Why is Saffron So Expensive?
90% of the world’s saffron is grown in Iran. Saffron is also grown in places such as Spain, Afghanistan, India, and Morocco. Many international dishes feature saffron, such as the Persian saffron rice, the Spanish, paella, and Italian risotto. But why is saffron so expensive?
Saffron is a highly desired spice because of its distinct flavor, color, aroma, medicinal properties, and high price. High-quality saffron can cost $5,000 per pound, making it more expensive than gold by weight.
The high price of saffron is due partially to the growing and harvesting process. Saffron comes from the Crocus sativus flower. The flower requires specific conditions for growth and blooms for only one week during the year. The saffron spice derives from the stigmas of the Crocus sativus flower. There are three stigmas in each flower. So, 75,000 saffron flowers would yield about one pound of the spice.
Because the saffron bloom and stigmas are so delicate, each stigma must undergo the costly process of being hand-picked, sorted, and dried manually. As we mentioned in our post about the different types of saffron, all-red saffron is more expensive. Additionally, sorting the saffron and removing the yellow and white portions of the stigmas contributes to the high price of saffron. As a result, Negin, Sargol, and Super-Negin saffron are the most expensive types available.
Saffron has many reported health benefits as well. Research shows that saffron can have mood-boosting properties, aid in weight loss, and reduce PMS symptoms. Ancient Persians and Indians have long used saffron for everything from food coloring or as a cold remedy in milk.
When purchasing saffron, it’s essential to buy from a reputable source. Because of its high value, some sellers may add other spices such as paprika or turmeric to increase volume. Make sure to have a look at our products page to find the right saffron for your needs. At Zarlux Saffron we will always work to provide you with transparent insights into our harvesting and production process always to bring you safe and high-quality products.