How colour, aroma, taste and a simple water test can give you a first impression of saffron quality.
Because it is so valuable, saffron is one of the most frequently imitated spices. Safflower, dyed plant fibres or the worthless parts of the saffron flower are sometimes sold as saffron. Fortunately, a few simple observations can give you a first impression of what you have bought.
1. Look at the colour
Good saffron threads are deep red. The tips may turn slightly orange, but many yellow or white pieces suggest that the worthless parts of the flower have been mixed in. Threads that are all exactly the same shade, overly shiny or oily-looking should raise suspicion.
2. Check the shape
Saffron threads are fine and separate easily; one end flares slightly like a tube or funnel. Straight, thick threads that look cut to the same length do not match the natural structure.
3. Smell it
Real saffron has an intense, distinctive, slightly honey-like and earthy aroma. Be cautious with products that have no smell or an artificial one.
4. Taste it
Saffron does not taste sweet; it is slightly bitter. A sweet taste may indicate that it has been treated with a sugary substance.
5. Do the water test
Place a few threads in warm water. Real saffron releases its colour slowly, over several minutes, turning the water golden yellow, while the threads largely stay red. Threads that quickly turn the water red, or lose their own colour and go pale, may not be real saffron.
Are these tests conclusive?
No. They only give an indication. Reliable information on quality and purity can only come from laboratory analysis. That is why we recommend suppliers who openly share origin, harvest season and batch information and answer your questions clearly.
Learn about Safranatolia's approach on our Quality and Traceability page.
