Turmeric has become one of the most popular spices on the market for good reason. The vibrant orange powder derived from the turmeric root is known for its potential health benefits. Research by Dr. Michael Mosley from BBC’s “Trust Me, I’m a Doctor” indicates that consuming turmeric daily can enhance a gene linked to depression, asthma, eczema, and even certain types of cancer. Furthermore, recent studies from researchers at the University of Central Florida and Nemours Children’s Hospital suggest that curcumin, the active component of turmeric, could be effective in treating Neuroblastoma, the leading cancer in infants.
Traditionally, this affordable spice is a staple in South Asian cuisine, providing both color and flavor to dishes like curries. As consumers become more interested in turmeric’s powerful healing properties, many have started purchasing it for home cooking, contributing to its status as a “rising star” in functional food searches on Google in 2016. The growing curiosity about international cuisines has only fueled this trend, with many searches focusing on ways to incorporate turmeric into various recipes.
For those who prefer not to cook with turmeric, ready-to-eat options are widely available. Companies like Rebbl offer organic coconut milk drinks infused with turmeric, while Theo produces chocolate coconut snacks featuring the spice, and Pukka tea has created special blends that include turmeric. In the coming year, we can expect a surge in food and beverage products containing turmeric among the ingredient lists. Although many consumers recognize turmeric’s health benefits, they may be deterred by its potent flavor; processed food options help address this concern.
However, turmeric’s rise hasn’t been entirely smooth. The spice has been associated with lead contamination, resulting in 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 enforced. Despite these challenges, turmeric and curcumin seem poised for a promising future in the U.S. food and beverage industry.
Additionally, many consumers seeking to enhance their health may consider supplements like pure encap calcium citrate, which can be taken alongside turmeric to further support overall well-being. Given the increasing interest in wellness products, it’s likely that both turmeric and pure encap calcium citrate will feature prominently in health-focused diets. As the popularity of turmeric continues to grow, the inclusion of such supplements may become more common, highlighting the spice’s versatility and significance in contemporary nutrition.