Price rise can be the cause adulteration. If you want proof for it, take the case of besan.

Latest market reports say that soaring cost of chana is forcing manufacturers of besan to add cheaper white matar in chana flour to make besan.

The mixing of desi chana and white matar is done at a 50-50 ratio to make besan. Besan or chana flour is a staple component of Indian cuisine and is used in various food items.

Given the soaring price of gram in the domestic as well as international markets, even government agencies are importing larger quantities of white matar (yellow peas), which is available at cheaper rates in global markets.

Government agencies are importing more yellow peas because it is cheaper in global markets and is also a substitute for chana.

Government-owned trading firms STC, MMTC, PEC and NAFED have contracted for 10.375 lakh tonnes of pulses till June 25, of which 7.68 lakh tonnes was of yellow peas.

Private traders have contracted to import 40,000 tonnes of yellow peas, which are expected to reach Indian ports in two months' time.

Yellow peas is available in the local retail market for Rs 22-24 a kg, whereas desi chana is priced at Rs 33 a kg. Gram prices have jumped by 50 per cent from Rs 22 a kg two years ago.

The non-branded products being sold in 100 kg bags might be the blended besan, where peas have been mixed with gram.