Tamarind Kernel Powder:
The major industrial use of the seeds is in the manufacture
of Tamarind Kernel Powder (TKP). It is prepared by
decorticating the seed and pulverising the creamy white
kernels. The decorticated seed is ground by machines to
the required mesh size to obtain a yield of 55-60%. The
powder tends to deteriorate during storage under humid
conditions, hence storage in a dry place in moisture proof
containers is important. Mixing with 0.5% of sodium
bisulphite before packing will prevent enzymatic
deterioration. The TKP will become rancid and brown if
stored inadequately and the storage ability and colour will
be better if it is defatted [58]. The general characteristic of a
good tamarind seed powder is that it should have the
characteristic flavouring when dissolved in water and be
free of any burnt or other undesirable flavours; it should
have good keeping quality and be free from any insect
pests, fungal growth or extraneous materials.
The TKP, when boiled in water containing boric acid and
phenol as preservatives, gives a very good paper adhesive.
In India, TKP is used as a source of carbohydrate for the
adhesive or binding agent in paper and textile sizing, and
weaving and jute products as well as textile printing [59].
The sizing property of TKP is due to the presence of up to
60% of the polysaccharide. A high grade adhesive from
tamarind seed kernels could be prepared by roasting the
seeds at 110 TKP can be mixed with other concentrates to
make ca. 25% manufactured cattle feed. Another
commercial application can be in production of varnish
[60], and TKP can be used as a vegetable clarifier