Quality · ISO 3632
Saffron quality, measured to ISO 3632
Every saffron lot we offer is tested to ISO 3632 before sale. The certificate of analysis for your lot comes with the quote, and the lot number is printed on every pack.
What the numbers on a saffron certificate mean
ISO 3632 measures saffron by spectrophotometry. These are the values your QC team will check first.
| Parameter | What it tells you | ISO 3632 Category I |
|---|---|---|
| Crocin (440 nm) | Colouring strength: how much colour the saffron gives | min 200 |
| Picrocrocin (257 nm) | Bitterness, the typical taste of saffron | min 70 |
| Safranal (330 nm) | Aroma | 20 to 50 |
| Moisture and volatile matter | Affects net weight, shelf life and storage | max 12% (threads) |
| Floral waste | Yellow style and other parts of the flower | max 0.5% |
| Foreign matter | Anything that is not saffron | max 0.1% |
Absorbance values are for a 1% aqueous extract on a dry basis, measured by ISO 3632-2. Category limits from ISO 3632-1.
From field to lot
Sourcing in Khorasan
Saffron is bought from growing areas in Khorasan after the autumn harvest.
Sorting in Mashhad
Threads are dried, cleaned and sorted by grade.
Lab testing
Each lot is tested to ISO 3632 before we offer it.
Packing
Every pack carries the lot number that links it to its report.
Documents
The certificate of analysis travels with the shipment.
Documents with every shipment
- Certificate of origin
- Phytosanitary certificate (saffron, barberry)
- Export health certificate
- ISO 3632 certificate of analysis (saffron)
- Commercial invoice and packing list
Available on request
- Sample of an offered lot for testing in your own laboratory
- Copies of company certificates with the proforma invoice
- Photos of the actual lot before dispatch
Quality FAQ
Where do I find the lot number?
On every pack and on the certificate of analysis for that lot.
Who tests the saffron?
The laboratory and its accreditation are named on each certificate.
Can my own lab test it before I order?
Yes. Ask for a sample of the lot you are offered and test it wherever you choose.
Ask for a lot and its report
Send the grade and volume you need. We reply with an offered lot and its ISO 3632 certificate.