Harnessing the Power of Turmeric
Awarded by Germany, these patents include ten focused on turmeric-based innovations and three on unique methods of producing CNG gas. Ajinkya Kottawar, speaking to The Hitavada, shared the team’s vision: “India produces a significant share of the world’s turmeric, but many turmeric-based products are patented abroad and imported back into India. Our goal is to harness turmeric’s potential and make it a transformative resource here.”
Advancements in Curcumin Extraction
One of the team’s key innovations involves boosting the natural curcumin concentration in turmeric from the standard 8.5% to 13%, making the turmeric more potent for various applications. Kottawar explained, “After we increased curcumin levels, we developed new turmeric by-products. We created an extraction method that achieves up to 90% curcumin efficiency, compared to the usual 50%, significantly reducing waste.”
Expanding Turmeric-Based Products
Each member contributed to a diverse array of products designed to enhance daily life, such as:
Turmeric Oil: This can be blended with food oils, merging health benefits with culinary uses.
Oleoresin Extraction: With applications in fertilizers and medicines, this compound shows promising utility.
Turmeric-Based Pastes: The team developed a toothpaste for oral health and a cooking paste to enhance food naturally.
Turmeric Juices and Decoctions: Organic and easy to consume, these products serve as natural health supplements.
Turmeric Slices: These can be ground into powder, offering an organic, preservative-free option.
Innovations in CNG Production
The team’s ingenuity also shines in three patents focused on sustainable CNG production. They devised a method using tissue-cultured napier grass and other plants to grow crops that produce bio-gas. This process allows farmers to turn crop waste into valuable CNG fuel, providing an eco-friendly alternative to traditional energy sources.
A Vision for Sustainable Growth
The team envisions these innovations benefiting not only households but also farmers across India. By introducing sustainable and locally sourced alternatives, they aim to reduce dependency on imported products and support self-sufficiency in the agro-tech and health sectors.
Reflecting on their achievements, Ajinkya Kottawar emphasized the team’s shared commitment: “We’re working to empower farmers and consumers, transforming traditional resources into modern, eco-friendly, and economically viable solutions.”
This dedicated group of innovators exemplifies the potential of blending ancient wisdom with modern science, setting a blueprint for sustainable growth that aligns with today’s demands and tomorrow’s promise.