The global saffron (kesar) market is valued at USD 1.29 billion in 2022. And the market will double down within the next few years.
Why?
Because the culinary use of authentic saffron can enhance the flavor and also the visual appeal of various dishes across different cuisines.
From Indian to Persian, from risotto to bouillabaisse, saffron is a great secret ingredient you can use for great health benefits and transforming the taste profile.
But when there’s a high surge in an industry, the chances of adulteration and fake products in the supply chain increases.
Saffron industry also couldn't escape the wrath of this trend.
So, it’s important for you to be aware of how to spot the fakes and only consume authentic and potent saffron.
Before you jump into the nitty-gritty of becoming Sherlock Holmes, let’s understand the details about one of the most prized spices in the world.
A Brief About Saffron
Saffron, also known as Kesar, is known for being one of the most expensive spices in the world. It is harvested from the stigmas of the Crocus Sativus flower and the process is labor-intensive, which adds to its value.
Saffron cultivation is a complex process and it is handled very carefully by the local farms. The flowering stage occurs between October and November which lasts for three weeks.
Each flower, which has a lifespan of around 48 hours, is harvested by hand, a tradition that has been upheld for years by farmers.
However, this vital agricultural activity faces challenges due to unpredictable weather patterns and inadequate irrigation that jeopardizes the crop's sustainability.
It increases the overall price in the market and creates a huge gap in the supply and demand.
That’s where notorious players come in and push in the fake saffron in the market.
But you don’t need to fall in their trap.
Here’s how you can identify fake saffron instantly.
How to Identify Fake Saffron Instantly?
If you have physical access to saffron, there are different aspects that can separate the authentic and rare one from the fakes.
Here’s how you can do it instantly.
1. Spot The Turmeric Substitution
You may be surprised that turmeric is marketed as "fake saffron." Although turmeric is a distinct spice commonly used in curry powders, it is passed off as saffron due to its lower cost and similar color.
But you can instantly distinguish it as turmeric lacks saffron's unique aroma and flavor.
2. Avoid safflower deception
Another common trick that many vendors and scammers use is that they sell dried safflower petals as saffron.
Safflower is similar in appearance as saffron but again it lacks saffron’s distinct aroma and taste. Being a cheaper alternative to saffron it doesn’t have any culinary or medicinal benefits compared to popular spices you want to have.
3. Stay away from dyed impostors
There are many imposters in the market like corn silk or dried beef shreds which are cut into pieces and dyed with red food coloring to resemble saffron. These impostors may look similar to saffron but are completely different in taste and aroma.
So, one aspect is clear: to instantly spot the fake saffron while purchasing, you must be aware of the taste and aroma of the authentic one.
But how to know that?
You can purchase one from Pahadi Amrut’s range of saffron like the GI-tag approved Kistwar Gucchi Kesar and Pampore Kashmiri Kesar and run multiple purity tests at home to confirm the authenticity.
How To Verify The Purity of Saffron(Kesar)?
Before we go through the verification process at your home, you must have a brief idea regarding the genuine saffron threads, or stigmas. An authentic saffron stigma has a unique trumpet shape: they start thin at the base and widen at the top.
Due to its brittle nature, saffron can break easily during packaging. If the threads are broken into smaller pieces, look closely for the characteristic trumpet shape. When it comes to the aroma of the authentic saffron it is potent, sweet, and earthy.
If the aroma is faint or absent, it could indicate a lower quality or fake product. But sometimes it can be hard for you to confirm the authenticity and the premium grade of saffron.
Note: There are multiple grades in saffron but it’s ideal to invest in the most premium grade like we have offered to our customers.
Here are the two simple tests you can perform at home to check the purity of saffron:
1. Crushed Ice Test
Take around 100 milligrams of saffron and place it in a shot glass. Then Cover it with about a centimeter of crushed ice and wait for a few minutes.
As the ice melts, real saffron will release a deep red color and a strong, pleasant aroma. If the liquid appears pale or has an oily substance on top, it suggests the presence of impurities or dye.
2. Cold Water Test
Place a few saffron strands in a small dish of cold water. The genuine saffron will gradually release a yellow color, not instantly like an ink blot, but slowly and subtly. The strands will expand slightly, releasing a beautiful sunset yellow color.
Fake saffron will immediately dissolve into an egg-yellow, red, or orange color, which is a sign of artificial dye.
You can escape all the worries about authenticity if you trust Pahadi Amrut as our go-to brand for authentic saffron.
Trust Pahadi Amrut For Purest Saffron
When it comes to saffron, authenticity and quality are paramount. Pahadi Amrut stands as one of the most trusted brands for Himalayan Kesar which offers only the finest quality saffron.
With over 500 satisfied customers and hundreds of units sold in the last six months, we have earned a reputation for delivering pure, unadulterated saffron directly from the pristine regions of Kashmir.
Our selection includes the renowned GI-tag approved Kishtwar Gucchi Kesar and Pampore Kashmir Kesar. Each of these varieties is carefully sourced and tested to ensure maximum potency and flavor.
Whether you're looking to enhance your health or elevate the taste and aroma of your everyday dishes and drinks, Pahadi Amrut provides you with the highest-grade saffron.
Trust us to bring the pure essence of the Himalayas to your kitchen. We ensure that every thread of saffron you use is as authentic as nature intended.
