How to Tell Real Black Peanuts from Fake Ones: A Simple Rub and Two Looks

Someone bought black peanut kernels at a supermarket for several times the price of ordinary peanuts, only to find that they actually lost color in water, and suspected they had bought dyed peanuts. In response, relevant agricultural experts say that black peanuts do indeed lose color in water, but it is understood that black peanuts are cultivated through genetic mutation in peanuts, belonging to a type of colored peanut, also known as selenium-enriched black peanuts, marketed for containing various nutrients the human body needs and for their good taste.

As to whether black peanuts lose color because they are dyed, the reporter consulted Sun Jian, director of the Crop Management Bureau of the Agriculture Department of Zhejiang Province. Sun Jian said that the outer skin of black peanut kernels is purple-black because it contains natural pigment, which is harmless to human health. The pigment dissolves in water, so black peanut kernels lose color when they meet water, which is a normal phenomenon. But if the color loss is severe, the peanuts may have undergone post-processing.

How do you tell whether black peanuts are real? Sun Jian said, first, rub them with your hands: the pigment of black peanuts dissolves in water but will not stick to your hands. Second, look: first look at the shape of the peanut; black peanuts are slimmer and longer than ordinary peanuts, with pointed ends; you can also peel off the skin and look, because if the peanuts are dyed, the peanut kernels will also be dyed black.

Consumers are advised to choose shelled, fresh black peanuts. If you see very cheap black peanuts in a small shop, everyone should be on their guard. Sun Jian said.

Identify real and fake through one rub and two looks.