Ingredient

Garam Masala

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Source

Not animal-derived

Allergen

Role in food

Manufacturers use garam masala primarily as a flavoring agent to impart a warm, complex, …

What it is

Garam masala is a blend of ground spices, originating from India. The exact spices and their proportions vary by region and family recipe, but common ingredients include cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, cumin, coriander, and black pepper. It is typically added to dishes towards the end of cooking or as a finishing spice to enhance aroma and flavor.

Why it's used

Manufacturers use garam masala primarily as a flavoring agent to impart a warm, complex, and aromatic taste to foods. It is frequently found in Indian and South Asian cuisines, particularly in curries, stews, lentil dishes, and marinades. It can also be used in spice blends for snacks, baked goods, and even beverages.

Health notes

Garam masala is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as a food ingredient. The spices within garam masala have been studied for various health effects, with some research suggesting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. However, these effects are typically associated with consuming spices in general, and specific health claims for garam masala are not established. International bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated some of the individual spices commonly found in garam masala, but not the blend itself as a distinct entity.

Allergen info

Garam masala is not a major allergen. However, some spice blends may be processed in facilities that handle allergens, so cross-contamination is a possibility. Check product labeling for specific allergen warnings.

Products containing Garam Masala

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4 Him Food Group LLC Masala Pop, Small Batch Indian Spiced Popcorn, Tamarind Sesame With Papadums, Tamarind Sesame With Papadums Popcorn, Peanuts, Seeds & Related Snacks 464kcal 7.1Protein 17.9Fat 71.4Carbs Zaika Flavours Of India Inc. Cafe Spice, South Indian Potato Naan Sandwich, Medium, Medium Prepared Subs & Sandwiches High in sodium — 32% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 30% DV per serving 141kcal 4.3Protein 5.1Fat 20Carbs Eliot's Adult Nut Butters LLC The Bolder Nut Butter, Garam Masala Peanut Butter Nut & Seed Butters 571kcal 21.4Protein 35.7Fat 28.6Carbs Logic Nutrition, Inc. Fazlani Foods, Rajma Masala Canned & Bottled Beans High in sodium — 22% DV per serving 64kcal 3.2Protein 2Fat 8Carbs Fischer & Wieser Specialty Foods, Inc. Cherry Apple Chutney, Cherry Apple Pickles, Olives, Peppers & Relishes 179kcal 0Protein 0Fat 44.6Carbs The Kroger Co. Jungle Curry Spicy Thai Red Curry Sauce With Red Chili Peppers, Lemongrass, Ginger, Garlic And Lime Thai Inspired Simmer Sauce, Jungle Curry Oriental, Mexican & Ethnic Sauces High in sodium — 22% DV per serving 83kcal 0.8Protein 5Fat 7.5Carbs Jagpreet Enterprises Chicken Tikka Masala With Lentil Rice Other Deli High in sodium — 26% DV per serving 117kcal 10.3Protein 1.2Fat 15.0Carbs

Safeway, Inc. Tikka Masala Simmer Sauce, Tikka Masala Oriental, Mexican & Ethnic Sauces High in sodium — 35% DV per serving 74kcal 0.8Protein 4.9Fat 5.7Carbs AEM Food and Beverage, Inc Paneer Street Wrap Prepared Wraps and Burittos High in saturated fat — 30% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 23% DV per serving 177kcal 9.7Protein 10.6Fat 14.2Carbs AEM Food and Beverage, Inc Spicy Tamil Lamb Street Wrap Prepared Wraps and Burittos 132kcal 7.5Protein 4.2Fat 17.0Carbs Jagpreet Enterprises Chicken Biryani Frozen Dinners & Entrees High in sodium — 33% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 30% DV per serving 113kcal 10.2Protein 3.2Fat 11.6Carbs Zaika Flavours Of India Inc. Bombay Dal Palak With Lemon Rice, Medium Entrees, Sides & Small Meals High in sodium — 21% DV per serving 106kcal 3.1Protein 2.2Fat 17.6Carbs

Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.