India more than tripled its exports to the US in 1997 and the cheaper prices of Indian ginger are a main reason why total import value fell by 8 percent. In baking, ginger is used in biscuits and gingerbread and it is also used as a seasoning. Ginger is often used for medicinal purposes, employed to calm nausea and aid digestion. Turmeric India continues to dominate the US turmeric market as it supplied over 95 percent of import demand in 1997. Total import volume increased by 7 percent and import value increased by 22 percent.
Turmeric is marketed in fingers, bulbs, and splits.
Fingers are of best quality and command the highest prices. Turmeric is mostly used in curry powder, but can also be found in other spice mixes. It is used to color mustard in the US and to season hot dogs and snack foods. The increase in the popularity of curry powder and other spice blends are factors in boosting the demand for turmeric. Anise Anise is used in both whole and ground form to flavor candies and pastries and has a flavor similar to licorice.