Have you ever thought about why it is so hard to find pure saffron? Just imagine you’re standing in a shop or browsing online, hoping to buy saffron, the “Red Gold” known for its rich color, aroma, and health benefits. But then the confusion begins. Why does one brand sell five times more than another? Why do some saffron threads look bright red while others are pale or mixed with yellow? You ask yourself, “How do I know if I’m buying quality saffron?
Many people spend their hard-earned money on saffron without knowing how to test its purity. Sadly, the market is full of fake or low-quality saffron mixed with dye, colored threads, or even harmful chemicals. If you want the best for your family, whether it’s for cooking, wellness, or beauty, learning how to identify genuine saffron is essential.
In this blog, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about saffron. From the aroma and color to simple saffron tests you can try at home. Plus, we’ll talk about how to choose the best saffron brand in India.
Understanding What Quality Saffron Means
Before we discuss tests, let’s understand what makes saffron “quality saffron.
Quality saffron comes from the stigmas of the Crocus sativus flower. Each flower only produces three saffron threads, and it takes about 75,000 flowers to make just one pound of saffron. That’s why pure saffron is so expensive.
Good saffron should have:
- A strong natural aroma (similar to honey or hay)
- Deep red threads (with little to no yellow)
- A bitter or earthy taste (not sweet)
- The ability to color water or milk golden yellow within minutes
The Aroma Of Saffron
One of the easiest ways to check saffron quality is through its aroma. Pure saffron has a strong, sweet, yet earthy aroma. Some say it smells like a mix of honey, hay, and metallic notes. If it smells too mild or like artificial perfume, it’s probably fake or low quality.
Quick Aroma Test
To check the aroma, take a few saffron strands, rub them between your fingers, and smell. If the smell is weak or doesn’t last long, it’s not fresh or pure.
The Colour: Look Beyond the Red
Many people think bright red colour means good saffron. But there’s more to it.
What Colour Should It Be?
High-quality saffron has deep red threads, sometimes with a little orange at the tip. You should always avoid saffron with yellow or white parts, which reduces its strength and quality.
Simple Saffron Test Using Water or Milk
Drop a few threads into warm water or milk. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes.
- Pure saffron will release a golden yellow color slowly.
- Fake saffron will color the liquid quickly and unnaturally, often bright red or orange.
- Also, the threads of real saffron will not lose color or break down easily.
This saffron test is one of the easiest ways to check at home.
The Taste Says A Lot
Saffron is not sweet. Many people are surprised when they taste it for the first time. Quality saffron has a bitter, slightly earthy taste. If the saffron tastes sweet or has no taste at all, it might be fake or flavored artificially.
The Shape & Structure
Real saffron threads have a trumpet-shaped end, and they are not similar. No two threads will look exactly the same.
Saffron Tests You Can Do at Home
Here are a few simple saffron tests to check for purity:
1. Water Test (As mentioned above)
Put a few threads in warm water and observe color release and thread strength.
2. Baking Soda Test
Mix a pinch of baking soda in water, then add saffron.
- Pure saffron will turn the water yellowish.
- Fake saffron may turn it red or orange quickly.
3. Paper Rub Test
Rub saffron between moistened fingers or on white paper.
- Real saffron will stain your skin or paper yellow.
- Fake ones often leave a red or orange color.
Choosing the Right Saffron Brand in India
Now that you know how to test saffron, the next step is choosing a reliable brand. India is home to Kashmiri saffron, known for its rich aroma and quality.
When picking a saffron brand in India, look for:
- Brands that show lab test reports
- Good reviews from real users
- Airtight packaging and clear product labelling
Some popular saffron brands in India include:
- Baby Brand Saffron
- The Kashmir Box
- House of Saffron
- Rasayanam Kashmiri Saffron
Always buy from trusted websites or verified sellers.
Why Quality Saffron Matters
Using poor-quality or fake saffron doesn’t just waste money—it can be harmful. Adulterated saffron may contain color chemicals or synthetic materials that can cause allergies or stomach problems.
On the other hand, real saffron is packed with benefits like:
- Supporting mood and mental health
- Boosting immunity
- Improving skin glow
- Aiding in digestion
So, investing in quality saffron is an investment in your health.
Final Thoughts
Buying saffron shouldn’t feel like a gamble. Once you know how to identify real saffron—by its aroma, color, taste, and texture– you can feel confident in your choice.
Remember:
- Always do a simple saffron test before using.
- Choose a trusted saffron brand in India.
Don’t fall for cheap prices or fake promises.