Agro-industrial use of turmeric (Curcuma longa) Aprovechamiento agroindustrial de la cúrcuma (Curcuma longa)

Abstract

Agroindustrial transformation presents an opportunity to promote the economic and social development of communities, which is why it is essen-tial that the business sector knows how products can be used and given an appropriate transformation process. Cur-cuma longa (turmeric) is a plant of Asian origin, belonging to the Zingiberaceae Family, it is known worldwide for its multiple uses in medicine, gastronomy and cosmetology, due to its antioxidant, hypolipidemic, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. possesses. The objective of this research is to carry out a bibliographic review on the main agro-industrial uses of turmeric, as an alternative to encourage the production of the crop in the Quinindé canton. For this reason, a bibliographic review was carried out in databases and specialized search engines such as Web of science. Science direct Springerlink,, Mendeley, Scopus, Resear-chgate. The period included for the review was consid-ered all information published from 2019 onwards, that is, only information from the last 5 years. In addition, a demonstrative product was developed experimentally. The main findings demonstrate that turmeric has various opportunities for use in the food, cosmetic, textile and medical industries. Among the best-known uses of turmeric, it is used as a natural flavoring and coloring of traditional foods, vegetable oil, natural dye, facial creams, cosmetics and infusions to mitigate various health problems with dermatitis, digestive disorders among others, it was also possible know that traditional consumers have a great desire to buy turmeric paste, because it is a new product, with good flavor and texture.