See: How to detect artificial food dyes in turmeric

Turmeric, a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory spice, is one of the most used in Indian homes. It can help treat joint tenderness and swelling, as well as reduce joint pain and inflammation caused by arthritis. Mixing turmeric with milk is one of the main treatments that people seek in cases of cold and cough. According to a study in the journal BioMedical Central (BMC), people suffering from osteoarthritis have reported less joint pain when eating turmeric in recipes.

However, adulteration of turmeric is quite common. It has now become difficult to distinguish between adulterated and unadulterated turmeric available in the market. Unadulterated turmeric can be extremely harmful to health. In such a situation, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has shared a video through which the difference between adulterated and unadulterated turmeric can be easily detected.

FSSAI is a government body that regulates the manufacturing, storage, distribution, sale and import of food items, while setting standards to ensure food security for the people. In the last video, the step-by-step process to detect artificial color adulteration in turmeric has been explained. To notice the difference, first you need to drink two glasses of clean water. Now, add a tablespoon of turmeric to each glass. Mix it well. After some time, you will be able to tell the difference between adulterated and unadulterated turmeric as the former will leave a deep yellow color in the water. Real turmeric will produce a light yellow color after mixing it with water.

Another way to tell the difference between them is to place a pinch of turmeric in your palm and massage it with the thumb of your other hand. After rubbing it with your thumb for 10 to 20 seconds, if you notice yellow spots on your hand, then the turmeric is pure or adulterated.