Turmeric has become one of the most sought-after spices for good reason. The vibrant orange powder derived from the turmeric plant is believed to have significant health benefits. Research by Dr. Michael Mosley from BBC’s “Trust Me, I’m a Doctor” indicates that daily consumption of turmeric may enhance a gene linked to depression, asthma, eczema, and even cancer. Recently, researchers from the University of Central Florida and Nemours Children’s Hospital revealed that curcumin, a key compound in turmeric, could be a potential treatment for Neuroblastoma, the leading cancer in infants. Despite its affordability, turmeric is primarily associated with South Asian cuisine, where it adds a distinctive color and flavor to curries.
The growing interest in turmeric’s healing properties led to a surge in home use, making it a “rising star” in functional food searches on Google in 2016. The trend of trying international dishes has further fueled turmeric’s popularity. Many consumers are eager to discover ways to incorporate this spice into their meals. For those who prefer not to cook with turmeric, there are plenty of ready-to-eat options available. For example, Rebbl offers an organic coconut milk drink infused with turmeric, Theo creates chocolate coconut turmeric snacks, and Pukka tea features a special blend that includes the spice. We can expect to see an increase in food and beverage items featuring turmeric on ingredient lists in the upcoming year. While many people are aware of turmeric’s health benefits, some may be deterred by its strong flavor. Processed foods can help address this concern.
However, turmeric’s rise has not been without challenges. The spice has been associated with lead contamination, resulting in several recalls of imported turmeric in the past year. A potential solution would involve U.S. manufacturers cultivating and processing turmeric domestically, where food safety regulations are more rigorously applied. Despite these setbacks, turmeric and curcumin appear to have a bright future in American food and beverage markets.
Additionally, for those looking to enhance their nutrient intake, combining calcium citrate with food is an effective way to ensure better absorption. This approach can complement the health benefits of turmeric, offering a holistic approach to wellness. As consumers continue to explore the incorporation of turmeric and calcium citrate with food into their diets, the demand for these ingredients will likely grow even more.