Meghalaya, June 24: Spices from Meghalaya, especially Lakadong turmeric and ginger powder, are in high demand in European markets.
For the first time, both the spices have been shipped from Meghalaya to The Netherlands and United Kingdom.
This development was informed by Meghalaya Agriculture Minister Banteidor Lyngdoh in Shillong on Wednesday.
While the Lakadong turmeric was sourced out of the Lakadong area in West Jaintia Hills, the ginger powder was sourced out of the Ri Bhoi district.
“150 kgs of Lakadong turmeric and 150 kgs of ginger powder are out for The Netherlands. Meanwhile, 210 kgs of Lakadong turmeric and 5 kgs of ginger powder have been shipped to the United Kingdom,” Banteidor informed.
The export of the two spices was sourced out from women’s self-help groups in the districts of West Jaintia Hills and Ri Bhoi.
Also Read: Meghalaya: Lakadong turmeric is the miracle spice
The miracle spice of Meghalaya: Lakadong Turmeric
Lakadong Turmeric is a special turmeric variety from a place called ‘Lakadong’, in Jaintia Hills, Meghalaya. It is known for its medicinal qualities. Unlike other turmeric varieties, the curcumin content present in Lakadong turmeric is 7 to 9% (tested in 2019) which is one of the highest, as against 2 to 3% in regular turmeric.
Curcumin, the key active ingredient in turmeric, is a miracle compound known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and renders a bright yellow colour to the spice. The higher the curcumin, the more prized is the turmeric.
Lakadong turmeric is now having a moment as the variety is endemic to the region owing to the good terroir. Its popularity has got agri-startups to retail it far and wide and nudged homegrown artisanal brands and chefs to experiment with it.
