The Saffron crocus is a member of the Iridaceae family. Saffron is composed of the dried stigmas of Crocus sativus, which contain the fragrance, color and flavor. The flowers need to be picked individually by hand and dried. 1 kilo of dried saffron requires 150,000 flowers, which is equivalent to about 2,000 m2 of saffron plants. This labor-intensive process makes saffron the most expensive spice on earth, also known as ‘red gold’. A kilo of saffron costs, depending on the quality, 3,000-14,000 Euros.

• Iran is world’s largest saffron producer with a 90% market share.
• The ingredient crocine provides it beautiful golden yellow colour of saffron.
• Saffron is the most expensive spice in the world. As such, it is often sold by the gram or even the milligram.