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Turmeric products: Evaluation of curcumin and trace elements
Maria Isabel Andrekowisk Fioravanti1, Fernanda Peixoto Pizano2, Ana Paula Rebellato3
1Faculty of Food Engineering, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Rua Monteiro Lobato 80, 13083-862 Campinas, SP, Brazil; Institute of Food Technology, Av. Brasil 2880, Jd. Chapadão, P.O. Box 139, Campinas, SP 13070-178, Brazil; Adolfo Lutz Institute, Rua São Carlos, 720, Vila Industrial, Campinas, SP 13035- 420, Brazil.
This study quantified curcumin and trace elements in turmeric capsules, finding variable levels and no direct relationship between them. Some samples exceeded acceptable daily intake for curcumin, highlighting the need for careful product marketing.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology and Toxicology
- Analytical Chemistry
- Food Science
Background:
- Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) is recognized for its health benefits, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Ensuring the quality and safety of turmeric-based supplements requires understanding their chemical composition.
- Trace element contamination can pose health risks, necessitating their evaluation in dietary supplements.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify curcumin and specific trace elements (Cr, Co, Ni, As, Mo, Cd, Sb, Ba, Hg, Pb) in turmeric capsule samples.
- To assess the estimated daily intake (EDI) of curcumin and compare it to the acceptable daily intake (ADI).
- To evaluate the contribution of trace elements to health-based guidance values.
Main Methods:
- Curcumin quantification using spectrophotometry.
- Trace element analysis via ICP-MS (Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry) after acid digestion.
- Calculation of estimated daily intake (EDI) for curcumin and comparison with ADI.
- Assessment of trace element contribution to health-based guidance values.
Main Results:
- Curcumin levels varied significantly across 30 samples (0.03–37.6 g/100 g).
- Most trace elements were detected, with Sb and Hg below quantification limits; Ba and Ni showed the highest concentration ranges.
- Three samples exceeded 50% of the acceptable daily intake for curcumin; Cobalt (Co) contributed the most to health-based guidance values (2.72%).
Conclusions:
- The study identified significant variability in curcumin content and the presence of various trace elements in turmeric capsules.
- Some turmeric supplements may pose risks due to high curcumin intake or trace element levels.
- Careful marketing and quality control are essential for ensuring the safety and efficacy of turmeric-based products.
