Don't buy fake: how to distinguish real red caviar from fake

Red caviar has long been an integral part of the festive table, a symbol of luxury and refined taste. However, the growing popularity of this delicacy has led to a massive proliferation of counterfeits that can not only disappoint consumers but also harm their health.

Every year, hundreds of tons of counterfeit disguised as a quality product appear on the market, and unscrupulous manufacturers are increasingly using chemical additives or cheap substitutes.

The FoodOboz editorial team will tell you how to recognize natural caviar among low-quality counterparts and not make a mistake in your choice. You can easily check the product at home.

The main characteristics of natural red caviar

• Appearance

Natural caviar: the grains have a uniform color, a transparent shell, and a solid structure. The eggs vary slightly in size.

Fake: often unnaturally bright or dull in color. The grains are the same size, sometimes with an artificial sheen.

• Taste

Natural caviar: moderately salty, with a mild fishy flavor.

Fake: may be too salty, leaving a chemical or gelatinous aftertaste.

• Flavor

Natural: light, fresh fish flavor.

Fake: pungent or chemical odor.

• Texture

Natural caviar: "bursts" when pressed, releasing its liquid contents.

Artificial caviar: chews without making a characteristic sound.Home checks

How to check if caviar is real in water

Put a few eggs in a glass of warm water. Natural caviar will remain intact, and the water will become slightly cloudy. The fake will dissolve, leaving oily spots.

Heating

Natural caviar will not change when heated. A fake will start to melt or lose its shape.

Checking with ultraviolet light

Natural caviar has a moderate reddish glow, while artificial caviar glows unnaturally bright.

How to choose quality caviar in the store

Check the packaging. Choose a product in a glass or metal container with a clear indication of date of manufacture, shelf life, and manufacturer.

Study the composition. Natural caviar contains only caviar, salt, and a minimum of preservatives.

Price

Real caviar cannot be cheap. Too low a price is a reason to doubt the quality.