Get app
ProductsCompareTop productsMeal plansDiets

Saffron — Nutrients, Health Benefits, And Shopping Tips

Saffron photo

Listonic Team

September 6, 2024

Among the world's most expensive spices, saffron adds a unique flavor and color to dishes. Learn how to select high-quality saffron, understand its health benefits, and find out the best ways to store it to preserve its potency.

Saffron nutrients

Check the detailed nutritional values of saffron, including information such as calories, fats, carbohydrates, and proteins per 100 grams of the product.

Nutrition facts

Amount per 100 g

Calories

🔥 310 kcal

Nutrients per: 100 g% Daily Value*
Carbs65 g23.64%
Fiber4 g14.29%
Sugars0 g-
Glycemic Index0 -
Protein11 g22%
Sodium148 mg6.43%
Total Fat6 7.69%

*The % of Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Among other things, here's what makes saffron stand out:

11 g

🧀 Good Protein Content

Saffron facts & tips

😋
Saffron is derived from the crocus flower's stigmas and is prized for its unique flavor and color. It's one of the world's most expensive spices by weight.
📦
To preserve its potency and flavor, store saffron in an airtight container in a cool, dark location. It can last for 2-3 years, but for optimal flavor, it's best to use it within 1-2 years.

Health benefits

Learn how saffron, a spice with a distinctive taste, can elevate the flavor of your dishes while offering potential health advantages.
  • Rich in antioxidants such as crocin and safranal, which help protect the body from free radicals and reduce inflammation.
  • May improve mood and alleviate symptoms of depression due to its bioactive compounds.
  • Supports digestive health and may help reduce appetite and promote weight loss.
  • Contains essential vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin C, manganese, and iron, which support overall health and well-being.

Health risks

Be mindful of the concerns related to saffron.
  • Potential for allergic reactions in some individuals, particularly those allergic to saffron or related plants, causing symptoms like itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
  • Potential for toxicity when consumed in large quantities, as excessive saffron intake can cause symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, or even more severe health issues.
  • Risk of contamination with adulterants or pesticides if saffron is not sourced from reputable suppliers.
  • Potential for digestive discomfort such as stomach upset or diarrhea when consumed in large quantities.
shopping liststars

Get the top-rated shopping list app on your phone!

How to choose saffron

Saffron threads should be vibrant red with a slight orange tinge, indicating their quality and potency. The threads should be dry and brittle to the touch, releasing a pungent, honey-like aroma when warmed between fingers.

Avoid saffron that is yellowish or has a faded color, as this indicates it may be adulterated or of lower quality. Saffron that is powdery or smells musty should also be avoided, as these conditions suggest it has been improperly stored or is past its prime.

How to choose saffron

How to store saffron

Saffron should be kept in a sealed container in a cool, dark environment. Storing it in the pantry can help maintain its subtle flavor and fragrance for up to 2-3 years. Proper storage is essential to ensure saffron retains its strength.

Light and air exposure can diminish saffron's effectiveness. Refrain from using transparent containers or placing it near heat sources, as this may compromise its quality. Always make sure the container is securely closed to preserve its freshness and potency.

✅ Extra Tip

Wrap saffron threads in aluminum foil before storing them in the container to block out light.

How long does it last?

Saffron can last for 2-3 years when stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. For the best flavor, use it within 1-2 years.

What to do with leftovers?

Leftover saffron can be used in a variety of culinary and non-culinary ways. In the kitchen, saffron adds a luxurious, golden hue and a unique, aromatic flavor to dishes like risottos, paellas, soups, and baked goods. It’s often steeped in warm liquid before being added to dishes to fully release its color and flavor.

Beyond cooking, saffron has several traditional uses. It can be used in DIY beauty treatments, such as mixing it with milk or honey to create a brightening face mask that helps to even out skin tone. Saffron can also be used in homemade remedies, such as steeping it in tea to help relieve stress and improve mood. Additionally, saffron can be used to create natural dyes for fabrics or crafts, giving them a vibrant yellow color. Some people also use saffron in homemade perfumes or potpourri for its delicate, floral fragrance.

👨‍⚕️️ Medical disclaimer

The content on this website is for informational purposes only. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

Access 1000+ products in the app

How saffron supports specific health conditions

Saffron is a delicate spice known for its rich color and aroma, rich in antioxidants, supporting immune health by protecting cells from oxidative damage. It may help improve mental health by reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression. Saffron also has anti-inflammatory properties that support heart health by improving circulation. Although expensive, small amounts add a distinctive flavor and color to dishes while providing health benefits.

Discover products from other categories