CURCUMIN
Prepared at the 61st JECFA (2003) and published in FNP 52 Add 11 (2003), superseding specifications prepared at 57th JECFA (2001) and published in FNP 52 Add 9 (2001). An ADI of 0-3 mg/kg body weight was established at the 61st JECFA in 2003.
SYNONYMS Turmeric yellow, Kurkum, INS No. 100(i)
DEFINITION Curcumin is obtained by solvent extraction of turmeric i.e., the ground rhizomes of Curcuma longa L. (Curcuma domestica Valeton). In order to obtain a concentrated curcumin powder, the extract is purified by crystallization. The product consists essentially of curcumins; i.e. the
colouring principle 1,7-bis-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxy-phenyl)-hepta-1,6-diene-3,5-dione (synonyms: Curcumin, Diferuloylmethane, CI Natural Yellow 3, CI
(1975) 75300) and its desmethoxy- and bis-desmethoxy-derivatives in varying proportions. Minor amounts of oils and resins naturally occurring in
turmeric may be present. Only the following solvents may be used in the extraction and purification: acetone, methanol, ethanol, isopropanol, hexane
and ethyl acetate. Supercritical carbon dioxide may also be used in the extraction.
Chemical names Principal colouring components:
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
C.A.S. number
I. 458-37-7
II. 33171-16-3
III. 33171-05-0
DESCRIPTION Orange-yellow crystalline powder
FUNCTIONAL USES Colour
