the toxic content? If we care to make ourselves informed with all these facts, then this piece of reading is for you. Here, we tested five popular instant noodles and ranked them as per their performance scores. The test has been conducted in a NABL accredited lab ensuring only the best makes the cut. Here’s a report.

Instant noodle is a ready to cook and consumable product prepared from wheat flour or other flours as the main ingredient. Instant noodle is characterised by the use of pregelatinization and dehydration processes either by frying in any oil or fat. Such products then get presented as fried noodles or non-fried noodles.
“Instant Noodle,” gets prepared with wheat flour or rice flour or flour of any other cereals, millets and legumes with or without the addition of herbs, condiments and seasoning, spices, iodised salt, sugar, wheat gluten by kneading the dough. It may be added with starches, dried fruits and vegetables, or their products or extracts, nuts, edible protein and egg powder, meat, poultry, marine or their products if required.

Types of Instant Noodles

Normal noodles are mostly made of maida (the fine product made by milling or grinding wheat). Atta noodles are made of atta (the coarse flour product obtained by milling or grinding wheat). Atta contains more dietary fibres than maida. Fibre helps in better digestion and therefore, atta noodles are considered better than maida noodles. Yet, we also now have oats noodles in the market.

How we test

The testing has been conducted following the FSSAI standard/regulations; besides, consumer centric tests and product claims. As mentioned above, we have selected a NABL accredited lab for the product testing to maintain all fairness.

Brands Tested

We singled out the following five instant masala noodles brands for comparative testing. The table below is to tell you succinctly which brand scored the highest.

Rank Overall Score (rounded off out of 100) Brand MRP (Rs) Net weight (in grams) MRP

per 100

gm,

Rs.

 Best Before, months Marketer /Manufacturer
1. 92 Maggi 12 70 17.14 9 Nestle India Limited
2. 86 Wai Wai 60 360 16.66 9 CG Foods
2. 86 Top Ramen 64 420 15.24 10 Indo Nissan Food Pvt Ltd
2. 86 Smith Jones 68 360 18.88 9 Capital Food Pvt Ltd
3. 84 Snac tac 70 (buy one get one free) 300 23.33 9 Reliance India Limited

Note: Snac tac has “buy one get one free” offer. Hence its effective price is Rs.35 for 300 gm.

CV Recommendations

Top Performer

Maggi

Value for Money Brand

Top Ramen

Key findings

• Brand Maggi has been ranked number 1 followed by Wai Wai, Top Ramen and Smith & Jones.
• Our Value for Money brand is Top Ramen.
• Lowest saturated fat has been found in Maggi followed by Snac tac and Smith & Jones.
• Lowest sodium content has been found in Maggi and highest in Wai Wai.
• Highest protein has been found in Maggi and lowest in Snac tac.
• Maggi also scored the highest in sensory panel tests followed by Smith & Jones and Top Ramen.
• Trans fat has been found highest in Top Ramen and lowest in Smith & Jones but well within the standard limit.
• Toxic metals, such as lead, arsenic, mercury and aflatoxin have been found well within the specified limits thus the products are safe for consumption.
• Here’s a word of caution for consumers: As noodles are added with saturated fat and salt, hence, limited consumption is suggested.

 

Test results

Comparative performance of instant masala noodles

Brand

Parameter

 Wt. % Maggi Wai Wai Top Ramen Smith &

Jones

 Snac tac
Physico-chemical tests            
Moisture 5 4.20 4.85 4.30 4.33 4.03
Carbohydrate 3 2.69 2.63 2.97 2.79 2.55
Total protein 10 9.85 8.50 8.50 8.35 7.30
Fat 5 4.14 4.60 4.08 4.28 4.32
Saturated fat 5 3.60 2.90 2.70 3.00 3.40
Trans fat 5 4.60 4.90 3.10 5.00 4.90
Energy 4 3.26 3.88 3.31 3.46 3.17
Acid insoluble ash 7 6.44 5.88 6.86 3.92 7.00
Sodium (as Na) 4 3.72 2.74 3.72 3.16 3.16
Acid value of extracted fat 7 7.0 6.58 6.72 6.02 5.46
Lead 2 1.7 1.2 1.8 1.8 1.5
Arsenic 2 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0
Mercury 2 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0
Total aflatoxin 3 2.0 2.0 1.91 2.0 1.93
Net Weight 2 2.0 1.94 2.0 2.0 2.0
Cooking time 4 3.60 3.52 3.60 3.60 3.20
Sensory panel tests 25 24.06 21.19 21.68 23.20 21.12

Test Parameters

Sensory Panel Test | Acid Value of Extracted Fat| Acid insoluble ash| Total Protein| Fat| Trans Fat| Saturated Fat| Moisture| Energy Value| Total Carbohydrate| Cooking Time| Total Aflatoxin| Net Weight| | Sodium| Mercury| Arsenic| Lead| Marking |Packaging

 

EVALUATION OF TEST RESULTS

Sensory panel tests

This is a very important parameter where subjective panel tests have been conducted in a laboratory, based on their critical examination and opinion of panelists. During this test, we determine the overall sensory quality of the product. We conducted the sensory tests against colour and appearance, flavour/ aroma, taste and after taste, texture and overall acceptability. These tests have been done in the lab involving panel members under the supervision of trained experts. The average score of all the panel members have been given in the below tables.

Overall score obtained on sensory panel tests

The noodle shall be of good characteristic colour, appearance, texture, aroma and taste and shall be free from undesirable taste, dirt, insect’s larvae and impurities or any other extraneous matter.

 

  S.No       Brands        Overall Score out of 25
1. Maggi 24.06
2. Smith Jones 23.20
3. Top Ramen 21.68
4. Wai Wai 21.19
5. Snac tac 21.12

    Maggi performed on top followed by Smith & Jones and Top Ramen. Maggi performed highest score in all the sensory attributes and preferred by the panelists.

    Acid value of extracted fat

    Determination of acid value is used as a general indication of the condition and edibility of oils. Acid value shall not be more than 2.0. Acid value of Maggi was lowest and it was highest in Snac tac but within the specified limit.

    Acid insoluble ash (on dry matter basis)

    Acid insoluble ash indicates the presence of impurities i.e. dirt and dust. As per FSSAI, acid insoluble ash content should not be more than 0.3 per cent by mass. All the brands have been found with acid insoluble ash well within the prescribed limit of 0.3 per cent by mass. However, the substance has been found lowest in Snac tac followed by Top Ramen.

    Total protein (N x 6.25), percentage by mass

    Higher protein intake is beneficial for health and it is an essential nutrient in diet. Protein plays an important role in the cellular maintenance, growth, and functioning of the human body. Protein is generally considered good. Highest protein has been found in Maggi and lowest in Snac tac.

    Trans fat

    Trans fat is double trouble for the health of the heart. It increases bad cholesterol and lowers good cholesterol in the body. Just like saturated fats, they also raise the level of “bad” cholesterol in our blood. Trans fat has been found between 0.01 to 0.20 per cent. It has been found highest in Top Ramen and lowest in Smith & Jones.

    Fat

    Fat is a main source of energy. Fats should be largely consumed in the unsaturated form. The consumption of unsaturated fatty acids especially mono and poly unsaturated fatty acids should be encouraged in everyday diets. As per the dietary guide lines, adults with sedentary lifestyle should consume about 25 gm/day of visible fat, while individuals involved in hard physical work require 30-40-gms/day of visible fat. No requirement has been specified in national standard. Fat has been found between 15.4 to 18.0 per cent by mass. Highest fat has been found in Wai Wai and lowest in Top Ramen.

    Saturated fat

    While consuming healthy fats is a good idea, most instant noodles are high in saturated fat, which is directly tied to coronary heart disease and strokes. Take one look at the total grams of fat on the nutritional label, and you’ll find that about half of the total fat in noodles is saturated fat. There is no requirement specified in national standard. We’ve found lowest saturated fat in Maggi followed by Snac tac and Smith & Jones. We found highest saturated fat in Top Ramen.

     

    PHYSICO-CHEMICAL TESTS

    Moisture percentage by mass

    Moisture shall be within the specified limit (10 per cent maximum) as per the FSSAI regulation. Higher content of moisture may spoil the product. As per the FSSAI regulation, moisture content in instant noodle should not be more than 10 per cent in fried noodles and 13 per cent in non-fried noodles. All the brands have been found well within the prescribed
    limit. We’ve found the moisture content lowest in Wai Wai and highest in Snac tac, however, they are well within limit.

    Energy value

    The energy value of a food indicates its value to the body as a fuel. Energy value is the number of calories which our body obtains from the foods. There is no requirement prescribed in Indian standard. We’ve found it highest in Wai Wai and lowest in Snac tac.

    Total Carbohydrate

    Carbohydrate is the source of energy. However, the national standards do not suggest its inclusion in noodles. We found it highest in Top Ramen and lowest in Snac tac.

    Cooking time

    We cooked the noodles following given instructions on the product labels. We calculated the cooking time excluding time required for boiling of water. It may be noted that all the brands have declared the cooking time in the range of 2 to 3 minutes, excluding time for boiling water. Maggi, Top Ramen and Smith & Jones took least time (3 mins) in cooking and Snac tac took highest time (4 mins).

    Total Aflatoxin

    Aflatoxins are highly toxic compounds and can cause both acute and chronic toxicity in humans. It shall be 30 µg/kg maximum. We detected it in Top Ramen and Snac tac, but well within the specified limit.
    Sodium (as Na), percentage by mass
    Sodium is a mineral commonly referred as salt. Sodium is a naturally occurring mineral found in many different foods. It is used for seasoning as well as food preservation. Salt also inhibits the growth of bacteria in food articles. Sodium helps to control the amount of water in the body. WHO’s recommendation on sodium consumption for adults is 2-g sodium/day (equivalent to 5-g salt/day). Excess sodium intake is an important determinant of hypertension and cardio-vascular (CV) risk. We found sodium highest in Wai Wai and lowest in Maggi.

    Net weight

    Net weight of a product should be as per the declaration and shall not exceed the tolerance limit of legal metrology. Net weight in all brands except Wai Wai has been found to be above the declared weight. In the case of Wai Wai, the difference between the declared value and the actual value was within the permissible limit.

    Lead (as Pb)

    Lead is a toxicant that affects multiple body systems, including your liver and kidneys in particular. It is especially harmful to infant and pregnant women as it can cause damage to the central nervous system in children. It shall be not more than 2.5-mg/kg. Lead has been found between 0.2 to 0.8-mg/kg. However, all the brands have been found well within the specified standard limit.

    Arsenic (as As)

    Arsenic can have immediate toxic effects. Ingestion of large amounts can lead to gastrointestinal symptoms such as severe vomiting, disturbances of the blood and circulation, damage to the nervous system, and eventually death. It shall not be more than 1.1-mg/kg. All brands we found below the detection limit (LOQ-0.1mg/kg).

    Mercury (as Hg)

    The inhalation of mercury can cause neurological and behavioural disorders, such as tremors, emotional instability, insomnia, memory loss, neuromuscular changes and headaches. They can also harm the kidneys and thyroid. High exposures can lead to death.
    It shall not be more than 1.0mg/kg. All brands have mercury level below the detection limit (LOQ-0.1mg/ kg).

    Packing

    The material shall be packed in moisture- proof material or in suitable plastic film or moisture proof bags sealed to prevent ingress of moisture. The material has been packed in poly packs and sealed to prevent ingress of moisture.

    Marking

    Each container shall be legibly and indelibly marked with the following:
    a) Name of the material
    b) Name and address of the manufacturer/ packer
    c) Batch or code number
    d) Net weight
    e) Date of manufacturer
    f) Green/red dot mark
    g) Nutritional information
    h) Best Before
    i) MRP
    j) Direction for preparation
    k) List of ingredients
    l) FSSAI license number
    m) Customer care details

    We found all brands with necessary marking requirements.

    Conclusion

    We purchased five brands of instant masala noodles from the retail markets. We tested the brands on various parameters including total protein, acid-insoluble ash, acid value, fat, carbohydrate, cooking time, sodium and toxic metals. We assigned high weightage (25 per cent) to the sensory tests which includes colour/appearance, taste, flavour/aroma, texture and overall acceptance parameters.
    Brand Maggi has topped in overall score and therefore ranked number 1 followed by Wai Wai, Top Ramen and Smith & Jones. Maggi was mostly preferred in sensory panel tests followed by Smith & Jones and Top Ramen. Toxic metals as lead, arsenic and aflatoxin have been found well within the specified limits. All the brands have met the standard requirement. However, as noodles are added with saturated fat and salt, limited consumption is suggested.

    Facts about instant noodles

    • High salt is added to noodles through the seasoning supplied in sachets. So, reduce the sodium content by using the minimum amount of seasoning, preferably half of the sachets.
    • Instant noodles can serve as snacks but not as main meals. Limit the consumption.

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    How banks charge you for using these

    How banks charge you for using these

    by | Aug 14, 2021 | debit card

    How banks charge you for using these

    As a banking product, debit cards have gained in popularity over recent years, with more and more consumers swiping these more and more. Sample this – while debit-card usage in ATMs dropped by 18 per cent between August 2013 and August 2018, its usage at point-of-sale (PoS) outlets increased by 200 per cent during the same period. At the same time, this is also true that when a certain product begins to be used extensively, the negative features/fallouts come to the fore. In the following report, we will focus on these aspects and also assess the various banks’ offerings on some standard parameters.

    For this study, we chose private banks mainly because they are more aggressive in their approach in providing latest technologies to customers, as compared to nationalized banks. Among the private banks, we considered their people-to-bank network ratio in the country as measured in the number of branches serving customers. Narrowing it down, we selected those private banks that were operating more than 500 branches in India.

    What are e-payments?

    An e-payment system is a way of making transactions or paying for goods and services through an electronic medium, without the use of cheque or cash. It’s also referred to as an electronic payment system or online payment system.

    The final 12 banks were compared on their charges, if any, for services/facilities such as card issue, annual maintenance, PoS transactions, transactions per month at ATMs (own bank), ATM-transaction fee (beyond limit), international card-transaction fee, renewal of card, and issue of duplicate card/PIN. We gave the highest weightage (20 points) to customer feedback, which also helped in determining the most important and beneficial variables. These variables have a direct bearing on the product structure. Our questionnaire covering various features of banks’ debit cards received responses from more than 500 customers.

    In India, total debit cards in circulation as on November 2017 was 731,332,595 and this grew to 805,522,146 as on August 2018, thereby registering about 109% growth. Consequent growth in rupee value was 2,492,721.70 Mn (November 2017), as against 2,759,761.00 Mn (August 2018), which is a jump of 109.67%.

    CV Recommendations

    Best Buy

    Yes Bank

    Good Buy

    Tamilnad Mercantile Bank

    Fair Buy

    Karur Vysya Bank

    E-PAYMENTS THROUGH DEBIT CARDS: A COMPARATIVE CHART

    CV Weightage Points (100) e-Payments thru Debit Card Yes Bank Tamilnad Mercantile Bank Karur Vysya Bank Federal Bank Lakshmi Vilas Bank Karnataka Bank HDFC Bank Axis Bank IndusInd Bank City Union South Indian Bank Bandhan Bank
    10 Card-issue fee 149 (4) Nil (10) 125 (7) Nil (10) Nil (10) Nil (10) NS (0) Nil (10) 249 (2) Nil (10) 200 (2) 200 (2)
    10 Annual-maintenance fee 149 (4) 100 (7) 175 (2) 150 (4) 100 (7) 150 (4) 200 (2) Nil (10) 249 (2) NS (0) 200 (2) 200 (2)
    5 Renewal of card fee 149 (3) NS (0) Nil (5) Nil (5) NS (0) NS (0) 200 (1) NS (0) 249 (1) Nil (5) NS (0) NS (0)
    5 Issue  of duplicate PIN fee 50 (3) 50 Nil (5) 50 (3) 100 (1) NS (0) 50 (3) Nil (5) 20 (3) NS (0) 100 (1) NS (0)
    5 Duplicate-card fee 149 (3) 200 (3) 100 (5) 300 (1) 200 (3) 100 (5) 200 (3) NS (0) 249 (1) 250 (1) NS (0) NS (0)
    10 PoS transaction charge (%) NS (0) Nil (10) NS (0) 2.5 (5) NS (0) 2.5 (5) Nil (10) NS (0) NS (0) NS (0) NS (0) NS (0)
    10 Free transactions per month at ATMs (own bank) (no.) Free (10) Free (10) Free (10) NS (0) Free (10) 8 (7) 5 (4) 4 (1) Free (10) NS (0) NS (0) Free (10)
    10 Free transactions per month at other banks’ ATMs (no.) 5 (4) 5 (4) 5 (4) Free (10) 3 (1) 8 (7) 3 (1) 4 (2) 5 (4) 5 (4) 5 (4) 5 (4)
    5 ATM transaction fee (beyond limit) 20  (3) 20  (3) 20  (3) 20  (3) 18 (5) 20  (3) 20  (3) NS (0) 20  (3) 20  (3) 20  (3) 20  (3)
    5 International card-transaction fee (cash withdrawal) 120 (5) 100 (5) 125 (5) 100 (5) 100 (5) 150 (2) 110 (5) NS (0) 125 (5) NS (0) 150 (2) 125 (2)
    5 International card-transaction fee (balance enquiry) 20 (5) NS (0) 25 (2) 25 (2) 25 (2) 25 (2) 25 (2) NS (0) NS (0) NS (0) 25 (2) 25 (2)
    20 Customer feedback 18 6 5 3 4 2 10 8 3 6 2 1
    Total 62 61 53 51 48 47 44 36 34 29 18 29

    Notes:

    a) Information given here has been sourced from banks’ websites and brochures as on 03-12-2018.

    b) Unless specified otherwise, all figures are in rupees.

    c) NS – not specified

    d) For the purposes of this study, we have considered only those private banks that have 500 or more branches in India.

    e) The figures mentioned above pertain to metropolitan branches.

    f) In many banks the GST is included in service charges and is hence not specified here.

    g) Charges for services described differently in nomenclature are grouped under major heads.

    There are usually two types of charges on a debit card. One is the annual fee that a bank charges for issuing the card to the customer. The other is the convenience fee that is charged at merchant outlets for swiping the card at a point-of-sale (POS) terminal.
    A customer is entitled to eight free monthly transactions at an ATM (five at their home bank ATMs and three at non- home bank ATMs) in a metro city. Thereafter, a bank charge is levied on each ATM transaction.

    The Advantages in Digital Transactions

    1. The biggest advantage is convenience. Customers can pay for items on an e-commerce website at anytime and anywhere. They just need an internet-connected device. 
    2. Lower transaction costs and decreased technology costs make it more convenient and simple.
    3. Transactions are made in seconds without wasting customer’s time. 
    4. One can always check their virtual account and keep track of their transaction history.
    5. One can reach more clients from all over the world, resulting in more sales.

    And the Limitations 

    1. Difficult for a non-technical person: Most of the digital payment modes are based on mobile phones, the internet and cards. These modes may be somewhat difficult for a layperson to understand and accept.
    2. The risk of data theft: Hackers can attack the servers of the bank or the e-wallet you are using and get your personal information. They can use this information to steal money from your account.
    3. Overspending: You keep limited cash in your physical wallet and may think twice before buying anything. In digital payment modes, you have all your money with you always. This can result in overspending.

    Do These

    • Sign immediately on receipt of the debit card (at the back).
    • Change the PIN at frequent intervals. 
    • During PoS transactions, ensure that all relevant details are correct before putting your PIN number so that the card does not get declined (some banks make it applicable for international
      transactions).
    • Use the debit card only on reputed websites, be it for using through the internet or through a
      POS.
    • Retain the transaction confirmation receipt after using the debit card.
    • Be sure to check the card statement and report immediately to your bank if you find any transaction that is suspicious in nature or has not been authorized by you.
    • Keep the bank’s phone number handy in case of a lost/stolen debit card so that the card can be immediately blocked from misuse.
    • Link your mobile number/email to your debit card/bank account. 

    Not Any of These, though

    • Do not click on the ‘save’ option for storing card details and/or password, as it can become accessible to accidental users.
    • Avoid using computers at cyber cafes or at any other public place for online transactions.
    • Do not respond to, or continue a call from, any number that requires you to disclose card/account details or any other vital information, as none of the banks would ring you up/send email for seeking such information.
    • Avoid obvious/easy-to-guess PIN numbers – for example, car number, date of birth, house
      number.
    • Do not lend your debit card to anyone as this card is non-transferable and there is no guarantee that the user will keep it secure.
    • Do not immediately throw the charge transaction slip generated by an ATM; carry it with you and throw it somewhere else. This will ensure that scamsters/fraudsters do not misuse the details available in the slip.

    Banks have introdu+ced chip-enabled credit/debit cards to enhance data security. Customers need to contact their banks and complete the formalities for exchanging their old cards for the new chip-based debit cards.

    Fraudulent Transactions and Liability of the Cardholder 

    Reserve Bank of India, in its circular dated 06.07.2017, spelled out zero liability and limited liability.

    • Zero liability

    A customer’s entitlement to zero liability shall arise in the following events:

    1. Contributory fraud/negligence/deficiency lies on the part of the bank
    2. Third-party breach where the deficiency lies neither with the bank nor with the customer but lies elsewhere in the system, and where the customer notifies the bank within three working days of receiving the communication from the bank regarding the unauthorized transaction
    • Limited liability

    A customer shall be liable for the loss occurring due to unauthorized transactions as under:

    1. Negligence by customer: Cases where the loss is due to negligence by a customer, such as where he has shared the payment credentials, the customer will bear the entire loss until he reports the unauthorized transaction to the bank. Any loss occurring after the reporting of this unauthorized transaction shall be borne by the bank.
    2. Delay in reporting or customer’s liability is not proved: Cases where the responsibility for the unauthorized transaction lies neither with the bank nor with the customer, but lies elsewhere in the system, and where there is a delay (of 4 to 7 working days after receiving the communication from the bank) on the part of the customer in notifying the bank of such a transaction, the per-transaction liability of the customer shall be as delineated in the accompanying table.
      Type of Account Maximum Liability (Rs)
      Basic SB deposit accounts 5,000
      All other SB accounts, prepaid

      payment instruments and gift cards, etc.

      		  

      10,000
      All other accounts and credit cards (above particular limits) 25,000

      Summary of Customer’s Liability

       

      Time Taken for Reporting Fraudulent Transaction Customer’s Liability (Rs)
      Within 3 working days 0
      Within 4–7 working days The transaction value or the amount as mentioned in the table below (on maximum liability), whichever is lower
      Beyond 7 working days As per bank’s board-approved policy

       

      Reversal Timeline for Zero Liability/Limited Liability of Customer

      • On being notified by a customer, the bank shall credit (or by reversal of debit) the amount of unauthorized transaction back to the customer’s account within 10 days without waiting for the settlement of insurance claim, if any. The credit or reversal of debit shall be value-dated so as not to cause loss of bank interest to the customer on the transaction. Banks may also at their discretion decide to waive off any customer liability even in cases of customer negligence.
      • Where the bank is unable to resolve the complaint or determine the customer liability within 90 days, it will be liable to pay compensation (the like amount of the alleged unauthorized transaction) to the customer.
      • The customer is also entitled to no loss on account of bank interest on the unauthorized transaction (in case of debit cards).

      Shape of Things to Come?

      • Mobile wallets will soon be linked to your bank account so that there is a two-way funds transfer between them (loading mobile wallets through debit to bank account, and vice versa).
      • The quick response code (QR Code) is going to be the future app for all payments in merchandise purchases, as merchants accepting QR code will have to shell out only Rs 50 (a PoS machine can set a merchant back by Rs 6,000 to Rs 10,000).
      • Plastic cards (credit/debit/ATM cards) may soon be replaced by Aadhaar-enabled payment systems (AEPS) wherein all you will have to do is affix your fingerprint(s) after feeding your Aadhaar number to withdraw/conduct cash/transactions.
      • Some banks have already introduced the finger-identified system in their in-house ATMs, though on a smaller scale, which in future could be the norm for conducting ATM transactions.
      • Voice recognition may also become the future norm in personal identification processes.

      Takeaways

      1. Choose a debit card that can be used globally if you are a frequent traveller abroad.
      2. Choose one where there is no annual fee or a minimum annual fee.
      3. Go for a debit card with a bank where there is an effective grievance redressal mechanism.

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      Credit and debit cards

      Credit and debit cards

      by | Aug 14, 2021 | Banking & Finance

      Credit and debit cards Today life is about credit and debit!
      curd
      Even 10 years before having a credit card or a debiit card was considered a welathy choice. It has become an essential and almost mandatory commodity these days. All banks issue credit and debit cards to their customers. Charges vary from bankand bank. Consumer VOICE financial experts analyse various cards from time to time.

      Reviews

        January 2019
      Articles
      There are various types of credit cards when you apply for credit card and you are offered one based on your needs and repayment power.
      If you are a credit card owner there is a chance that you may be subject to credit card frauds like thousands of others around the world.
      A credit card offers unlimited financial freedom. But as all freedom, a credit card too comes with its own set of responsibilities.
      If you are an Indian consumer who often wonders is it safe to shop online with a debit card then you should know the answer is yes.
      If you have never used a debit card before and you have questions like how to use a debit card online or how to use a debit card online safely, then you must read on.
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      Instant Noodles

      Instant Noodles

      by | Aug 14, 2021 | Food

      Instant Noodles

      Young and old – instant noodles are always a favourite. Just pour, wait and enjoy!

      curd

      Instant noodles are pre-cooked noodles sold with a flavouring powder.

      The flavoring is usually in a separate packet, although in the case of cup noodles, the flavoring is often loose in the cup.

      It’s a geasy-to-prepare food. Either for evening hunger or late night hunger pangs – instant noodles have always come to our rescue.

      Reviews

        July 2021

        June 2021

      Articles

      Most of us eat noodles almost every week or month because they are tasty, convenient and a filling option.

      If you haven’t been living in a cave since the last few centuries, it is very likely that you have heard of or have experienced eating instant noodles at least once in your lifetime.

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      Table Butter-More milk fat, less salt – that’s how it should be

      Table Butter-More milk fat, less salt – that’s how it should be

      by | Aug 8, 2021 | butter

      Table Butter-More milk fat, less salt – that’s how it should be

      Instant Noodles
      Nutritionally speaking, your table butter has roughly 80 per cent milk fat (mostly saturated), 12 to 16 per cent water, 2 per cent nonfat milk solids (lactose, protein), and 2 to 3 per cent added salt. It is the most concentrated of dairy products, containing about 740 kilocalories per 100 grams (210 kilocalories per ounce). Butter is a good source of vitamin A and has a little bit of vitamin D as well. Of all of these attributes, which have the most say in determining the quality of the said butter, you may wonder. So, here we are, evaluating seven brands of table butter on attributes as per their importance and relevance. Since so much butter is not good for one’s health, what with the saturated fats in it, one will be well advised to choose a brand that meets the basic quality requirements specified in the food standards, especially with regard to fat, solids not fat, moisture and salt. The findings from our test results will reveal, among other things, whether the brands have the minimum 80 per cent milk fat as specified by the food standards. We tested the seven brands on a range of quality, safety and acceptability parameters. These included milk fat, milk solids not fat, curd, moisture, acidity and common salt. The brands were further subjected to adulteration tests, microbiological tests and sensory tests.

      How We Test

      The brand samples of eight table butter brands have been tested following the FSSAI requirements and BIS standard IS: 13690 specifications for pasteurised butter. Consumer VOICE tested the eight regular selling brands on a range of quality, safety and acceptability parameters. These included milk fat, milk solids not fat, curd, moisture, acidity and common salt. The brands have been further tested to qualify adulteration, microbiological and sensory tests. We followed the standard test methods at a NABL-accredited laboratory.

      BRANDS TESTED

      RankTotal Score out of 100 (rounded off)BrandMRP (Rs)Net Weight (gm)Price (Rs) per 100 gmBest before (months)Manufactured/Marketed by
      193Vita441004412The Rohtak Co-Op Milk Producers Union Ltd
      291Verka46100468The Punjab State Co- Operative Milk Producers Federation Ltd
      389DMS2105004212Delhi Milk Scheme
      487Mother Dairy461004612Mother Dairy Fruits & Vegetable Pvt. Ltd
      487Gowardhan802004012Parag Milk Foods Pvt. Ltd
      586Amul461004612Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation Ltd
      684Paras2255004512VRS Foods Pvt. Ltd

      Score Rating: >90: excellent*****, 71–90: very good****, 51–70: good***, 31–50: average**, up to 30: poor*

      CV Recommendations

      Top Performer

      Vita

      Value for Money Brand

      DMS

      Key findings

      • Based on the overall test findings, Vita is the top performer and is followed by Verka and DMS. • Based on the overall test findings, Vita is the top performer and is followed by Verka and DMS. • The value-for-money brand is DMS.• Vita and Verka had the highest fat content. • DMS and Vita had lowest amounts of SNF (solids not fat). • Moisture was lowest in Vita and Verka. • All the brands met all requirements specified in the Food Safety & Standards Regulations. • All brands cleared the tests for microbiological safety and are therefore safe for consumption. • In sensory panel tests, Amul is the top performer and is followed by Mother Dairy and Vita.

      What is butter?

      Butter is the smooth, fatty substance obtained from churning cream. Butter manufacturers first pasteurise the cream. This heat treatment destroys bacteria, inactivates enzymes, and gives the cream a cooked or heated flavour.

      What is table butter?

      Table butter is the product made from pasteurized cream obtained from milk and milk products, with or without ripening with the use of standard lactic culture, addition of common salt, annatto or carotene as colouring matter, and diacetyl as flavouring agent.

      What is white butter?

      White butter is the product made from pasteurized cream obtained from milk and milk products, without ripening and without addition of any preservative including common salt, any added colouring matter, or any added flavouring agent.
      TEST RESULTS FOR PHYSICOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS Milk Fat | Milk Solids Not Fat | Curd | Reichert Meissl Value of Extracted Fat | Butyro- refractometer Reading of Extracted Fat | Moisture | Acidity | Common Salt

      Milk Fat

      As per the national standards, the minimum requirement for milk fat in table butter is 80 per cent. As per the national standards, the minimum requirement for milk fat in table butter is 80 per cent. • Fat percentage was above the minimum requirement in all brands. • Vita and Verka (83.9 per cent each) had the highest fat content, followed by DMS (82.8 per cent).  
      Fat is an essential part of any balanced diet, providing essential fatty acids, fat-soluble vitamins and a concentrated source of energy. It is a major constituent of butter. As per Dietary Guidelines for Indians by National Institute of Nutrition, Hyderabad, 2011, diets of young children and adolescents should contain about 30 grams to 50 grams fat per day. So, a higher amount of milk fat is better for consumers.

      Milk solids not fat (SNF)

      SNF in table butter shall be a maximum two per cent as per FSS Regulations.SNF in table butter shall be a maximum two per cent as per FSS Regulations. • SNF was found within the permissible limit (0.4 per cent to 1.4 per cent) in all brands. • DMS (0.4 per cent) had lowest amount of SNF and therefore scored highest. It was followed by Vita (0.7 per cent).  
      Milk has mainly two parts: fat and solids not fat (SNF). Apart from fat, all other solids such as vitamins, minerals, protein and lactose together make up SNF.

      Curd

      Curd shall be a maximum 1.0 per cent as per Indian Standard and 1.5 per cent as per AGMARK.Curd shall be a maximum 1.0 per cent as per Indian Standard and 1.5 per cent as per AGMARK. • Curd was highest in Amul and Paras (both 1.3 per cent) and lowest in DMS (0.4 per cent) and Vita (0.7 per cent).
      The adulteration tests
      • Reichert-Meissl (RM) value of extracted fat
      The RM value is ascertained when examining fat. It determines adulteration.
      • All tested brands met the requirement set by FSS
      • Butyro-refractometer (BR) reading of extracted fat
      BR reading can be used to check adulteration, if any, of milk fat. An increase in BR reading indicates adulteration with vegetable oil. If BR reading diverges from the prescribed limit for variability, presence of foreign fat may be suspected
      • All brands were within the specified limits set by FSS

      Moisture

      The maximum permissible limit for moisture in table butter is 16 per cent.The maximum permissible limit for moisture in table butter is 16 per cent. • Moisture in all brands was within specified limit. • Vita (13.7 per cent) and Verka (13.8 per cent) had the lowest amounts of moisture. This is good for consumers.
      The presence of moisture is inherent in butter processing and to some extent is good for maintaining the taste and odour. But an excess of moisture compromises the quality of the butter.

      Acidity

      Acidity shall be a maximum 0.15 per cent as per Indian Standards. • All brands were found within the specified limit.
      Acidity is due to lactic acid produced by the action of bacteria. As acidity increases with storage time, this parameter is a means of checking storage conditions.

      Common salt

      Salt should be a maximum three per cent in table butter as per FSS Regulations. • All the brands had salt and tasted salty. Salt was found lowest in Verka (1.5 per cent) and highest in Mother Dairy (2.1 per cent).
      Salt is added in butter as a preservative and also as a taste and flavour enhancer. Salt must be homogenously mixed during the processing of butter to give it a uniform taste.

      PHYSICOCHEMICAL SCORES

      Parameter Weightage
      (%)      		VitaVerkaDMSMother DairyGowardhanAmulParas
      Milk fat3027.3627.3624.7223.5223.2823.7622.80
      Milk solids not fat87.046.807.766.806.805.605.36
      Curd65.525.286.004.804.803.843.84
      Reichert Meissl value of extracted fat66.004.805.705.555.705.405.52
      Butyro-refractometer reading of extracted fat65.525.105.225.645.705.825.70
      Moisture54.154.103.553.603.503.853.50
      Acidity (as lactic acid)43.683.363.843.683.843.683.84
      Common salt as NaCI32.582.702.462.342.402.402.64

      Microbiological activity in your butter

      Microbiological activity in your butterMicrobiological contamination is a serious issue for milk and milk products. Microorganisms are responsible for many food-borne diseases. We conducted tests as per FSS Regulations, for yeast and mould count, aerobic plate count, coliform count, E. coli, S. aureus, Salmonella and Listeria monocytogenes. • All the brands passed in these tests.

      FOR SENSORY ATTRIBUTES

      The samples were judged by an expert panel on these attributes: a) colour, b) appearance, c) flavour,d) body and texture, and e) packaging. The test guidelines were as prescribed in Indian Standard 7769-1975. • Amul was the top performer and was followed by Mother Dairy and Vita.• DMS scored lowest. • Amul was rated best on flavour.

      BrandScore out of 12
      Amul11.76
      Mother Dairy11.54
      Vita11.39
      Verka11.32
      Paras11.16
      Gowardhan11.08
      DMS10.46

      • Amul and Vita had very good packing. DMS was wrapped only in butter paper and was given the lowest score.

      Packing and Marking

      Packing should be proper because it protects the product from deterioration and increases its shelf life. Each pack should also carry information about the characteristics of the product and/or the claims of the manufacturer. The samples were verified against the marking requirements as given in the relevant Indian Standards. • Except DMS, all brands were wrapped in printed butter paper and packed in hard paper box. DMS was wrapped in butter paper only. • DMS did not carry the green dot and customer- care details. • Net weight was found to be above the declared quantity in all the brands. • Amul and Vita had AGMARK.
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