Experts mull sustainable storage methods for jaggery & turmeric

Eating jaggery during winter is an age-old practice that helps keep the body warm. Another spice that works wonders during the season is turmeric, which acts as an antibiotic and saves one from viral conditions. While both these ingredients can be found in every house, storing these becomes very important to increase shelf life.

If jaggery is not stored properly, it can absorb odours and flavours from other substances, affecting its taste and quality. If not stored in an airtight container, jaggery can be affected by moisture, which can spoil its taste and texture, not to mention mould. Similarly, the oil content in turmeric needs to be preserved for its long life. Turmeric rhizome oil (TO) is responsible for the spice’s characteristic taste and smell. Dried rhizomes contain about three to six per cent essential oil. The oil is extracted from powdered turmeric rhizomes through steam distillation. To store turmeric powder, one needs to keep it in an airtight container, away from moisture and sunlight, in a cool, shady place.

Experts from Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) have addressed the moisture content challenges and provided sustainable packaging solutions for jaggery and turmeric. Under the aegis of the PAU, the School of Business Studies (SBS) and the National Initiative for Developing and Harnessing Innovations (NIDHI) Technology Business Incubator (NIDHI-TBI), extended support to two entrepreneurs—Jagroop Singh and Sarbjit Singh—from Kaunke Kalan village.

Jagroop Singh sought technical assistance for preserving jaggery by controlling moisture content, while Sarbjit Singh focused on turmeric packaging. They introduced traditional yet redesigned packaging techniques aimed at enhancing the shelf life of these products.

Gurinder Singh, CEO of NIDHI-TBI, highlighted the use of sealed earthen pots (kujjian). These earthen pots help keep products dry and extend their shelf life.

“To effectively preserve jaggery in an earthen pot, ensure it’s completely dry before storing, line the pot with a dry cloth or parchment paper, tightly seal the lid, and keep the pot in a cool, dark, and dry place, ideally away from direct sunlight and humidity,” said Jagroop. The benefits of sealed earthen pots include sustainability and reduced plastic usage.