Turmeric has become one of the most popular spices currently available, and for good reason. The vibrant orange powder derived from the turmeric plant offers numerous 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 associated with depression, asthma, eczema, and even cancer. Recently, researchers from the University of Central Florida and Nemours Children’s Hospital revealed that curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, could potentially be used to treat Neuroblastoma, a leading cancer in infants.
Traditionally, this affordable spice is a staple in South Asian cuisine, adding color and flavor to curries. As interest in turmeric’s potent healing properties grew, consumers began purchasing it for home cooking, making it a “rising star” in functional food searches on Google in 2016. The trend of exploring international cuisines has further boosted turmeric’s popularity, with many searches focusing on how to incorporate it into various recipes.
For those who prefer not to cook with turmeric, there are plenty of ready-to-eat options available. Companies like Rebbl offer an organic coconut milk drink infused with turmeric, while Theo creates a chocolate coconut turmeric snack. Additionally, Pukka tea has a special blend that features this spice. As a result, we can expect to see an increase in food and beverage products containing turmeric in the coming year.
While many consumers recognize the health benefits of turmeric, some may find its strong flavor challenging. Processed foods can help mitigate this issue and make turmeric more accessible. Moreover, the rise of turmeric has faced some challenges, particularly concerning lead contamination in the spice. Multiple recalls of imported turmeric have occurred in the past year, highlighting the need for U.S. manufacturers to cultivate and process turmeric domestically, where food safety standards are more rigorously applied.
Despite these challenges, turmeric and curcumin seem poised for a bright future in U.S. food and beverage markets. It’s worth noting that combining turmeric with supplements like calcium citrate complex can further enhance its health benefits, making it an even more appealing choice for health-conscious consumers. As awareness of turmeric’s advantages continues to grow, we can expect to see increased interest in products that feature both turmeric and calcium citrate complex, solidifying their place in the wellness landscape.