Confused and worried about buying the fake litchis? Here is a complete guide to identify real and fake litchis at home. Tap to read!
Colour test
Natural litchis are a mix of red, pink, brown and green on their peel. Fake litchis will have the same artificial colour.
Texture and taste test
Real litchis have a coarse texture and the pulp is white and juicy. While the fake litchis will have a coated wax texture with pulp looking dry.
Water test
Add a few litchis to a bowl of clean water. Real litchis will sink and fake litchis will float with a change in the colour of the water.
Smell test
Fake litchis have a distinct or synthetic smell of paint. Real litchis have a mild sweet, and fruity fragrance.
Rub Test
Take a wet tissue or cotton ball and gently rub that over the litchi peel. If the colour comes off, the litchi is fake and synthetically coated.
Look for in-season litchis
Litchis are naturally grown during the summer months from May to July in India. Try to avoid buying chemically ripened, off-season litchis.
Information credits
This information is taken from the Food Safety Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). However, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional regarding any side effects.