How to Tell Real Saffron from Fake: 5 Simple Ways

Saffron – the red gold of nature – is one of the most valuable and expensive spices in the world. Unfortunately, that high value makes it a prime target for counterfeit products. In this article, we’ll explore simple and effective ways to distinguish real saffron from fake, so you can shop with confidence.

1. Color Test: Don’t Be Fooled by Appearance

Genuine saffron threads are deep red with slightly yellow tips. If the threads are too uniformly bright red or look glossy and artificial, they may have been dyed.

Tip: Fake saffron is often colored with synthetic dyes to look more appealing.

2. Smell Test: Trust the Aroma

Real saffron has a unique fragrance – a mix of honey, hay, and a hint of metallic sharpness. If your saffron smells too strong (like perfume) or lacks scent entirely, it’s likely not genuine.

3. Water Test: Observe the Color Release

Drop a few saffron threads into warm water. Pure saffron:

• Releases color slowly over a few minutes
• Keeps its thread color after soaking

If the threads lose their color quickly or the water turns bright red almost instantly, it’s likely fake.

4. Flame Test: Burn and Observe

Hold a saffron strand over a small flame. Real saffron does not burn easily and emits a mild herbal or hay-like aroma. Fake saffron may burn rapidly and smell like chemicals or plastic.

5. Baking Soda Test: The DIY Chemistry

Mix baking soda with water and add a bit of saffron. If there’s no major color change, it’s pure. A strong reaction or discoloration might indicate synthetic additives.

Why Choose Herbay?

At Herbay, we only use premium-grade Iranian saffron – handpicked, lab-tested, and 100% natural. Every thread we deliver is sourced from trusted farms and comes with a full authenticity guarantee.

Conclusion

You don’t need a lab to tell real saffron from fake. With a few simple tests and awareness, you can avoid being tricked. Always buy from reputable brands and trusted stores. If you're new to saffron, try a small tester pack from Herbay – and experience the real golden threads yourself.