If you suspect your rice might be fake, here are a few tests you can per

1. The Water T

Ho
Fill a glass with cold water. Add a tablespoon of rice and stir.

What to expect:
Real rice will sink to the bottom. If a significant amount of rice floats, it could indicate impurities — though it doesn’t automatically mean plastic. Lightweight starch residue or poor-quality rice may also float.

2. The Hot Oil Test

How to do it:
Heat a small amount of cooking oil in a pan. Add a few grains of rice.

What to expect:
Real rice will fry and turn brown gradually. Plastic grains may melt or clump, releasing a synthetic smell — a clear sign that something is wrong.

3. The Burn Test

How to do it:
Using a lighter or match, carefully apply a flame to a few grains of rice.

What to expect:
Real rice will char but not catch fire easily. Plastic rice may emit a strong chemical odor and melt or burn with a distinctive black smoke.

4. The Mold Test

How to do it:
Cook a small batch of rice and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for several days.

What to expect:
Real rice will spoil and develop mold after a few days. Plastic rice will not mold and may remain unchanged — another red flag.

Additional Tips to Avoid Fake Rice

• Buy from trusted sources — Stick to reputable brands and well-known stores. Cheap, unbranded rice sold in informal markets is more likely to be tampered with.

• Check packaging — Legitimate packaging includes clear labeling, manufacturing and expiry dates, and certifications.

• Look for inconsistencies — Examine the grains: real rice should be relatively uniform. If you notice an unusual shine, a plastic-like texture, or grains of varying sizes and colors, be cautious.

The Bottom Line

While the idea of ​​plastic rice is frightening, it remains a rare phenomenon and is often sensationalized. Most unusual rice behavior is due to poor processing, old grains, or excessive starch — not synthetic substitutes.

That said, being informed and proactive helps ensure you and your family consume safe, high-quality food. Use the simple tests above if you have doubts, and always choose reputable sources for your rice.

When in doubt, trust your senses:
Odd smell, texture, or appearance? It’s better to be safe and avoid questionable rice.