Why Mustard is Yellow

TL;DR

Mustard's yellow color comes from turmeric, which is also used in South Asian dishes and has medicinal qualities. Turmeric has shown potential anti-cancer properties, and mustard has a rich history dating back to ancient Rome.

Transcript

Why is Mustard is Yellow? A common misconception is that yellow mustard (the kind you put on your hot dog) is yellow because of the mustard seed. This is not true. The mustard seed is a dullish gray, brown color. The striking, bold yellow color actually comes from the rootstock of a plant called turmeric. Turmeric, native to the rainy humid tropica... Read More

Key Insights

• 💛 Yellow mustard's color comes from turmeric, not mustard seeds, which are grayish-brown.
• 👅 Turmeric is a versatile ingredient used in South Asian and Indian cuisine for its taste and color.
• 😒 Turmeric has a long history of medicinal use, including as an anti-inflammatory and potential cancer-fighting agent.
• 🤑 Mustard has a rich history dating back to ancient Rome and has variations like Dijon mustard.
• 🌍 Turmeric was introduced to the western world in the 12th and 13th centuries and was used as a substitute for saffron.
• 💛 The R.T. French Company introduced yellow mustard in 1904, incorporating turmeric for added color and presentation.
• 😒 The use of turmeric in mustard has been a significant factor in mustard's popularity and appeal.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Yellow mustard gets its color from turmeric, not mustard seeds, which are actually grayish-brown.

• Turmeric is a plant native to South Asia and is used as a natural food dye and in many Indian dishes.

• Turmeric has medicinal properties and has been used as an anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and potential cancer-fighting agent.