Spice guide / Nutmeg
What is Nutmeg?
Kernel of the nutmeg fruit. UK import controls can apply to nutmeg/mace/cardamom categories.
Short answer: Nutmeg (Hindi: जायफल) is Myristica fragrans. Warm, sweet, woody. Culinary use only — not a medicine.
| Common name | Nutmeg |
|---|---|
| Hindi | जायफल |
| Sanskrit | — |
| Botanical name | Myristica fragrans |
| Family | Myristicaceae |
| Origin | India — Kerala |
| Main producing regions | Kerala |
| Flavour | Warm, sweet, woody |
| Aroma | — |
| Forms | whole, powder |
| Retail packs | 100g–5kg (typical; see products) |
| Bulk | 10kg+ |
What is Nutmeg?
Nutmeg is Myristica fragrans kernel. Some dried spice categories from India currently face increased official controls — treat as a compliance workflow, not a marketing footnote.
History of Nutmeg
Origin
India — Kerala
Growing regions
Kerala
How it is grown
Harvest
Processing
Grades
- Standard: Admin-configured commercial grade
- Premium: Admin-configured higher visual/purity selection
- Export Grade: Only show when export specifications exist for the lot
- Machine Cleaned: Machine cleaned — confirm process for the lot
Only grades that apply to a lot should be shown at purchase. These are templates, not invented industry certificates.
Flavour, aroma and colour
Warm, sweet, woody. . Colour: . Heat: none.
Whole vs ground
Nutmeg is sold whole (or as seed/leaf) and as a ground form. Whole keeps aroma longer in a UK cupboard; grind or crush just before cooking when you can. Powder is convenient for daily dal, curry and marinades — buy a pack you will finish in a few months.
Culinary uses
- Sweets
- Garam masala
- Bechamel-style sauces
- Meat
Traditional uses
Recorded in culinary tradition. Traditional use is not scientific evidence of a medical effect.
SpicyCenter does not claim that spices cure, treat or prevent disease.
Storage and shelf life
Nutrition
Nutmeg is a culinary seasoning. Nutrition values are pack-specific and must match the label for UK/EU sale. We do not claim that this spice treats, cures or prevents disease.
Buying guide
Retail packs typically run from 100g to 5kg. Bulk starts at 10kg. Selling prices are checkout prices. Indian market figures, when present, are indicative only.
