Cumin is a small annual herbaceous plant (Cuminum cyminum) that is a member of the parsley family (Umbelliferae). It is a native of the eastern Mediterranean countries and Upper Egypt, but is now cultivated in Morocco, Iran, Turkey, India, China and the Americas. The seeds of the plant are used to add flavour to spicy dishes. They are also used as an appetite stimulant and to ease several stomach disorders.
This brief outlines the important steps that should be taken pre-harvest and post-harvest to ensure that the dried cumin is of top quality for the market.
