specific spice laws...

Not many are aware of the specific laws placed in the agriculture world when it comes to farming, cultivating, and growing crops or spices. Recently I was introduced to the agricultural term of GMO crops and how the specific DNA and nature of some crops are being modified in order to meet the needs and demands of the growing population of the world. Sometimes by altering genetic sequences and organisms we can produce more product of something, that looks better, tastes better, or even smells better. It is no surprise that turmeric, the natural golden spice, is another target of GMO crops in some areas. Because of certain circumstances involving lead poisoning in the US, the FDA and many other institution's and acts in India have been created and are involved in actively searching and checking transported turmeric before being placed in market to check lead levels. Although there is not a set number in place for maximum levels of lead found, the allowable level is 2.5ppm and there are constantly inspectors checking levels to make sure there is no harm coming to the customers and consumers. The reasons for the increase of lead in the turmeric powder and use while cultivating is for the increase of the richness of color and to increase product for the farmers. It is extremely important to look at the contents of your spices and foods regardless of the labels on the packaging or the known facts of turmeric being a natural spice. Many farmers and producers will still alter their produce to benefit their needs and can be of harm to you if you are unaware of the extra additives. Laws are constantly being put into place when it comes to agriculture so outbreaks of lead poisoning for example to not occur and our foods can be safe from harms way.

Cowell, Whitney, et al. “Ground Turmeric as a Source of Lead Exposure in the United States.” Public Health Reports (Washington, D.C. : 1974), SAGE Publications, 2017, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5415259/.