Saffron, despite its high cost, has several advantages. To enjoy the benefits of Saffron, you need to purchase high-quality/real Saffron. However, not all Saffron is equal in terms of quality. When buying Saffron, you may accidentally purchase low-quality Saffron or be unaware of the difference between real and fake Saffron. Various tests can help you identify high-quality Saffron to combat this problem.
There are various ways to test/check the quality of Saffron, but let us highlight seven of them so that you may compare and contrast real and fake Saffron.
1.Cold water color release:
Fill a dish halfway with cold water and a few saffron strands. The color of the “Real Saffron” will gradually shift to a golden color. Allow some time for the color to change, as it could take up to an hour. The crimson hue of the saffron threads is retained. The substance is not saffron if the water changes color immediately, turns red, does not change color, or if the threads do not hold their color. The product is subsequently referred to as “Fake Saffron” and is a symptom of adulteration.
2.Using your fingers, rub the saffron threads:
Please take a couple of Saffron threads and place them on your finger after soaking them in cold water for a few minutes. Rub the threads back and forth two or three times with your fingers. You’re dealing with fake Saffron or low-quality Saffron if the saffron threads convert to liquid or dust or fall apart. The threads of pure Saffron will not break.
3.Taste it:
You can also test the quality of Saffron by putting a saffron thread in your mouth. If you detect a sweet flavor, you’re dealing with low-quality Saffron. Saffron of high quality has a slightly bitter taste.
4.Smell:
Saffron should smell sweet, but it should never taste sweet!
5.Shape and color:
Saffrons of high quality are deep red with little to no yellow, and the threads are trumpet-shaped.
6.Use baking soda:
Finally, in a tiny cup filled with water, combine baking soda and Saffron to test the grade of pure Saffron. If the mixture becomes yellow, it means the Saffron is pure.
7.Cost:
If it’s not very pricey, it’s probably not real Saffron, which is regarded to be an expensive spice.
These tests might assist you in obtaining genuine Saffron and appreciating its numerous benefits.
Tips for buying Saffron
Never buy a Saffron that has been ground. Even if your recipe calls for ground, you can at least tell if it’s real if you buy it in threads. Once they’ve been ground, it’s nearly impossible to tell the difference between authentic and false or contaminated substances. Plus, even if true, pulverized Saffron may contain fillers like colored rice flour, starch, or other spices like turmeric or paprika.
It may seem self-evident, but remember to buy from a reliable source is always a good idea. That source could be a store you know and trust or an online merchant you’ve checked out.
