Fenugreek Seeds
Fenugreek seeds (Trigonella foenum-graecum) are widely used in culinary, medicinal, and industrial applications. Below are the general specifications:
1. Physical & Chemical Properties:
Appearance: Small, hard, yellowish-brown seeds
Odor: Strong, characteristic maple-like aroma
Taste: Bitter, slightly nutty
Size: 3-5 mm in length
Moisture Content: ≤ 10%
Total Ash: ≤ 9%
Acid Insoluble Ash: ≤ 1.5%
Volatile Oil Content: 0.3-0.5%
Purity: Available in 98% and 99% purity grades
2. Microbiological Limits:
Total Plate Count: ≤ 100,000 CFU/g
Yeast & Mold: ≤ 1,000 CFU/g
E. Coli: Absent
Salmonella: Absent
Aflatoxins (B1, B2, G1, G2): Within permissible limits
3. Heavy Metals & Contaminants:
Lead (Pb): ≤ 2 ppm
Arsenic (As): ≤ 1 ppm
Cadmium (Cd): ≤ 1 ppm
Pesticide Residue: Within permissible limits as per international standards
4. Applications:
Food Industry: Used as a spice and flavoring agent in curries, pickles, and spice blends
Pharmaceuticals: Used for its medicinal properties in blood sugar control and digestion
Cosmetics: Used in skincare and hair care products
Animal Feed: Used as a supplement for livestock
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