Saffron Grades Explained: Super Negin vs. Negin vs. Pushal

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Why Saffron Grades Matter

Not all saffron is created equal. The grade determines its strength, aroma, color intensity, and value. Understanding these differences helps you choose the right saffron for cooking, gifting, or tea.

If you want to learn more about saffron’s origins, meaning, and cultural importance, you can explore our complete article here: a deeper look at saffron’s symbolism and uses .

Super Negin

Super Negin is the highest and most premium grade of saffron available.

  • Long, uniformly deep-red threads
  • No yellow or orange parts
  • Strongest aroma and flavor concentration
  • Bright golden color when bloomed
  • Highest price per gram

This grade is ideal for high-quality cooking, luxury gift boxes, and anyone who wants the most potent saffron experience.

Negin

Negin saffron is still premium but slightly less intense than Super Negin.

  • Threads are shorter but still dark red
  • Minimal yellow at the base
  • Strong aroma and color release
  • Great balance of quality and price

For most home cooks, Negin is perfectly suitable and gives excellent results in rice, tea, desserts, and stews.

Pushal

Pushal has red threads mixed with some yellow or orange parts.

  • More natural-looking threads
  • Milder aroma
  • Less intense coloring strength
  • More affordable than higher grades

Pushal is often used for everyday cooking where strong color is less important, but you still want saffron’s unique aroma.

Lower Grades & Mixed Threads

Some saffron is a blend of broken threads, yellow pieces, or mixed cuts. These lower grades may still be usable but usually offer weaker color and fragrance.

  • Coupe threads – broken pieces, uneven results
  • Mixed saffron – red threads combined with fillers
  • Older saffron – faded aroma and color intensity

While these are cheaper, you may need to use more to achieve similar results.

Which Grade Should You Choose?

Your choice depends on how you plan to use saffron:

  • For gifting or premium dishes: Super Negin
  • For most home recipes: Negin
  • For budget-friendly use: Pushal

Each grade has its purpose, and knowing the differences helps ensure you get the right value for your needs.

Learn More About Saffron

Shop Saffron & Accessories

Interested in trying or gifting saffron? Explore these curated collections:

These selections pair well with high-quality saffron and cultural gifting traditions.

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