Saffron
Red gold and the world's most precious spice: natural saffron threads with a regal aroma and bright crimson colour. Saffron is full of crocin and crocetin, the glycemic index does not apply, and it gives dishes a distinctive flavour with no meaningful carbohydrate.
Glycemic index
Glycemic load
Calories
Protein
💡 Smart Nutritional Guidance
Consumption advice
Soak a few saffron threads in a cup of rose water or warm water for a quarter of an hour, then add the infusion to rice dishes or tea to enjoy its colour and calming aroma.
Best preparation methods
Gently grind saffron threads with a grain of coarse salt before soaking to release all their colour and flavour, and avoid exposing saffron to hard boiling.
Important Nutritional Note
Saffron is rich in antioxidants associated with a good mood and calm; just a few threads are enough to add its magic flavour and nutrients.
Nutrition facts
| Nutrient | Per 100 g | Per typical portion (1 g) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 310 kcal | 3.1 kcal |
| Protein | 11.4 g | 0.1 g |
| Carbohydrate | 65.4 g | 0.7 g |
| Available carbohydrate | 61.5 g | 0.6 g |
| Fat | 5.9 g | 0.1 g |
| Dietary fibre | 3.9 g | 0 g |
The typical portion is approximate, for comparison purposes.
Comparison & smarter alternatives
It has 310 kcal per 100 g, ranking 8 of 12 in Spices & herbs (lowest first).
Related foods from the same family:
Frequently asked questions
Is Saffron good for weight loss?
It can be included in moderation: it contains 3.9 g of fibre per 100 g, which supports fullness, and a 1 g portion gives 3 kcal.
How does Saffron affect blood sugar?
Saffron contains only 61.5 g of available carbohydrate per 100 g, so the glycemic index does not apply and its direct effect on blood sugar is minimal. The meal’s effect depends on what you eat with it, such as bread, rice or sweetened sauces.
What is the nutritional value of a typical portion of Saffron?
A typical 1 g portion of Saffron provides about 3 kcal, 0.1 g protein, 0.7 g carbohydrate, 0.1 g fat and 0 g fibre.
Reviewed by the WiBo Health medical team · Last reviewed 13 October 2026
Disclaimer: This guidance is for nutritional lifestyle orientation and does not constitute a diagnostic medical device under EU Regulation MDR 2017/745.