B2B
About us Lab sheets Contact

The Saffron

A small pinch, a big difference.

How much saffron does a dish need? The amounts below are starting points; with higher colouring strength, less is enough.

Whole saffron threads up close

Dosage

How much to use

Counted in threads. If the colour is pale, add a few threads next time; if it tastes bitter, use fewer.

  • 10–15 threads

    Rice, pilaf, risotto

    For four. With the steeping liquid, towards the end of cooking.

  • 15–20 threads

    Paella

    For one large pan serving four to six.

  • 10–15 threads

    Fish soup, bouillabaisse

    For four, in the last ten minutes.

  • about 20 threads

    Bread and pastry

    Per 500 g of flour, steeped in the warm milk for the dough.

  • 3–5 threads

    Saffron milk or tea

    Per cup. Let it steep for 5–10 minutes before drinking.

  • 8–10 threads

    Ice cream, desserts

    Per half litre of base, steeped in warm milk or cream.

Why coloring strength matters

ISO 3632 gives three numbers: colour (crocin), taste (picrocrocin) and aroma (safranal). Coloring strength matters most: the higher it is, the fewer threads you need for the same colour.

All about saffron

Coloring strength to ISO 3632 (crocin absorbance), category targets: Premium 245–270+, Royal 270–300+. Actual laboratory results may differ depending on where and how the sample is tested (Afghanistan or the EU). Premium and Royal are AMU selections, not official ISO grades; grade I starts at 200. Saffron is a spice; this site makes no health claims.