Turmeric Powder
Specifications:
Parameter | Standard Value | Importance |
Curcumin Content | Min 2.0% – 6.5% | The primary bioactive compound; determines therapeutic and Colouring value. |
Moisture | Max 10.0% | Crucial for shelf life; moisture above 12% leads to mold and rapid degradation. |
Total Ash | Max 9.0% | Measures inorganic residue; higher levels indicate poor cleaning or dirt. |
Acid Insoluble Ash | Max 1.5% | Indicates presence of sand, silica, or grit. |
Total Starch | Max 60.0% | Natural starch content; higher levels may suggest adulteration with flour. |
Volatile Oil | 2.5% – 7.0% | Primarily Turmerone; responsible for the characteristic aroma. |
Lead (Pb) | Max 10 ppm | A critical safety limit, especially to guard against lead chromate dyes. |
General Physical Description:
- Appearance: A fine, free-flowing powder. Premium grades are highly uniform with no visible lumps or gritty particles.
- Colour: Deep, vibrant yellow to brownish-orange. A bright yellow colour typically suggests a higher curcumin content, though this is often verified via chemical analysis.
- Texture: Smooth and slightly “oily” to the touch due to natural essential oils.
- Aroma: Distinctively earthy, warm, and peppery with a hint of ginger and mustard.
- Flavour: Slightly bitter and pungent with an earthy undertone. It should be free from any mustiness or foreign odours.