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Saffron Point: Are you not eating fake even after buying expensive saffron? Identify purity in 5 ways

Samira Vishwas | August 29, 2025 11:25 AM CST

Saffron is one of the world’s most expensive spices — prized for its aroma, color, and medicinal value. But with rising demand, the market is flooded with adulterated or fake saffron, which not only wastes your money but can also harm your health. Here are 5 simple tests to help you identify pure saffron at home:

1. Water Test

Drop a few saffron strands in water.
Pure saffron releases a deep red-yellow hue slowly.
Fake saffron instantly turns water bright red or orange.
Tip: Real strands retain their shape even after soaking.

2. Smell Test

Pure saffron has a distinct honey-grass aroma — subtle yet rich.
Fake saffron often smells artificial or has no scent at all.
Warning: Overpowering or chemical-like smell = adulteration.

3. Taste Test

Real saffron tastes slightly bitter and earthy.
If it tastes sweet, it’s fake.
Note: Taste test should be done cautiously and only with trusted samples.

4. Thread Texture Test

Pure saffron threads are thin, pointed, and flower-like at the tip.
Fake ones look uniform, straight, and often break easily.
Check: Real threads don’t crumble when twisted gently.

5. Burn Test

Burn a saffron strand.
Pure saffron doesn’t catch fire easily and emits a mild aroma.
Fake saffron burns quickly due to added chemicals or dyes.

Why It Matters

Fake saffron may contain synthetic dyes and harmful additives. Knowing how to test purity ensures you get the full health benefits — from antioxidant protection to mood enhancement — without risking your well-being.