FOOD FRAUD: WHY TRUST AND TRANSPARENCY MATTER WHEN BUYING SPICES

The ABC Four Corners investigation, Duped: Food Exposed, has raised serious questions about the quality and authenticity of the spices we buy.

The investigation tested 28 turmeric products from 11 brands, uncovering issues with three brands, including illegal colouring agents, cheaper fillers and undeclared plant material.

When you buy a jar of turmeric, you expect it to contain turmeric — nothing less.

At Terreign, quality, transparency and accountability have always been central to how we operate. Here's what that means for the spices you bring into your home.

Quality Starts Before the Jar

We source A-grade spices and expect documentation supporting the authenticity, purity and origin of our ingredients. We also require evidence that each batch supplied to us has been tested for authenticity and purity.

Our turmeric is a clear example of our commitment to quality.

Our certified organic ground turmeric (Curcuma longa) contains 5% curcumin - a naturally occurring compound studied for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

We believe quality should be measurable, meaningful and supported by evidence.

Testing and Certification

Terreign operates under independently audited food safety and organic processing certification systems. Evidence of independent testing is a requirement within our certification processes.

We also maintain documented procedures for receiving, handling, processing and tracing our products. These measures support product integrity and accountability throughout our supply chain.

While no system can guarantee protection against every form of food fraud, independent oversight, testing and traceability are important safeguards.

Why Do Terreign Spices Cost More?

You're paying for quality, careful sourcing and standards that matter.

A-grade Spices

We select A-grade spices for their quality, flavour and aroma. Our focus is on the integrity of the ingredient, not simply producing at the lowest possible cost.

Considered Processing

How spices are handled after harvest matters. Some conventional supply chains use chemical fumigants, including ethylene oxide, to control microbial contamination. Steam sterilisation offers a heat-based alternative where used.

We prioritise careful handling and processing to help protect product quality and integrity.

No Unnecessary Additives

Our entire range is free from anti-caking agents, artificial fillers, bleach and unnecessary additives.

We believe spices should deliver the natural character of their ingredients, without unnecessary substances added to increase volume or reduce costs.

Certified Organic Practices

Maintaining certified organic practices requires additional care, documentation, segregation, traceability and certification throughout the supply chain. These practices require greater care, additional resources and higher investment than some conventional production methods.

Ethical Sourcing

We believe farmers and producers deserve to be paid fairly for their work. We value responsible sourcing and supplier relationships that prioritise quality over price alone.

Together, these commitments contribute to the cost of our premium spice range. When you choose Terreign, you're investing in A-grade quality, considered sourcing and the standards behind every jar.

Transparency You Can Trust

We believe brands should be willing to support their claims with evidence.

If you'd like more information about a Terreign product, including our turmeric, simply contact us with the product name and batch number.

We can provide the relevant Certificate of Analysis and/or Certificate of Conformance, and confirm the country or region your particular spice comes from.

Because trust should be built on facts, not just marketing claims.

What Should You Look for When Buying Spices?

When choosing spices, look beyond the packaging. Consider whether a brand can explain:

• Where its ingredients come from.

• What quality controls and testing it follows.

• How it maintains traceability.

• Whether it can provide supporting documentation.

Certifications matter, but so do supplier accountability and transparency.

Our Promise to You

Our commitment to quality, food safety, ethical sourcing and transparency isn't a response to a news investigation. It's how we've always chosen to do business.

We're proud to source A-grade spices, prioritise certified organic practices where applicable and uphold standards designed to give our customers confidence in what they buy.

Good food starts with good ingredients. Trust starts with knowing where they come from.

Have a Question About a Terreign Product?

Contact us with your product name and batch number to request relevant product documentation or confirm its origin.