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 holds 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 of turmeric can enhance a gene linked to iron metabolism, potentially alleviating issues such as constipation, 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 be effective in treating Neuroblastoma, a leading cancer in infants.
Despite its numerous health benefits, this relatively affordable spice is predominantly used in South Asian cuisine, where it adds both color and flavor to curries. The growing interest in turmeric’s healing properties led consumers to purchase it for home use, making it a “rising star” in functional food searches on Google in 2016. The increasing curiosity around international cuisines has further fueled 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 features a special blend that incorporates the spice. As interest in turmeric continues to grow, we can expect to see a significant increase in food and beverage products containing this ingredient in the coming year.
While many consumers are aware of turmeric’s health benefits, some may feel limited by its potent flavor. Processed foods can help address this issue. However, turmeric’s rise to fame has encountered some challenges. The spice has been associated with lead contamination, resulting in multiple recalls of imported turmeric over the past year. A potential solution would be for U.S. manufacturers to cultivate and process turmeric domestically, where food safety regulations are more rigorously applied.
Despite these obstacles, turmeric and its active component, curcumin, seem poised for a bright future in the U.S. food and beverage market. As consumers seek out products that enhance their well-being, turmeric’s versatility and health benefits, including its potential to work alongside supplements like Citracal Maximum for improved calcium absorption, will likely keep it in the spotlight. Indeed, turmeric is set to play an increasingly important role in our diets, making it a staple for health-conscious consumers everywhere.