Fenugreek seeds (Trigonella foenum-graecum) are widely used in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries due to their nutritional and medicinal properties. Below are the general specifications for fenugreek seeds:
Physical Properties:
Appearance: Small, hard, oblong seeds with angular edges
Color: Golden yellow to light brown
Odor & Taste: Strong, characteristic aroma with a slightly bitter taste
Size: 3-5 mm in length
Purity: 99% minimum (export quality)
Foreign Matter: Max 0.5%
Moisture Content: Max 6-8%
Admixture: Max 0.5-2%
Chemical Properties:
Protein Content: 20-30%
Carbohydrates: 50-60%
Fat Content: 6-8%
Dietary Fiber: 20-25%
Saponins: 2-5%
Mucilage Content: 20-30%
Ash Content: Max 3%
Microbiological Standards:
Total Plate Count: Max 100,000 CFU/g
Yeast & Mold: Max 1,000 CFU/g
Coliforms: <10 CFU/g
E. Coli: Absent
Salmonella: Absent
Aflatoxins (B1, B2, G1, G2): Max 10 ppb
Contaminants & Adulterants:
Pesticide Residues: As per country-specific regulations (FSSAI, EU, FDA)
Heavy Metals:
Lead (Pb): <0.2 ppm
Cadmium (Cd): <0.1 ppm
Arsenic (As): <0.1 ppm
Mercury (Hg): <0.05 ppm
Artificial Additives & Preservatives: Must be absent
Foreign Matter: Max 0.5%
Applications of Fenugreek Seeds:
Food Industry: Used in spice blends, pickles, curries, and herbal teas
Pharmaceuticals & Ayurveda: Used for its anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, and digestive benefits
Cosmetics & Personal Care: Used in hair care and skincare formulations
Animal Feed: Used as a nutritional supplement for livestock