Benefits And Limitations of Chinese Garlic

Garlic is a health-friendly herb required by the body if consumed in limited quantities. Most of the garlic distributed worldwide comes from China and is considered beneficial. Chinese garlic has various benefits, such as weight loss and relief from acid reflux or heartburn.

However, according to some reports, garlic from China is not considered ideal, and some moderation is needed in its consumption, according to experts.

Here, we have provided all the essential information about whether you should consume Chinese garlic and how to differentiate Chinese garlic from American.

Is Chinese Garlic Safe to Eat?

Before we go further on this topic, it is important to understand that even though other countries produce garlic, most of the garlic distributed worldwide comes from China. It is essential to exercise caution when consuming garlic from China (R), as it may lead to some health conditions.

In the United States, around 80% of garlic comes from China, with the rest produced in California. The quality of Californian garlic is considered much better than that grown in China.

Chinese garlic is not considered safe, as farmers in China use pesticides, including parathion and phorate, that are illegal elsewhere. These pesticides are used to grow crops with less effort and time. Remember that both pesticides are considered highly toxic to humans.

The soil in farms in China is also a cause for concern. According to reports, much of China’s soil contains metals such as cadmium and arsenic, along with high levels of harmful fertilizers and pesticides. The water in China’s rivers is also contaminated with household waste and toxic chemicals released by industries.

It is better to purchase garlic from local farmers, or you can also grow garlic at home, which is much safer.

How to Identify Chinese vs. American Garlic

• Roots
• • Chinese Garlic: It has no roots at the bottom. It comes with just a smooth, clean spot.
  • American Garlic: It has roots left on the base as there’s no need to be removed.
• Weight
  • Chinese Garlic: It is lighter and less dense.
  • American Garlic: It feels heavier and firmer.
• Clove Count and Size
  • Chinese Garlic: It has around 10-12 smaller cloves per bulb.
  • American Garlic: It has around 4-6 larger cloves per bulb.
• Flavor
  • Chinese Garlic: It tastes sharper or metallic.
  • American Garlic: It tastes milder, with a sweeter and more balanced flavor.
• Bulb Shape and Appearance
  • Chinese Garlic: Bulbs are less bulbous and look smaller than domestic ones.
  • American Garlic: Typically has larger, fuller bulbs when sourced from local farmers.
• Brix Flavor Measurement
  • Chinese Garlic: Scores only 28 out of 40.
  • American Garlic: Local garlic scores better.

These quick checks will help you identify garlic origin. However, we suggest you buy locally from farmer’s markets to ensure American garlic.

Conclusion

Garlic has many health benefits, including helping in weight loss, reducing acid reflux, and easing cold symptoms. However, the usage of pesticides and contamination of the soil in Chinese farming is worrisome. The use of banned pesticides and heavy metals raises questions about their safety compared to locally grown alternatives.

Consume Chinese garlic in moderation, or better yet, look for locally sourced or homegrown garlic. Always get medical advice before increasing garlic intake, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking any medications, to avoid adverse reactions and ensure safe use.

• Aug 2017
  Written by Prajakt K
• Nov 2024
  Edited by Lakshmi Gayatri