8022-19-3

Basic information

• Product Name: SAFFRON
• Synonyms: oils,crocussativus;Oils,saffron;saffronoil;SAFRAN DU GATINAIS;SAFFRON;SAFFRON ALCOHOLIC SOLUTION;SAFFRON ''GATINAIS'';SAFFRON, GATINAIS
• CAS NO: 8022-19-3
• Molecular Formula: C20H24O4
• Molecular Weight: 328.4
• EINECS: 255-881-6
• Product Categories: S;Stains and Dyes;Stains&Dyes, A to
• Mol File: 8022-19-3.mol
• Article Data: 0

Chemical Properties

• Appearance: /
• CAS DataBase Reference: SAFFRON(CAS DataBase Reference)
• NIST Chemistry Reference: SAFFRON(8022-19-3)
• EPA Substance Registry System: SAFFRON(8022-19-3)

Safety Data

• WGK Germany: 3
• RTECS: HL7380000
• Hazardous Substances Data: 8022-19-3(Hazardous Substances Data)

Usage

Description

Saffron, derived from the dried stigmas of the fall-flowering Crocus sativus L., is a highly valued spice known for its intense yellow color and powerful, somewhat bitter aroma. Native to Asia Minor and southern Europe, this herbaceous plant features bulbous roots, an erect white thin scape, and three red-orange stigmas. The mature stigmas are collected during a short blooming season to produce the spice, which possesses a sweet, spicy, floral odor with a fatty, herbaceous undertone and a slightly bitter taste.

Uses

Used in Culinary Industry:
Saffron is used as a flavoring and coloring agent for various dishes, including breads, fish, chicken, sauces, and rice dishes. Its unique aroma and color add a distinct taste and appearance to the food, making it a popular choice for enhancing the culinary experience.
Used in Aromatherapy:
Saffron's sweet, spicy, and floral odor with a fatty, herbaceous undertone can be utilized in aromatherapy for its potential mood-enhancing and relaxing properties.
Used as a Natural Colorant:
For coloring purposes, true saffron is used as a natural alternative to synthetic food dyes, providing a vibrant yellow hue to various food products.
Used in Traditional Medicine:
Saffron has been traditionally used in medicine for its potential health benefits, such as its antioxidant properties and potential to improve mood and cognitive function.

Composition

The dried stigmas contain picrocrocin, crocin, vitamins B and B2 and a small amount of essential oil (ca 0.30%) that is either solvent-extracted or sometimes steam-distilled for specific uses only. Crocin is a mixture of glycosides. The presence of 2,2,6-trimethyl-4,6 cyclohexidienal causes the characteristic spicy, warm odor of the dried product and tinctures; crocin yields the characteristic, bright orange-yellow color.