Many of you often ask, ‘Your jaggery is so unique, it’s so delicious, we doubt, is it really organic or pure?’ The number of community members who have asked the question is the sole reason for us writing this article today.
Jaggery, also known as “gur”, has been cherished as a natural sweetener for centuries. Its deep hues, ranging from golden amber to rich brown, are often associated with its purity and quality. However, the truth about jaggery’s purity extends far beyond its colour. The journey from sugarcane to jaggery powder involves a meticulous process guided by organic gurh makers who understand the art of perfecting its taste. It is one of the best substitutes for tea.
Beyond its colour, jaggery’s purity depends on many other factors, such as the heating process, the intervals between heating and reheating, the choice of sugarcane variety, and the quality of sugarcane juice. These variables contribute to the distinct quality and flavour profile. In this blog, we dive into the intricate factors that ensure the purity & unique flavour of our jaggery powder.
Source of Raw Material
Like grapes used in winemaking, different sugarcane varieties possess their characteristics, including sweetness, aroma, and flavour. Careful selection of specific sugarcane varieties adds a layer of individuality to the final product. Satopradhan Jaggery Powder is crafted exclusively from sugarcanes cultivated in certified organic fields. However, for a piece of land to be certified as organic, it must undergo continuous organic farming practices for three years. This requirement is known as the “transition period” or the “three-year rule” in organic agriculture.
The three-year rule ensures that the land and its soil are free from residual synthetic pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers, or other prohibited substances commonly used in conventional farming. It takes time for these substances to break down and for the land to regain its natural fertility and biodiversity. This ensures the utmost purity of the sugarcane crop, guarding against any potential contamination.
Processing Techniques
The processing techniques used substantially affect its purity and nutritional value. Often, traditional methods, such as boiling sugarcane juice in large vessels over a slow fire, are preferred, as they help retain the natural goodness of the ingredients without the need for additives or artificial processing agents.
Extraction of Juice
The juice extraction from sugarcane affects the impurities in the juice and, consequently, the purity of the jaggery produced. The juice here is extracted using a traditional sugarcane crusher to prevent contaminants.
Clarification
Many gurh makers add chemicals such as calcium oxide, phosphoric acid or sulfur dioxide to clarify the cane juice. However, in Satopradhan jaggery powder, pure organic okra powder is used for clarification.
Boiling and Evaporation
The duration of boiling and the temperature employed during the jaggery processing are crucial factors that significantly affect the removal of impurities and contribute to the development of its distinctive texture and flavour. Furthermore, intermittent periods of heating and reheating are vital for achieving the unique texture and flavour that jaggery is known for. These intervals allow for the gradual concentration of sugars and the formation of the rich, caramel-like notes that make jaggery a sought-after delicacy
Additives and Adulteration
Unfortunately, adulteration is a challenge in the jaggery market. Some unethical production may add preservatives, additives or artificial colouring agents like Sodium Benzoate (E211), Potassium Sorbate (E202), Sulfur Dioxide (E220), and Sodium Metabisulfite (E223) to enhance the visual appeal or extend shelf life. The presence of additives and adulteration practices can significantly affect the purity of jaggery.
From the steps explained above, the fundamental distinction between organic and commercially produced jaggery lies in the clarification process. Organic jaggery production refrains from employing any harmful chemical agents that could alter its colour, taste, or texture. Instead, only natural substances are used to mitigate acidity.
Hygiene and Storage Conditions
Proper storage and hygiene practices are essential to prevent contamination and maintain jaggery’s purity. Storing jaggery in clean, dry, and well-ventilated areas, away from moisture and direct sunlight, helps preserve its quality.
Packaging Material
The choice of packaging material is significant in ensuring that jaggery remains uncontaminated. Food-grade, non-reactive packaging materials that provide a barrier against external contaminants are essential. Our small variant of jaggery is packaged in 100% compostable and biodegradable eco packaging. This eco-friendly packaging is not only environmentally responsible but also ensures that you can enjoy our jaggery with a clear conscience, knowing that the packaging won’t harm the planet.
For our larger variant of jaggery, we have opted for hermetic bags that are fully recyclable. While we understand the importance of eco-packaging, the weight and size of the larger variant make it challenging due to potential shipping inconveniences. Instead, we encourage our customers who purchase the larger variant to dispose of the packaging responsibly.
Please consider recycling the hermetic bags or, if possible, handing them over to local waste management and recycling companies. By taking these responsible steps, you not only contribute to environmental conservation but also help us minimize the environmental impact of our packaging. Together, we can make a difference in reducing waste and promoting a more sustainable approach to packaging and consumption.
Which Jaggery Should You Choose?
To summarise, organic jaggery is your go-to, healthier choice than its chemical counterparts. But how do you check the purity of the jaggery?
Let’s clear the air about a common misconception: Darker the Jaggery, Purer It Is!
No, the colour alone can’t guarantee purity. There are quite a few myths; let’s debunk them individually.
To enjoy 100% organic, pure jaggery powder – just take a peek at the end of this blog. You’re in for a delightful treat that’s both good for you and for your taste buds.
