Fake Saffron-Is Died Red Straw Still a Scam?

Ensie

I was in India once 23 years ago and wanted to buy saffron. When asking about saffron everybody told me to watch out for touts selling "saffron" that was straw died red with a little added aroma. I had to laugh at the test to see if saffron is geniune or not. You put it in your mouth and see if it disolves. Straw won't disolve.

Is fake saffron still a scam to this day?

The hotel told me a great, trusthworthy store (I have no idea which one after all these years) near a market place. The rickshaw ride and local scenery were as much fun as the shopping. At the store I vividly recall getting into a conversation with an elderly lady customer who kindly pointed out and advised which necessities I should buy to make authentic Indian dishes. (Instead of buying all that stuff I should have hired her to cook for me.)

I'm finally going back soon. Can any of you recommend any shop(s) in Delhi selling genuine saffron and quality spices and tea in bulk? (By bulk I mean not packaged, as opposed to buying humungous amounts.)

Any info woudl be appreciated.

SHIMLA

I do not know about Delhi, but there's one shop at Shimla which sells great, genuine saffron. Will you be visiting Shimla?

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KarinaM

When I was just in Delhi my friend took me to an ashram shop near the center of town to buy spices. She told me they were pure and unadulterated unlike some you might get in a normal grocery store. They certainly bowl me over when I open my spice cupboard! Which ashram? hm....don't remember the name, it was in a residential area and had a preschool attached. Maybe someone else knows it? Can't check with her I'm afraid, Her email has redeveloped the 'permanent fatal error' that shows up about once every 2 weeks. Now what's that all about?

volga_volga

a Kashmiri shop near Delhi Tourist office (near Coffee House, CP) sells saffron that looked and was packed exactly the same as I was buying in Kashmir, only at double the price (Rs 100/gr). you may not trust Kashmiri salesmen but if you are buying saffron that is coming not from Kashmir it is NOT genuine saffron

Volga

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SHIMLA

Absolutely right !

Ensie

Thanks for the replies. Shimla, unfortunately I won't be in Shimla this trip. Thanks for the offer.

I still have some time before I leave, maybe I'll find out with more searching. In the meantime I will keep in mind to buy saffron only from Kashimir.