E164 · Colours
Saffron
A premium, completely safe natural spice and colorant.
- Category
- Colours
- Vegan
- Yes
- Vegetarian
- Yes
What it is
A natural yellow-orange dye and spice derived from the stigma of the Crocus sativus flower.
How it is used in food
Provides a deep, rich yellow-orange colour and a distinctive earthy flavour.
Commonly found in- Rice dishes
- Desserts
- Premium foods
Health and safety
No known risks; widely consumed globally as a spice.
Recognised as safe for use as both a flavouring and colouring agent.
Regulatory status
| Region | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Australia & New Zealand FSANZ |
Permitted | Permitted under the FSANZ Food Standards Code. |
| European Union EFSA / European Commission |
Not approved | Not on the EU authorised list of food additives (Annex II). |
| United States FDA (Food and Drug Administration) |
Permitted | Authorised for food use by the FDA (often GRAS for standard additives). |
Identification on labels
- E-number
- E164
Worth knowing
Derived from the stigmas of the Crocus sativus flower, it is one of the most expensive spices in the world.
Conclusion
A premium, completely safe natural spice and colorant.
Is it in what you are buying?
ScanWise reads the barcode and tells you which additives a product actually contains, and what they do to its score.
Open the appEntry last reviewed 2026-07-28.
← All additives