Curcumin

Curcumin (CAS 458-37-7), also known by its food additive designation E100, is the primary bioactive pigment extracted from turmeric root. It functions commercially as a natural yellow-to-orange colorant. This versatile compound serves as an antioxidant and flavoring agent across food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic manufacturing. In food and beverage production, it is used to color products such as mustards and dairy items.

Confectionery and ready meals often utilize this ingredient to achieve vibrant hues without synthetic dyes. Pharmaceutical and nutraceutical manufacturers incorporate it into capsules, tablets, and functional supplements. These applications typically target antioxidant-positioned product lines. In personal care, it is formulated into skin creams, serums, and suncare products where its UV-stabilizing properties support product shelf life.

The ingredient also appears in natural food flavoring applications, contributing a mild, earthy warmth to spice blends. It is supplied as a fine orange-yellow powder, with standardized extracts typically offered at 95% content. This concentration serves as the benchmark specification for most industrial buyers. Food-grade and USP-grade designations are commonly available for various manufacturing requirements.

Food-grade material conforms to E100 specifications under EU and Codex Alimentarius standards. Oleoresin and water-dispersible forms are also commercially available for liquid formulation and beverage applications.