How to Test
In a market where fakes made from dyed safflower, corn silk, or coconut fiber are surprisingly common, knowing how to spot the real kesar protects your health and your investment. You can perform these simple checks to identify genuine saffron.
01
Appearance
- Long, thick, trumpet-shaped crimson-red stigmas.
- Minimal or no yellow or white portions.
- Each strand has a naturally irregular shape; perfectly identical threads may indicate imitation.
02
Water Test
- Place a few strands in warm water or milk.
- Pure saffron releases a golden-yellow colour gradually over several minutes.
- The strands remain red after soaking and do not turn white.
03
Aroma Test
- Genuine saffron has a distinctive aroma with floral, honey-like, and earthy notes.
- It should never smell artificial, overly sweet, or like perfume.
04
Taste Test
- Pure saffron has a slightly bitter taste.
- It is never sweet.
05
Rub Test
- Rub a soaked strand gently between your fingers.
- It produces a yellow to orange stain rather than a bright red colour.
06
Flame Test
- When exposed briefly to a flame, genuine saffron does not melt like plastic.
- It releases a natural, hay-like aroma rather than a chemical smell.
Caution — Take care when performing this test to avoid burns or fire hazards.
07
Colour Release
- Genuine Kashmiri Mongra Kesar releases its colour slowly, not instantly.
- If the water becomes deep red immediately, it may indicate added dyes or colouring.