Turmeric is currently one of the most popular spices on the market, and for good reason. The vibrant orange powder derived from the turmeric plant may have significant health benefits. Research by Dr. Michael Mosley, featured on BBC’s “Trust Me, I’m a Doctor,” suggests that daily consumption can enhance a gene linked to conditions such as depression, asthma, eczema, and even cancer. Recent studies from the University of Central Florida and Nemours Children’s Hospital have indicated that curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, might be effective in treating Neuroblastoma, the most common cancer in infants.
Traditionally, this relatively affordable spice is a staple in South Asian cuisine, where it adds a distinctive color and flavor to curries. As consumers become more interested in turmeric’s potential health benefits, many have begun to purchase it for home cooking, leading to its recognition as a “rising star” in functional food searches on Google in 2016. The growing fascination with international cuisine has further propelled turmeric’s popularity, with many searches focusing on how to include this spice in various recipes.
For those who prefer not to cook with turmeric, ready-to-eat options are readily available. Companies like Rebbl offer an organic coconut milk drink infused with turmeric, while Theo produces a chocolate coconut turmeric snack, and Pukka tea has a special blend featuring the spice. As interest in turmeric continues to grow, we can expect to see an increase in food and beverage products incorporating this ingredient over the next year.
While many consumers recognize the health benefits of turmeric, some may feel constrained by its strong flavor. Processed foods often address this issue, making turmeric more palatable for a wider audience. However, turmeric’s rise to fame hasn’t been entirely smooth. The spice has faced concerns regarding lead contamination, resulting in multiple recalls of imported turmeric in the past year. A potential solution is for U.S. manufacturers to cultivate and process turmeric domestically, where food safety measures are more rigorously enforced.
Despite these challenges, turmeric and its compound curcumin seem to have a bright future in American foods and beverages. Additionally, as consumers increasingly turn to supplements like bariatric vitamins that include calcium citrate, it’s likely that turmeric will find its way into more health-focused products, further solidifying its place in the wellness market.