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Cow’s milk brought home is not mixed with detergent? Find out in a simple test

Sandy Verma July 18, 2026 01:24 AM

The fake milk case of Maharashtra has spread sensation! Adulterated ‘synthetic milk’ has been found to contain palm oil, cheap powdered milk, even detergent ingredients! Allegedly, more than 2.3 crore liters of suspected adulterated milk reached the market in the last six months. In addition to reduced nutritional value, adulterated milk can also increase the risk of digestive problems, kidney and liver damage, and other long-term physical complications.

Naturally, the Bengali frowned. Most households have regular cow’s milk (Think Your Milk Is Pure?). Milk is used in almost every home for tea or breakfast, or to make sour yogurt for the day. A glass of milk means nourishment – the belief has been around for ages. But how do you know that the milk coming home is really pure?

Pure milk is thicker, more liquid than adulterated milk.

1. Is water mixed with milk?

Drop a drop of milk on a smooth surface like glass or tiles. Then stand it straight. Pure milk will slowly come down and leave a white spot. Milk mixed with water will curdle quickly and will not stain.

2. Is there added starch in the milk?

Add a few drops of iodine solution to two tablespoons of milk. If the color is blue, there is a possibility of starch. If the color does not change, there is little chance of starch.

3. Does milk contain detergent?

Take equal amounts of milk and water in a clear glass and shake well. If the foam is too thick, detergent may have been added. If the foam is normal and disappears quickly, the milk is said to be pure.

4. Is there a difference in smell and taste?

Synthetic milk often has a strong soapy smell. The smell of pure milk is mild and natural. Be wary of a soapy smell or the slightest bitter taste.

5. Have you seen boiling milk?

While heating the milk, observe whether it has thickened unusually quickly. Or did it acquire a light yellowish color after heating? Such changes may indicate adulteration.

Think Your Milk Is Pure? Here's How to Test It at Home — If soapy smell comes to the nose, be aware immediately.

What to do to avoid adulterated milk?

Buy milk from a trusted dairy. Check the seal of the packet, date of manufacture and expiry. Be sure of the source when buying unopened milk. If in doubt report to local food safety authority.

Remember, these home tests can give a rough idea, but they are not scientific or definitive proof. Chemical testing by an approved laboratory is required to accurately detect adulteration.