Turmeric is also used as a colouring agent. In ancient times Turmeric was used as a dye and frequently used to colour Monk’s robes. It is still used as a dye today in some Asian countries. Turmeric is commonly used also to give the colour to commercial mustards, cheeses, margarines as well as many other foods. Turmeric used to be known as Indian Saffron because its colouring properties were similar to but much cheaper to use than saffron.