How To Identify Pure Quality Saffron

Saffron is considered one of the world's most expensive spices, so if you are spending money, then it should be worth it.  Identifying a high-quality saffron is essential to ensure the authenticity and superior flavor of the spice.

Here are few ways to consider :

• Smell: Pure saffron aroma is very interesting. If u know what Honey smells like, and you also know what hay smells like…you would know what Real Saffron Aroma is. The smell of Pure Saffron is literally a blend of Honey & Hay. Sometimes the saffron has an almost chemical smell, this is due to the high levels of Picocrocin in the saffron, these are fake ones.
• Taste: A good saffron would always Smell Sweet and never Taste Sweet. The taste test is the best way to identify the original saffron. You can check the saffron's quality by putting a saffron thread in your mouth. If you feel a sweet taste, then you have low-quality or fake saffron. Pure quality saffron tastes slightly bitter.
• Appearance: The saffron thread is trumpet-shaped. If the thread doesn't bulge at one end, it's not real & If you rub real saffron between your fingers, your skin will turn yellow/orange.
• Cold Water Test: Put the few threads in a small container of tepid water, wait for at least 15 minutes. Real saffron slowly turns the water yellow. The color change may take up to an hour and the saffron threads themselves retain their red color. And on the other hand, if the water changes color immediately or turns red or the threads do not retain their color, the substance is not saffron, it is the "Fake Saffron" and is a sign of impurity.
• Rub The Saffron Threads With Fingers: After taking the Saffron threads out of the cold water and putting them on your finger, place them on your finger. The threads should be rubbed with two fingers back and forth. Pure Saffron threads will not break apart, whereas fake saffron will fall apart or become liquid.
• Baking Soda Test: Another way is to mix and dissolve a small amount of baking soda into some water. If you add saffron, the mixture should start turning yellow and show that the saffron is pure. If it becomes pale orangish, then it is fake and altered.