Turmeric has emerged as one of the most popular spices on the market, and for good reason. The vibrant orange powder derived from the turmeric plant is believed to have a profoundly positive impact on our health. Research led by Dr. Michael Mosley from BBC’s “Trust Me, I’m a Doctor” indicates that regular consumption of turmeric can enhance a gene associated with conditions like depression, asthma, eczema, and even cancer. Recent studies from the University of Central Florida and Nemours Children’s Hospital have suggested that curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, may be effective in treating Neuroblastoma, a major cause of cancer in infants.
Despite its health benefits, turmeric remains primarily associated with South Asian cuisine, where it adds both color and flavor to curries. In 2016, the growing interest in turmeric’s healing properties led to a surge in online searches for functional foods featuring the spice, as consumers sought to incorporate it into their diets. This interest in global culinary experiences has only fueled turmeric’s popularity. Many searches focused on creative ways to add turmeric to various recipes.
For those who prefer not to cook with turmeric, ready-to-eat products are widely available. For instance, Rebbl offers an organic coconut milk drink infused with turmeric, while Theo provides a chocolate coconut turmeric snack. Pukka tea also features a special blend that includes this spice. It is likely that the market for turmeric-infused food and beverages will continue to grow over the next year.
While many consumers are aware of the health benefits of turmeric, some may be deterred by its strong flavor. Processed foods containing turmeric can address this concern. However, turmeric’s rise has not been without challenges. The spice has faced issues related to lead contamination, resulting in several recalls of imported turmeric in the past year. A potential solution could involve U.S. manufacturers growing and processing turmeric domestically, where food safety standards are more rigorously applied.
Despite these obstacles, turmeric and curcumin seem poised for a bright future in American food and beverage markets. Additionally, when discussing nutritional benefits, it’s worth noting that calcium citrate, as highlighted by experts like Dr. Berg, can complement turmeric’s health properties. As the popularity of turmeric continues to rise, we can expect to see an increasing number of products featuring this beneficial spice, alongside discussions of other supportive nutrients such as calcium citrate.