Ingredient Information

Function

Spinach powder is also known as Spinacia oleracea or common garden spinach. Spinach powder is added to soups, stews and salad dressings for its spinach flavor. It can be added to health drinks and non-alcoholic beverages for the flavoring as well. It imparts color and flavor to dried or fresh pastas. However, it will not taste the same as fresh spinach or retain the same characteristics. It is also added to gravy mixes, smoothies, soups and crackers.

Other Use and Industries

Apart from serving the food industry, spinach powder has medicinal uses as well. It is also sometimes used in the soap manufacturing industry.

Health Effects

Spinach powder is loaded with Vitamins A, C and K, as well as minerals. It contains manganese, calcium, phosphorous, sodium, beta-carotene, potassium, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, folic acid and high amounts of chlorophyll. Being packed with the abovementioned nutrients, spinach powder strengthens the immune system and helps improve heart diseases, cancer, inflammation of the lungs, osteoporosis, arthritis, anemia, jaundice, asthma and allergies. It increases brain functioning, detoxifies the gastrointestinal tract, cleanses the colon, boosts energy levels and treats urinary calculi.

However, those suffering from rheumatics, arthritis, kidney stones, gout and hyperactivity should consult their physician and be cautious with dosages of spinach powder because it might aggravate their condition.

Origins

Spinach is believed to have originated in the Middle East. Spinach powder is not fresh spinach. Spinach powder is prepared from dehydrated, raw spinach leaves. The leaves undergo dehydration until they are crisp enough to be turned into powder form. Once the crisp form is achieved, the spinach leaves are put in the blender to obtain the final product.