Safranal dosage

What is safranal?

Safranal main aromatic compound of saffron (Crocus sativus). It is responsible for its warm, slightly sweet aroma, characteristic of saffron products.

This compound results from the degradation of picrocrocin during the drying of saffron, and its content constitutes an indicator of the quality, authenticity and freshness of the product.

Why dose safranal?

The dosage of safranal allows:

• Evaluate the organoleptic quality of a batch of saffron
• Determine compliance with ISO 3632 standards for premium saffron
• Validate the content of aromatic compounds in extracts or powders
• Control the aromatic intensity of saffron-based formulations (capsules, drinks, seasonings, flavorings)
• Detect possible falsifications or losses of aromatic activity linked to storage or processing

This is a key parameter in sensory evaluation, but also in a quality and commercial development approach.

Analysis methods

YesWeLab offers several validated methods for quantifying safranal depending on the matrix analyzed and the desired precision:

• Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS): a reference technique for specific identification of safranal at trace levels
• HPLC (high performance liquid chromatography): allows quantitative determination in fluid or concentrated extracts
• UV-Visible spectrophotometry: rapid method suitable for routine quality controls, particularly according to ISO 3632 standard

The analysis is carried out on solid or liquid samples, after extraction in a suitable solvent.

Affected matrices

• Dried saffron threads
• Hydroalcoholic or glycerin extracts
• Saffron-based powders or capsules
• Flavored food products
• Functional drinks
• Nutraceutical supplements enriched with saffron

The method is suitable for measuring safranal concentration in mg/g or % m/m depending on the analysis requirements.

Quality and regulatory context

Safranal content is a normative criterion in ISO 3632, which classifies saffron into 3 quality categories (I, II, III). This standard is regularly required in international markets or by industrial buyers.

Additionally, the dosage is used for:

• Guarantee the authenticity of the finished product
• Document quality in technical data sheets and certificates of analysis
• Supporting the aromatic or wellness claims of nutraceutical formulations
• Control aromatic stability during shelf life

Why entrust your analyses to YesWeLab?

At YesWeLab , we connect you to the best expert laboratories in plant analyses, with validated methods and specific expertise in saffron.

Our service includes:

• Analysis by GC-MS, HPLC or UV-Vis according to your needs
• Choosing the laboratory best suited to your matrix
• Fast rendering times and interpretable results
• Personalized support from our scientific team
• Simplified management via our digital platform

Need to measure safranal in your saffron products?

Add this analysis to your quote or contact our team to discuss your quality objectives.