6 common cheating techniques
Yes, we at Jiak Durian Mai are also labeled under the “durian seller” category. However, we would like to expose all these malpractices as we were also once consumers and we know the feeling of getting cheated etc. To add on, we would love to help make your first durian experience a positive and memorable one. With that said, here are six common cheating techniques sometimes used by durian sellers:
1. Mislabeling Varieties
Technique: Sellers might label a lower-quality durian (like Monthong from Thailand) as a premium variety, such as Mao Shan Wang (MSW) or Black Thorn, to charge a higher price.
Tip: Know the key features of the variety you’re buying, such as color, shape, and thorn structure, to avoid being misled.
2. Using Overripe or Unripe Durians
Technique: Sellers may use overripe durians, which are cheaper, or unripe durians to make them look fresh or to increase weight. Overripe durians can taste sour, while unripe ones are bland and hard.
Tip: Look for a creamy texture and smell. Avoid durians that are overly mushy or have a sour smell.
3. Adding Water to Increase Weight
Technique: Some sellers soak durians or inject them with water to increase the weight, allowing them to charge more. This is particularly common in whole durians.
Tip: Choose dry, unsoaked durians. Gently shake the durian; a lot of water may cause a slight sloshing sound.
4. Switching Durians After Selection
Technique: After a customer chooses a specific durian, some sellers may switch it with a lower-quality one at the point of payment or packaging.
Tip: Watch your durian closely during the packing process or ask to pack it yourself if allowed.
5. Selling Mixed Varieties in Pre-Packaged Boxes
Technique: Some sellers pack durians of different varieties or varying ripeness together to fill the box, while labeling it as a premium variety like MSW. This way, they charge a premium price without selling a pure product.
Tip: If you’re buying pre-packaged durian, inspect each piece closely or buy from reputable sellers known for quality control.
6. Painting or Dyeing the Husk
Technique: To make a durian look like a premium variety, sellers sometimes apply paint or dye to the husk to match the color associated with specific durians (like the golden hue of Mao Shan Wang).
Tip: Avoid durians with unnatural coloring on the husk, and be wary of durians with an overly bright or odd hue.
Being aware of these techniques can help ensure you’re getting the quality and variety you’re paying for.
To end of with, always buy from reputable sources and, if possible, ask to taste a sample before purchasing. Last but not least, we at Jiak Durian Mai would like to assure and promise you that we strictly DO NOT cheat and we will only provide you with the durians you ordered/purchase.
If in any doubt, feel free to contact us at any of our multiple platforms.
