How To Check The Purity Of Saffron At Home? Try These 5 Easy Tests

Saffron, the coveted 'red gold,' has been a treasured spice for centuries, renowned for its mesmerising hue, unique flavour and impressive array of health benefits. Beyond its culinary allure, saffron has gained a loyal following in the realm of skincare with many swearing by its extraordinary properties. However, its luxurious reputation has also made it a prime target for counterfeiters, threatening to undermine its genuine benefits. As the demand for saffron continues to soar, the distinction between authentic and adulterated versions becomes increasingly crucial, making it essential to identify the real ones. Here, we've listed some easy tests that you can try at home to check the purity of saffron or kesar.

Tests To Idenitfy Real Saffron

Colour Test

A distinctive characteristic of genuine saffron is its gradual colour release. When submerged in water, authentic saffron threads slowly unfurl their golden-yellow hue whereas fake versions hastily surrender their colour, often staining the water a deep red hue.

Check Taste And Smell

Genuine saffron's flavour profile is unmistakable, boasting a delicate sweetness, earthy undertones and a whisper of honey-like fragrance. In contrast, adulterated saffron often betrays itself with a harsh, bitter taste and a lacklustre aroma, failing to evoke the sensory delight of authentic saffron.

ALSO READ: What Are The Common Adulterants In Paneer And How To Identify Them At Home?

Check The Appearance

Authentic saffron strands display a characteristic deep crimson colour and a distinctive flared, trumpet-like end. They also possess a subtle sheen, suppleness and slight moisture. In contrast, fake saffron appears dull, flat and brittle, lacking the natural texture and vibrant colour of genuine saffron.

Ways to identify fake saffron (Image Credits: Canva)

Solubility Test

When steeped in warm milk, real saffron threads gradually unfurl their vibrant colour and fragrance over 10-15 minutes, retaining their texture. Conversely, fake saffron swiftly disintegrates and leaves behind a lacklustre, colourless residue that reveals its artificial nature.

ALSO READ: How To Check If Your Store-Bought Ginger Garlic Paste Is Pure Or Adulterated?

Paper Test

When placed on a damp paper towel, genuine saffron threads maintain their deep red colour, resisting the moisture. In contrast, counterfeit saffron rapidly bleeds, spreading its colour across the paper, exposing its artificial composition. It's one of the simple yet effective tests to reveal the authenticity of saffron.