Banned Chinese garlic finds its way to the Indian market; here’s how they differ from local produce

Despite being banned in 2014, Chinese garlic still finds its way to the Indian market. According to reports, traders in Gujarat’s Rajkot recently staged a day-long protest after several bags of Chinese garlic were found at Gondal Agriculture Produce Market Cooperative (APMC). “We are protesting against the illegal manner in which Chinese garlic is finding its way into India, despite a ban,” Yogesh Kayada, president of the traders’ association at Gondal APMC, told PTI.

The report added that Chinese garlic is distinct owing to its size and smell and is cheaper than the local crop, which makes it “profitable for smugglers and agents.”

Notably, China is the world’s largest producer of garlic.

Let’s understand more about Chinese garlic and how it differs from its Indian counterpart

Garlic, considered a “magical spice or condiment,” enhances the flavour of any dish. Also known as Allium sativum, it is grown throughout the country, said Jinal Patel, dietitian at Zynova Shalby Hospital.

Sharing the differences between Chinese and Indian garlics, she said: “Nowadays, apart from Indian, even Chinese garlic is available in the market. However, people don’t know the difference between the two. Chinese garlic is light white and pink and smaller in size. Indian garlic has a strong and pungent smell, while Chinese garlic has a mild aroma,” said Patel.

It’s important to take precautions (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

According to Patel, Indian garlic is grown with minimal chemicals and is safe for consumption. “Unfortunately, Chinese garlic is grown with the integration of modern farming techniques that involve heavy usage of chemicals and pesticides. Hence, Chinese garlic is not at all safe for consumption for health and overall well-being. Chinese garlic also contains synthetic substances that can be hazardous,” Patel said.

She stressed consuming Indian garlic over the Chinese one as it is packed with natural flavours and cultivated in the country with the use of traditional farming practices.

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