Also known as clarified butter, desi ghee is almost an inevitable ingredient in Indian households. Ghee is brushed generously over rotis and parathas, poured on rice and pualo and even used in dal and other vegetables. A jar of desi ghee is almost a must in the kitchen. But which is the best one? Which brand of desi ghee will give you more value? Consumer VOICE has made the task easier by evaluating top 12 brands of desi ghee and identifying the best one for you.
Why has ghee gained popularity
Ghee is said to have some anti-cancer properties and also an important carrier of fat soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) and essential fatty-acids. Ghee is believed to be capable of increasing mental power, physical appearance, curative of ulcers and eye diseases. However, ghee is ultimately a form of fat, so moderate use of ghee is always recommended.
Testing of Ghee by Consumer VOICE
The prime objective behind carrying out the comparative study was to assess and evaluate the popular brands of desi ghee available in the market as per the relevant national standard. All the tested brands were evaluated and graded as per their overall performance based on the comprehensive lab test reports. The brands were being tested on various quality, safety and acceptability parameters.
The key parameters for which the ghee brands were tested included milk fat, R M value, BR Reading, Moisture, Per oxide value, Free fatty acid, vitamins A and saturated fat, PUFA, MUFA, cholesterol and trans fat. We also carried out a series of tests to check for adulteration (with vanaspati, animal fats, etc.).
Some known and unknown facts of desi ghee
- Ghee should be free from excess moisture.
- On melting, the ghee should be clear, transparent and free from sediment or foreign colouring matter.
- A good ghee sample should have well-developed granules dispersed fairly, thickly and uniformly over the entire mass. A bright yellow colour, caused by the presence of carotenoid pigments (beta carotene), is associated with cow ghee and constitutes a desirable criterion in areas where it is preferred. Buffalo ghee is white in colour. Sometimes, it may also have a greenish tinge depending on the region and feeding schedule. Ghee made from mixed milk has a straw-yellow colour. The colour of fats always appears deeper to the eyes when melted than when in solid form.
Physical observations on the 12 samples were made by laboratory scientists, checking for colour and texture and whether they were free from sediment and objectionable flavour.
The brands which were tested in government approved labs include Anik, Paras, Milkfood, Madhusudhan, Fresh & Pure, Nestle, Mother Dairy, Verka, Amul, Heritage, Ananda and Britannia. They were tested based on parameters like Trans fats, Saturated fats, Cholesterol, Vitamin A, and Milk Fat among others. Though all brands have met the standard requirement and are safe for consumption, yet to know the best, get the latest copy of Consumer VOICE Magazine.
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