Asafoetida Powder
Asafoetida Powder – The Pungent and Potent Spice
Asafoetida Powder, commonly known as Hing, is a strongly aromatic and flavorful spice derived from the dried resin of the Ferula species, particularly Ferula asafoetida. It belongs to the Apiaceae (Parsley) family and is widely used in Indian, Middle Eastern, and Central Asian cuisines for its unique, umami-rich taste.
Despite its initially strong sulfurous aroma, Asafoetida Powder mellows upon cooking, delivering a savory, garlicky, and onion-like flavor. It is a key ingredient in lentil dishes, curries, pickles, and spice blends such as sambhar powder. Asafoetida is also valued in Ayurvedic and traditional medicine for its digestive, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties.
Uses of Asafoetida Powder
- Culinary Use – Enhances lentils, curries, and vegetable dishes with a deep umami flavor.
- Substitute for Onion & Garlic – Commonly used in Jain and Hindu cuisine.
- Spice Blends – Found in Indian masalas, pickling spices, and chutneys.
- Ayurvedic & Traditional Medicine – Used for digestion, respiratory health, and bloating relief.
- Natural Preservative – Has antimicrobial properties to extend food shelf life.
- Aids Digestion – Reduces bloating, gas, and indigestion.
- Anti-Inflammatory Properties – Helps alleviate respiratory conditions and joint pain.
- Rich in Antioxidants – Supports immune function and cellular health.
- Antimicrobial & Antifungal – Fights infections and promotes gut health.
Nutritional Value of Asafoetida Powder (Per 100g)
- Energy: 297 kcal
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 67g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 2g
- Fats: 1g
- Saturated Fat: 0.3g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 0.2g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.2g
- Calcium: 690mg
- Iron: 39mg
- Magnesium: 80mg
- Phosphorus: 50mg
- Potassium: 620mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Zinc: 2.5mg
- Vitamin C: 2mg
- Folate (B9): 50µg
1. Physical & Chemical Properties of Cumin Seeds:-
| PROPERTIES | VALUES & LIMITS |
|---|---|
|
Scientific Name |
Ferula asafoetida
|
|
Family |
Apiaceae (Parsley family)
|
|
Shape & Size |
Fine, powdery consistency
|
|
Color |
Yellow to light brown
|
|
Aroma |
Pungent, sulfurous, onion-like
|
|
Taste |
Strong, umami, slightly bitter
|
|
Moisture Content |
≤ 10%
|
|
Essential Oil Content |
4% – 20% (Mainly Ferulic Acid)
|
|
Active Compounds |
Ferulic Acid, Sulfur Compounds, Eugenol
|
|
Ash Content |
≤ 7%
|
|
Impurities |
≤ 0.5% |
All Asfoetida Powder
2. Export & Shipping Details:-
| Mode of Transport | Packaging Type |
|---|---|
|
Domestic Distribution |
PP Bags, PET Pouches, Paper Boxes
|
|
Bulk Export (Sea Freight) |
25kg – 50kg Jute or PP Bags, Fumigated Pallets |
|
Retail Export (Air Freight) |
Vacuum-sealed pouches or glass jars |
|
Container Load (20ft FCL) |
Can accommodate approx. 12-14 metric tons of cumin seeds |
|
Container Load (40ft FCL) |
Can accommodate approx. 24-26 metric tons of cumin seeds |
Final Thoughts:-
Asafoetida Powder is a unique and essential spice known for its strong aroma and deep umami flavor. It is widely used in Indian and Middle Eastern cooking to enhance the taste of dishes, especially in lentils, vegetables, and pickles.
Beyond its culinary role, Asafoetida is highly valued in traditional medicine for its ability to aid digestion, reduce inflammation, fight infections, and support respiratory health. Whether used as a flavor enhancer or a natural remedy, Asafoetida Powder remains a powerful and versatile ingredient in both the kitchen and wellness practices.