Does saffron go off?

[Poppy]

I've got some in the cupboard which I mujst have had for well over a year. It could actually be nearer 3 years. Am I right in thinking I can't use it? I'm cooking a spanish pork stew (from delia online) and evidently need saffron. Doubt there's anywhere I could get some from tonight.

[nickmo]

Saffron powder will go off after about 12 months, but the thread or whole saffron should keep ok.

See: http://www.saffronspecialist.co.uk/BuyersGuide/saffron.htm for some background info.

[Poppy]

Thanks nickmo-it's the strands so I can use it-hooray! Bet it'll go back into the cupboard for another year or two after this evening. cheers.

[WendyS]

We have some saffron threads in a glass jar which we bought back from Portugal 3 years ago and they are still fine.

If you're using it for the yellow colour you want for your rice, a tiny pinch of turmeric in the rice water will turn it yellow. But only use a maximum of half a coffee spoon ful, otherwise the rice will turn bright orange However, this will fade as soon as you rinse the rice under hot water.