Turmeric Oleoresin

Prepared at the 35th JECFA (1989), published in FNP 49 (1990) and in FNP 52 (1992). Metals and arsenic specifications revised at the 59th
JECFA (2002). A temporary ADI established at the 30th JECFA (1986) was not maintained at the 35th JECFA (1989)
DEFINITION Obtained by solvent extraction of turmeric (Curcuma longa L.). Only the following solvents may be used in the extraction: acetone, dichloromethane, 1,2-dichloroethane, methanol, ethanol, isopropanol and light petroleum (hexanes).
The selection of a turmeric oleoresin of a particular composition is based on the intended use in food. In general, all turmeric oleoresins contain
colouring matter and most contain flavouring matter but some oleoresins are processed to remove aromatic compounds. Commercial products
include oleoresins (per se) and formulations in which oleoresin is diluted in carrier solvents and which may contain emulsifiers and antioxidants.
Purified extracts of turmeric containing more than 90% total colouring matter are subject to specifications for "Curcumin".
Turmeric Oleoresins are sold on the basis of "colour value" or "curcumin content", which generally means the total content of the curcuminoid
substances: (I) curcumin, (II) demethoxycurcumin and (III) bisdemethoxycurcumin. Chemical names The principle colouring components are:
I. 1,7-Bis(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)hepta-1,6-diene- 3,5-dione
II. 1-(4-Hydroxyphenyl)-7-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-hepta-1,6-diene-3,5-dione
III. 1,7-bis(4-hydroxyphenyl)hepta-1,6-diene-3,5-dione
Chemical formula Chemical formula
I. C21H20O6
II. C20H18O5
III. C19H16O4
Assay Content of total colouring matter (curcuminoid content) not less than declared.
DESCRIPTION
Turmeric Oleoresins, per se, are deep brownish-orange viscous oily fluids, pasty semisolids or hard amorphous solids containing 37-55% curcuminoids and up to 25% volatile oil. Diluted turmeric oleoresin formulations are, generally yellow solutions containing 6-15% curcuminoids and nil to 10% volatile oil.
FUNCTIONAL USES Colour, flavouring agent