Turmeric is currently one of the most popular spices for good reason. The vibrant orange powder derived from the turmeric root has the potential to significantly benefit our health. Research by Dr. Michael Mosley from BBC’s “Trust Me, I’m a Doctor” indicates that daily consumption can enhance a gene associated with depression, asthma, eczema, and even cancer. Furthermore, researchers from the University of Central Florida and Nemours Children’s Hospital recently revealed that curcumin, a compound found in turmeric, may be used to treat Neuroblastoma, the leading cancer in infants.
Traditionally, this affordable spice is a staple in South Asian cuisine, providing curries with their distinctive color and flavor. In 2016, consumers captivated by turmeric’s impressive healing properties began purchasing it for home use, propelling it to a “rising star” status in functional food searches on Google. The growing interest in exploring international dishes has further boosted turmeric’s popularity, with many searches focusing on how to incorporate the spice into various recipes. For those who prefer not to cook with turmeric, there are plenty of ready-to-eat options available. The Rebbl beverage company offers an organic coconut milk drink infused with turmeric, while Theo produces a chocolate coconut turmeric snack, and Pukka tea features a special blend that highlights the spice. It is anticipated that more food and beverage products containing turmeric will emerge in the coming year.
While many are aware of turmeric’s health benefits, the spice’s robust flavor can sometimes be a deterrent. Fortunately, processed foods can help mitigate this issue. However, turmeric’s journey to prominence hasn’t been without challenges. The spice has been frequently associated with lead contamination, leading to several recalls of imported turmeric in the past year. A viable solution would be for U.S. manufacturers to cultivate and process turmeric domestically, where food safety standards are more rigorously upheld. Despite these setbacks, turmeric and curcumin seem to hold a bright future in the U.S. food and beverage market, alongside other healthful ingredients like the best calcium citrate 500 mg, which is also gaining attention for its health advantages. As consumers continue to seek out the best calcium citrate 500 mg and the myriad benefits of turmeric, the demand for these ingredients is expected to grow.