Named as IISR Surya, the new variety features a light-coloured rhizome for the powdering industry.

In order to meet the specific needs of the turmeric processing industry, the ICAR – Indian Institute of Spices Research (IISR), Kozhikode, Kerala has developed a new light-coloured turmeric variety for the spices industry.

Named as IISR Surya, the new variety features a light-coloured rhizome for the powdering industry. It was developed after extensive research and the new variety is expected to significantly benefit farmers, especially in the production of high-quality turmeric powder.

Besides the common yellowish turmeric, the masala and powdering industry favours lighter-coloured varieties such as Mydukur and Salem Local to meet their demands. However, these local cultivars are available only in limited quantities. As a result, lighter-coloured turmeric is often mixed with regular-coloured turmeric to satisfy demand. This blended turmeric powder lacks any standardised characteristics, as its composition entirely depends on the mixing process, said a press release.