For more information: How can you tell if saffron is pure? — FoodNutra

A good rule of thumb is that the less packaging and fresher the saffron is, the better.

A good rule of thumb is that the less packaging and fresher the saffron is, the better. The fresher it is, the more vivid its color will be. If you’re buying it in bulk at a store or online, check out how long ago it was packaged by looking at its expiration date on its label.

In general, when shopping for any kind of spice (like cinnamon or turmeric), aim for smaller amounts with fewer ingredients listed on their packaging–you’ll know that item has been kept fresh and hasn’t been sitting around too long before being sold off to customers like yourself!

Look for bright red or orange stigmas.

Look for bright red or orange stigmas. Saffron is a bright red or orange color, so if your saffron looks dull, faded or brown in color it is not pure.

Check the dryness of your saffron. Pure saffron should be dry and brittle, not wet and sticky (this can be an indication that it has been artificially dyed).

Avoid saffron that has a strong smell: If your sample smells like hay or grass then this could mean that it has been artificially flavored with turmeric powder by unscrupulous sellers trying to pass off their product as genuine saffron

Avoid packaged saffrons that are broken, shriveled and missing their stigmas.

The stigmas of the saffron crocus can be removed from the flower and dried to make what we know as saffron. Saffron has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties, as well as its flavor and color. But how do you know if your saffron is pure?

If your packaged saffron looks broken or shriveled, it may be fake. If the stigmas (the red parts) are missing, then it’s likely not real either! If the packaging doesn’t look fresh or new–or if there is any discoloration in any part of your package–then consider buying elsewhere next time!

Examine the bottom of the container.

You can also look at the bottom of the container. If it’s made of plastic, your saffron is probably fake. If it’s made of metal, it’s probably real.