Turmeric is a rhizomatous herbaceous perennial plant of the ginger family, Zingiberaceae. It is native to southern Asia, requiring temperatures between 20 and 30 °C and a considerable amount of annual rainfall to thrive. It is used as an agent to impart a golden yellow color. It is used in canned beverages, baked products, dairy products, ice cream, yogurt, yellow cakes, orange juice, biscuits, popcorn color, cereals, sauces, gelatins, etc. It is a significant ingredient in most commercial curry powders. Not clear why this has been added unless it is to contribute to the green colour of the paste, or to add some spicy flavour.

Xanthan gum is a polysaccharide secreted by the bacterium Xanthomonas campestris, used as a food additive and rheology modifier, commonly used as a food thickening agent and a stabilizer. It has been found to be a highly efficient laxative.

Citric acid is a naturally occurring acid which is found in large quantities in fruits – notably citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons and certain berries. Today, specific strains of the mold Aspergillus niger are used in the industrial production of the citric acid via a fermentation process. The acid provides a sharp, sour taste which increases appetite and enhances flavor. Note that citric acid and vitamin C (ascorbic acid) are two completely different substances. Side effects include stomach cramps, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting.

Yellow #5 is Tartrazine and as such requires a special warning on food packages sold in the European Union. No such warning requirement exists in the United States, although Tartrazine (or Yellow No. 5) is always supposed to be identified on ingredients lists when used in packaged foods. Tartrazine appears to cause the most allergic and intolerance reactions of all the azo dyes, particularly among asthmatics and those with an aspirin intolerance. 

Hyperactivity in Children

In children, yellow #5 has been found to cause hyperactivity. The FSA (Food Standards Agency) in Britain released a warning about yellow #5 and other food dyes in 2008, stating that they may cause hyperactivity and loss of concentration in children. They recommended that parents restrict the use of products containing these dyes.

Anxiety and Depression 

In people sensitive to tartrazine, anxiety and depression, fatigue, headaches, and sleep problems have been reported.

Rashes

Hives and itching have been reported in people who are sensitive to yellow #5.

Asthma Trigger

People with asthma have been found to be especially sensitive to yellow #5, which can trigger their condition. Those whose asthma is triggered by aspirin may be the most sensitive to yellow #5.

Cancer

Yellow #5 can sometimes be tainted with the carcinogenic chemicals benzidine and 4-aminob ciphenyl or with chemicals that can be converted into those chemicals by the body.