Most shops have a plethora of products available in look-alike packages under slightly altered names. The packaging, colour and design of the pass-off product is so similar to the original, that it is impossible to distinguish between the two. Here are some tips from experts that may come in handy:

lTry and buy items of daily use from a departmental store or a cooperative.

lMake sure the manufacturing date of the product is recent and check the expiry date.

lIf it is a lubricant, make sure that the batch number on the cap matches that stamped on the side.

lBuy lubricants from authorised dealers. Ask for a cash memo in which the batch and serial number have to be mentioned.

lCheck for an ISI certification on products — a pressure cooker, for instance — supposed to have it.

lBeware of salespersons offering huge discounts on branded products under the tag of “consumer promotion”.