Saffron, known as the world's most expensive spice, is often subjected to adulteration due to its high price. This adulteration can include the addition of artificial colorants to enhance its appearance or increase its coloring strength. Several scientific methods have been developed to detect these artificial colorants.
UV-Vis spectrometry is a common method used to detect red colorants in saffron extracts. This method can be enhanced by removing naturally occurring colorants (crocins) from the sample through thermal treatment at low pH, increasing its sensitivity. Tristimulus colorimetry can also be used as a screening method to control the authenticity of saffron samples.
Infrared spectroscopy (IR) and Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP OES) can be used to differentiate between different types of saffron and identify harmful elements in artificial saffron. NMR spectroscopy is another spectroscopic technique used to verify the purity of saffron and investigate the presence of additives.
Thin-layer chromatography (TLC) is a method used to determine the presence and type of synthetic colors in saffron products. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) are also used to test saffron samples for adulteration. Erythrosine, an artificial colorant, can be detected using TLC and HPLC, especially when combined with fluorescence detection.
Microscopic analysis can be used to observe the physical characteristics of saffron and identify counterfeit products. DNA barcoding can also identify adulterated saffron samples, even those containing other plant parts. Chemical methods can be used to detect adulteration by treating saffron with colors and chemicals.
Agroota is committed to ensuring the authenticity and quality by obtaining certifications such as ISO 3632 for saffron quality.
By employing these advanced detection methods, Agroota guarantees that its saffron is free from artificial colorants and adulterants. This dedication ensures that consumers receive only the highest quality, pure saffron.
