In 2002, the Food Standards Agency took 360 samples of rice labelled Basmati from major multiples and smaller groceries and discovered widespread food adulteration. Since then, certification has become stricter, but when food prices increase there is an increased temptation for unscrupulous suppliers to adulterate their rice with cheaper, non-Basmati rice. Tilda, however, has always had very strict practices, over and above what is legally required, to ensure that it only supplies Pure Basmati. DNA Testing With the introduction of new varieties and look-a-like Evolved Basmati varieties over the last decade, Tilda is addressing concerns among consumers about the authenticity of Basmati rice. Tilda's highly skilled buyers can tell different varieties apart by grain. Scientific checks are then carried out at Tilda's facility, Ricesearch, the world's only molecular food authentication service dedicated to Basmati rice. Our scientists at Ricesearch use DNA analysis to assess the genetic purity or otherwise of paddy samples. All Tilda Traditional Pure Basmati rice from across the growing region is tested, ensuring that every batch of Basmati Tilda buys is pure, because only Pure Basmati possesses the true Basmati characteristics - long slender grains with a delicate texture, delicious taste and tantalising aroma. Tilda never compromises. Provenance Tilda knows over 10,000 farmers by name and knows the farms where Tilda Basmati rice is grown. Protection Basmati is one of only a handful of rices in the world that is internationally traded and sold as a specific variety. Its history can be traced back over two centuries. In the 1920's plant breeders and research establishments began pinpointing and cataloguing what they termed 'pure line' varieties of Basmati rice by collecting specific traditional landrace (the species that has naturally evolved over centuries) grains and classifying them according to their distinctive properties. For the last 30 years, plant breeders have been trying to develop higher yielding and early maturing Basmati hybrid varieties by incorporating genes from short stature, early maturing, and higher yield non-Basmati varieties into the essential Pure Basmati plant make up. However, although cross breeders have been successful in achieving improved yields, no crosses have been developed with all of the pure line Basmati characteristics. Tilda actively protects the heritage of 'pure line' selections. For over 30 years the family business has been closely involved in supporting the Basmati farming communities. Tilda provides a comprehensive advice service for the thousands of farmers who grow this precious grain. Farmers can call a helpline for free assistance from Tilda and receive a visit from an expert to give them any advice they need about Basmati. At Tilda's own experimental farm in the heart of the Basmati growing region, the company researches different planting, growing and harvesting techniques for Basmati and shares what it learns with the farmers, so that they are always at the forefront of developments in Basmati farming. At the start of the Basmati growing season, Tilda offers the farmers certified Pure Basmati seed at cost, without any obligation for them to sell their harvested crop back to Tilda at the local agricultural market, known as the Mandi. Every step of the way, Tilda is there for the Basmati farmers offering support, guidance and advice.