Saffron, also popularly known as "red gold," is the earth's most expensive and delicate spice. With its unique flavor, aroma, and radiant hue, saffron is used as a cherished spice in different foods, traditional medicines, and cosmetics.
Saffron must be appropriately stored due to its delicate state to maintain its quality, potency, and freshness. If not preserved well, it will lose its beneficial properties for culinary and medical purposes.
In this guide, we will discuss the best methods of preserving saffron, the factors influencing how long it will last, and the most frequent mistakes to avoid.
Why Proper Saffron Storage Matters?
Saffron filaments are highly light-sensitive, water-sensitive, temperature-sensitive, and air-sensitive. Saffron will spoil if not properly stored, losing its vibrant color, pungent aroma, and distinctive flavor. Proper storage techniques are therefore essential to maintain its quality for a long time.
Best Ways to Store Saffron
1. Store in an Airtight Container
The most crucial element of saffron storage is the selection of a suitable container. An appropriately cleaned, sealable glass or ceramic container is the best place to keep saffron. Airtight glass containers are optimal because they neither absorb essences nor let air circulate, so the spice remains fresh.
2. Keep it in a dry, cool location.
Saffron must be stored in a dry & cool environment, away from light and moisture. Ideal locations for storing saffron are kitchen cabinets, pantry, or drawers, not in front of stoves or ovens. Heat and humidity would decrease the quality of saffron and reduce saffron's shelf life significantly.
3. Don't store saffron in the fridge.
Most individuals believe that storing saffron in the fridge will keep it longer, but it is a fundamental mistake. By storing saffron in the refrigerator, humidity and condensation may wet the threads. Wetting saffron can further make grinding more difficult and diminish its potency.
If you reside in a hot and humid climate, saffron can be refrigerated. But keep it tightly covered in an airtight container, further covering it with aluminum foil so that water will not penetrate.
4. Store Saffron in a Dark, Dry Place
Light and air will spoil saffron rapidly. Sunlight or light from an electrical source may spoil saffron's valuable oils, which may provide its scent and strength. Store saffron in a dark-colored glass jar or wrap the jar with aluminum foil to exclude light.
Also, close the lid tightly after every use to minimize air exposure, which can lead to oxidation, flavor, and aroma loss.
5. Maintain the Correct Temperature and Humidity
Saffron must be stored at a steady temperature of 15°C to 20°C (59°F-68°F). The relative humidity must be around 40% to prevent saffron from becoming too wet. If you reside in a humid region, put a packet of silica gel in the storage compartment to regulate the moisture level.
6. Utilize Smaller Containers for Regular Use
Whenever you open the saffron container, you're introducing air and water, which may damage it over a long period. To minimize exposure, divide your saffron into small units and store them separately. This way, you can use a single small container in cooking for one day while closing the others to keep them sealed.
7. Aluminum Foil Wrap as Additional Protection
Cover the container with aluminum foil before you put it away to keep your saffron safe from light and moisture. This simple measure provides an added layer of protection against those things that would damage the spice.
How Long Can Saffron Be Used?
If properly stored, saffron can last over three years and maintain its aroma, flavor, and potency. Nevertheless, for the best results, it is recommended that you use saffron within two years. The spice loses its potency over time, so using it when fresh guarantees you the best flavor and color.
Avoid Common Errors in Saffron Preservation
- Using metal or plastic containers – These metals can react chemically with saffron, changing flavor and strength.
- Leaving the Container Open – Ongoing exposure to air causes oxidation, reducing the potency of the spice.
- Storage Near Strong Odors – Saffron absorbs odors very quickly, so keep it away from strong spices or foods.
- Storing it in a Paper Pouch – Paper packets allow air and moisture to penetrate them, spoiling their content sooner.
- Exposure to High Temperatures – Heat speeds up the deterioration of the active ingredients of saffron, lowering the quality.
The Bottom Line
Properly storing saffron is crucial to preserve its potency, aroma, and color as long as possible. You can preserve this spice for a long time by keeping it in tight-fitting glass jars, storing it away from moisture and sunlight, and maintaining it in a consistent environment. Do not make the silly mistake of refrigerating saffron or leaving it open to the air.
If you apply these best practices, you will enjoy all the benefits of saffron in your cooking, beauty, and medication for a long time!
