Asafoetida

From Cargo Handbook - the world's largest cargo transport guidelines website
Infobox on Asafoetida
Example of Asafoetida
Asafoetida.gif
Facts
Origin Afghanistan, India
Stowage factor (in m3/t) 1,17/1,23 (cases)
Humidity / moisture
Ventilation
Risk factors See text

Asafoetida

Description

Asafoetida (Ferula assafoetida), (also known as devil's dung, stinking gum, asant, food of the gods, giant fennel, Jowani badian, hing and ting) is the dried latex (gum oleoresin) exuded from the living underground rhizome or tap root of several species of Ferula, which is a perennial herb (1 to 1.5 m high). The species is native to the mountains of Afghanistan, and is mainly cultivated in nearby India. Asafoetida has a pungent, unpleasant smell when raw, but in cooked dishes, it delivers a smooth flavor, reminiscent of leeks.

Application

The spice is used as a digestive aid and flavour enhancer, as a condiment in food and in pickles. Often used in Indian recipes.

Shipment / Storage / Risk factors

Very penetrating and offensive smell. Beware of odour contamination to other cargoes stowed in the vicinity. It is often stored in air-tight containers.

Deck or underdeck stowage to be decided per shipment.