Turmeric

Turmeric is a spice that comes from the root of the Curcuma longa plant, which is related to ginger. It's typically dried and ground into a bright yellow-orange powder.

Manufacturers add turmeric primarily for its vibrant yellow-orange color and distinct earthy, slightly bitter flavor. It's a common ingredient in curry powders, mustards, sauces, and seasoning mixes.

Turmeric is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in food. JECFA (the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives) has evaluated curcumin, the main coloring component of turmeric, and established an acceptable daily intake. EFSA (the European Food Safety Authority) has also evaluated curcumin as a food additive. While some studies explore potential health benefits of turmeric, these are often at higher doses than typically found in food, and more research is needed to draw firm conclusions. There are no notable controversies regarding its safety as a food ingredient at typical consumption levels.