On its own or combined with other spices, turmeric can add flavor to a healthy lifestyle. “One of the topics that has been of interest to our customers is the connection between turmeric and relief from inflammation,” notes Wegmans Service Manager Bob Palmer. “While reading about the benefits of turmeric, I found it interesting that typical consumption of turmeric in India is one-quarter teaspoon per day.”

According to the Mayo Clinic, eating a well-balanced diet that contains antioxidant-rich foods such as turmeric helps fight inflammation and relieve pain. Research suggests that inflammation, the body’s reaction to injury or infection, is linked to diet and nutrition.

Turmeric is the bright, yellow-orange root of a tropical plant native to Indonesia and South India. The spice is made by grinding the dried root. Fresh turmeric can be grated, diced or pressed, and lends a warm, slightly bitter flavor to recipes. The vibrant spice adds color to mustard and curry powder, and flavor to smoothies, marinades, stews and roasted vegetables.

“In an effort to support our customers, we created an endcap featuring turmeric where customers can easily locate the spice, as well as supplements and recipes,” explains Palmer. “Our team created a turmeric latte recipe and shared samples with customers. While there were mixed reviews on the taste, for the most part, it was well-received.”

Wegmans philosophy of “helping families live healthier, better lives through food,” gives direction for the choice, quality and value of products available for purchase. Listening to customer feedback also influences inventory selection, because Wegmans is committed to providing outstanding customer service.

Wegmans Food Market is located at 6416 Carlisle Pike, Ste. 2000, in Mechanicsburg. For more information, call 717-791-4500 or visit Wegmans.com/Stores/Harrisburg-PA.html.

Turmeric Latte

Yield: 1 cup serving

Total time: 5 minutes

Calories: 110

1 cup Wegmans organic unsweetened vanilla almond milk

½ tsp ground turmeric

1/8 tsp ground cinnamon

1/16 tsp ground cardamom

4 whole black peppercorns

1 tsp Wegmans organic unrefined coconut oil (optional)

1 tsp Wegmans organic pure maple syrup (optional)

Add almond milk, turmeric, cinnamon, cardamom, peppercorns, coconut oil and maple syrup to blender. Blend on high for 1 minute.

Transfer mixture to saucepan on medium heat, whisking, until temperature reaches about 120 degrees. (Check with thermometer.)

Chef Tip: If available, heat latte to about 120 degrees using steamer wand on expresso machine.