Common Adulterations in Saffron

The methods of adulteration in saffron are varied and complex. Here are some of these methods in more detail:

Increasing Weight with Foreign Substances:
Adding Foreign Substances: Some fraudsters add materials like safflower, brick powder, gypsum powder, or even crushed rice to increase the weight of saffron. These materials might not be easily distinguishable at first glance due to their similarity in appearance to saffron.
Moistening Saffron: Saffron is moistened with water or other substances like glycerin to increase its weight. This method is especially common with powdered saffron.
Altering the Appearance of Saffron:
Coloring Saffron: Some adulterators dye saffron with artificial red or orange colors to sell lower quality saffron as high-grade saffron. These colors might be made from unauthorized chemical substances.
Using Threads of Other Plants: Instead of using real saffron, some people use threads of other plants like corn, safflower, or even plastic fibers that resemble saffron after being dyed.
Adulteration in Saffron Powder:
Mixing Saffron Powder with Cheaper Substances: Some fraudsters mix saffron powder with cheaper materials like turmeric powder, beet powder, brick powder, or even gypsum powder to increase the volume of the product.
Deception in Packaging:
Reducing the Actual Weight in Packaging: Some producers provide saffron with a weight less than what is stated on the packaging. This increases the seller’s profit while reducing the product’s quality for the consumer.
Using Packaging Similar to Reputable Brands: Some fraudsters use packaging that looks similar to reputable brands to deceive customers. These packages might include counterfeit logos and marks.
Adding Coloring Agents:
Using Artificial Colors: Some people add artificial colors to saffron to sell lower quality saffron as high-grade saffron. These colors might be made from unauthorized chemical substances and can harm consumer health.
Chemical Methods:
Using Artificial Essences and Fragrances: Some people add artificial essences and fragrances to saffron to mimic the natural aroma of saffron. This can increase the weight and decrease the quality of saffron.
Adding Oils and Fats:
Adding Various Oils and Fats: To increase weight and give a glossy appearance to saffron, some people use different oils and fats. This method also reduces the quality of saffron and increases harm to the consumer.

To avoid purchasing adulterated saffron, it is best to buy saffron from reputable stores and brands and pay attention to standard and quality marks. Additionally, you can buy saffron in thread form and avoid purchasing saffron powder, which is more prone to adulteration.