Turmeric spice: Authenticity, fraud detection, and traceability vis-a-vis consumers’ health
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.18686/fnc235Keywords:
turmeric; fraud detection; adulterants; consumers’ health; authenticity; traceabilityAbstract
Introduction: Turmeric, a golden yellow spice used mostly in South Asia but now used globally, is in high demand due to its varied medicinal and culinary uses. This has led to the deceptive practice of using adulterants to increase bulkiness and brightness for economic gains. Unfortunately, there is inadequate inspection of commercially available turmeric powder, and some adulterants, e.g., lead chromate, are dangerous to consumers’ health. Objective: This review aimed to shed light on the complexities surrounding turmeric powder authenticity and fraud detection, highlighting the importance of traceability in maintaining the integrity of this cherished spice, thereby protecting consumers’ health. Methodology: The scientific literature was searched, using key terms of “turmeric”, “adulterants”, “authenticity”, “fraud detection”, “traceability”, “consumers’ health”, and “toxicity” to guide the selection of relevant research papers. Results/Discussion: The findings of this paper speculate challenges associated with turmeric powder authenticity and fraud detection, weakened by inadequate traceability systems to track and trace turmeric powder from the market to the source, with potential implications on consumers’ health. However, by providing consumers with proper information to help them make informed decisions on the sources of turmeric powder, they would be more likely to gain health benefits from turmeric powder. Conclusion: It is critical to comprehend the misleading nature of adulterated turmeric spice and the possible health risks for a proper approach to handling this problem.
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