Turmeric is exported from India as whole dried fingers, bulbs and ground powder, under HS code 0910.30. The specifications that matter most are curcumin content, moisture, colour, finger size and polish, and freedom from added dyes. Curcumin content varies by variety and region, so buyers should ask for a lab report for the exact lot instead of relying on a variety name.

What is the difference between turmeric fingers, bulbs and powder?

Turmeric fingers are the side rhizomes of the plant, boiled, dried and sold whole. They are the main export form of whole turmeric. Bulbs, or round turmeric, are the mother rhizome. They are harder, less valued in some markets and often ground for powder or extraction. Turmeric powder is dried turmeric ground to a fixed particle size, ready for use in food manufacturing and blends.

Fingers give you more control, because you can inspect colour, size and condition before processing. Powder saves milling and cleaning, but needs lot testing to confirm purity and the absence of added colours.

Which turmeric varieties does India export?

India grows many turmeric varieties, usually traded under the name of the region or market where they are sold. Alleppey turmeric, from Kerala, is known for deep colour and a high curcumin content. Madras and Salem turmeric, from Tamil Nadu, is widely traded and has a lower curcumin content. Other well-known trading centres include Erode in Tamil Nadu, Nizamabad in Telangana and Sangli in Maharashtra. Names vary between traders, so insist on a written specification.

What is curcumin content and why does it matter?

Curcumin is the main colouring pigment in turmeric. A higher curcumin percentage means deeper yellow colour and stronger colouring power, which matters for food manufacturers who use turmeric as a natural colour. Typical curcumin content in commercial Indian turmeric ranges from about 2% to 6%, depending on the variety, and premium high-curcumin lots sell at a higher price. Ask the supplier for a lab result by lot and for the test method used.

What specifications should a turmeric order include?

For fingers, specify the variety or region, whether the fingers are polished or unpolished, the finger length range, the minimum curcumin content, and the maximum moisture. Dried turmeric is commonly kept below about 10% moisture so that it stores without mould. Add limits for foreign matter, broken pieces, insect damage and mouldy fingers.

For powder, add particle size, colour, ash content and the microbiological limits. For both forms, set limits for pesticide residues and request lot-level reports.

What is polished turmeric?

Polishing is a mechanical process that rubs the dried fingers to remove the rough outer skin and give a smooth, brighter surface. Polished fingers look better and are preferred in some markets. Unpolished fingers keep the natural surface. Specify which you want, because the price and appearance differ.

What are the adulteration risks in turmeric?

Turmeric has a history of colour adulteration, because a strong yellow colour is easy to fake. Lead chromate has been used to brighten polished fingers, and synthetic dyes such as metanil yellow have been added to powder. Both are illegal in food and dangerous. To protect yourself, buy from registered suppliers, ask for test results for banned colours and heavy metals, and test samples in your own laboratory before and after shipment.

Which markets buy Indian turmeric?

Trade data places India's turmeric exports under HS 0910.30 at about USD 340 million in 2024-25, going to well over a hundred countries. Neighbouring South Asian markets such as Bangladesh buy large volumes, and the Middle East, the United States, Europe and Southeast Asia are also important destinations.

How should turmeric be packed and stored?

Whole turmeric is usually packed in bags and shipped in bulk, powder in lined bags or drums. Keep it cool, dry and away from light, which fades the colour. Store it away from strong odours, since turmeric absorbs smells. Agree the packaging and net weight in the contract.

Turmeric from Aromya Spices

Aromya supplies turmeric fingers and turmeric powder to importers and food manufacturers. See the turmeric fingers and turmeric powder pages, or request a quote with your specification.