FAQs
What is saffron?
Saffron is the world’s most expensive spice by weight. It is derived from the flower of Crocus Sativus, commonly known as the "Saffron Crocus". The vivid crimson red threads are hand picked and dried for use mainly as seasoning and colouring in food or drinks, but also have many health benefits.
I’m confused with all of the different qualities of saffron. What are they and what do they mean?
The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) outlines a grading for saffron. The ISO is an independent, non-governmental international organization with a membership of 165 national standards bodies. ISO 3632 is the specific standard for saffron which recommends 4 grades based upon several qualities of saffron. The most significant qualities which are tested are; colour (Crocine), aroma (Safranal) and flavour (Picocrocine), however the colouring power (Crocine) is the main indicator as the other chemicals are in proportion to this.
Spanish saffron is graded under a slightly different scale although in line with the ISO 3632 standard.
The table below summarises the different grades of saffron:
| ISO 3632 Standard | Spanish Saffron Standard |
| Grade I: > 190 | Coupe: > 190 |
| Grade II: > 150 | La Mancha: 180 - 190 |
| Grade III: > 110 | Rio: 150 - 180 |
| Grade IV: < 110 | Standard: 110 - 150 |
| Sierra: < 110 |
Each batch of Saffronly’s saffron is tested prior to packing and we are proud to confirm our Spanish Saffron is Coupe which is equivalent to Grade 1.
How do I know if my saffron is real?
As the saffron connoisseurs, we have put together a handy Saffron Quality Check guide for you to check the quality of your saffron.
Will you be able to provide a certificate which shows the quality of Saffronly's saffron?
Yes, of course. Please kindly Contact Us for a copy of the certificate.
Why is your saffron more expensive than other places?
The saffron we will provide you is high quality (Grade 1/Category 1) saffron; a much stronger aroma and higher intensity of flavouring means you will require less strands of saffron to use in your recipes. Therefore, the saffron you purchase from Saffronly will last longer for you to enjoy.
Help! How do I use saffron?
It can be used in a variety of sweet or savoury dishes or drinks. To draw out the unique flavour of saffron you should soak the threads in hot water - not boiling before adding it in to your dish or drink. As saffron is similar to a dried herb tossing a couple of threads into a salad or a tray of roasted veggies won’t allow you to experience the flavour of saffron. For some inspiration please see our Recipes page for some ideas or Contact Us.
Do you supply saffron powder?
We do not supply saffron powder as it is more prone to adulteration, with turmeric, paprika, and other powders used as diluting fillers. If you would like saffron powder, we advise you to lightly roast the saffron threads, wait until cool and then grind them using a small mortar and pestle.
Can I recycle your packaging?
Yes, at Saffronly we are environmentally conscious and have ensured our packaging is recyclable so just pop the packaging in with your usual recycling.
When will I receive my order?
Details of our delivery time frame can be found on our Delivery and Returns Policy page.
Where can I find the nutritional values for saffron?
Please find the nutritional values here.
I have another question, can you help me?
Absolutely, please Contact Us, our team are eager to help!