Saffron Ingredients

What are the nutritional facts about Saffron?

It is a known fact that saffron is highly sought after because of its nutritional value and health benefits. However, one cannot help but wonder what nutritional components make saffron so useful?

Saffron comprises three major components;

• The Crocin- This is responsible for the yellow pigmentation
• The Picrocrocin- This is responsible for the saffron’s bitter-sweet flavor 
• The Safranal- This gives the spice it’s earthy fragrance

These components contain antioxidant properties which are being studied for use on drugs that can fight depression and cancer.

According to the USDA National Nutrient Database, 100g in the total weight of saffron contains nutrients’ shown in the table below:

Nutrients Nutrient Amount Percentage of RDA (%)
Energy 310 kcal 15.5
Carbohydrates 65.37g 50
Protein 11.43g 21
Total Fat 5.85g 29
Cholesterol 0g 0
Dietary fiber 3.9g 10
Vitamins
Pyridoxine 1.010mg 77
Foliates 93mcg 23
Niacin 1.46mg 9
Thiamine 0.115mg 10
Riboflavin 0.267 20
Vitamin C 80.8mg 90
Vitamin A 530iu 18
Electrolytes
Sodium 148mg 10
Potassium 1724mg 37
Minerals
Copper 0.328mg 37
Iron 11.10mg 139
Manganese 28.408mg 1235
Calcium 111mg 11
Magnesium 264mg 66
Selenium 5.6mcg 10
Zinc 1.09mg 10
Phosphorous 252mg 36