Washington, October 7 (Daily Kiran) : Indian spices are making their mark in American households, according to Vinay Mohan Kwatra, India’s Ambassador to the United States. He stated that these spices have transcended mere culinary enjoyment, becoming integral to health, wellness, and daily eating habits.
During a special event at India House honoring Indian spices, Kwatra emphasized that their increasing presence in America reflects a cultural connection that goes beyond commercial interests. “Spices are more than just a business. They represent a significant aspect of Indian identity reaching American homes,” he remarked.
The gathering included members of the American Spice Trade Association, representatives from the food industry, and guests at the ambassador’s residence. Kwatra described spices as a vital link to Indian civilization, connecting contemporary Indian households to their ancient heritage.
“I always tell people, and I firmly believe, that if there’s one thing that hasn’t changed in Indian society over thousands of years, it’s spices. I use the same spices my mother taught me to use, just as her mother did before her. This story continues from generation to generation,” he noted.
He pointed out that this tradition is now gaining traction beyond India, with a global network emerging. Kwatra highlighted turmeric as an example, noting how this essential component of Indian life has become part of modern American food culture.
Recalling his previous posting in Washington from 2010 to 2013, he mentioned that turmeric lattes were virtually unheard of in American cafes at that time. “I don’t remember seeing turmeric lattes on cafe menus back then,” he said.
Kwatra compared the recent popularity of turmeric in American cafes to its longstanding use in India and its significance in Ayurveda. He stressed that turmeric has played a “very important role” in traditional Indian practices.
In a separate conversation, he shared that the history of Indian spices spans thousands of years, and Americans are quickly becoming familiar with them. “The most gratifying aspect is that in recent years, we have not only brought Indian spices into American homes but also educated American society about their overall health benefits,” he said. “Thus, the use and spread of Indian spices in America is not limited to flavor; it truly embodies the essence of life, benefiting the body and overall health.”
Kwatra expressed a desire for Indian spices to become deeply integrated into American dietary habits. “The goal is for Indian spices to spread widely and become a part of American eating practices,” he stated.
He linked the growing interest in spices to another current trend in food: the rising popularity of organic products. He argued that what is often labeled as modern and healthy eating frequently has roots in traditional food practices.
“I mean, we say organic food is trending today. In reality, organic food is just old food, healthy food from the past. So, in a way, modern trends are returning to their roots, at least in this regard,” Kwatra explained.
He concluded that merely marketing spices isn’t enough to build lasting relationships with consumers. Understanding their history and connections to food and lifestyle is essential. “This is part of my upbringing. I don’t think you can market spices in any other way,” he added.
For centuries, Indian spices have traveled to various parts of the world, playing a crucial role in India’s historic trade and cultural relations with other nations. Spices like turmeric, cumin, chili, fennel, and black pepper are fundamental in the culinary practices of diverse regions across India.
As awareness of Indian cuisine and its culinary traditions grows, so does the recognition of these spices in America. Products and drinks made from ingredients like turmeric are no longer confined to specialty Indian stores; they are rapidly carving out a space in the larger American food and wellness market.
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