India is the largest producer, consumer, and exporter of turmeric in the world. India's share in world turmeric production stands at around 80%. Also, close to 60% of the world's turmeric exports originate in India. Turmeric powder possesses antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties and forms a part of many ayurvedic and home remedies for common ailments. The health benefits of turmeric are now being recognized the world over. Turmeric milk is fast becoming a drink of choice for health-aware consumers around the globe.
Adulteration in turmeric powder
After salt, turmeric powder is the most widely used condiment in Indian households. The turmeric powder that you get from market may contain unwanted adulterants. The common adulterants added to turmeric are fillers like sawdust or chalk, and colouring agents like lead chromate, or metanil yellow.
Let us find out how you can test for presence of these.
Sawdust
It is difficult to check for the presence of sawdust in turmeric through a direct test at home. However, since sawdust receives its colour from that of the wood, it is often added to turmeric along with a colouring agent. The test for the colouring agent can confirm the presence of sawdust.
Chalk Powder
Chalk powder is added not only to turmeric but also to many other Indian spices. Since it is calcium carbonate, it reacts with any acidic substance. To check for the presence of chalk in any spice, add a little amount of Vinegar to the spice. An effervescence will confirm the presence of chalk.
Metanil Yellow
Take a little amount of turmeric powder in clear glass. Add a small amount of Vinegar to it. The colour should change to Pink. Now add a small amount of water. If the pink colour disappears, turmeric is pure. Otherwise Metanil yellow is present in turmeric.