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ZAFFRON, THE MOST EXPENSIVE SPICE
How much does saffron cost?
The price of saffron varies between 5 and 6 € gram. One gram of saffron contains between 60 and 90 strands, depending on size or quality.
If you buy large quantities, you can find it for 4 – € 4.5 gram.
Saffron with designation of origin may have a higher price. Designation of origin can be distinguished by the seal of origin and because this is generally indicated in the package. In these cases, the price of saffron can be 8 € a gram.
If you find lower prices, it may be due to adulteration of this aromatic spice.
* More information: adulterated saffron
Saffron jar
Why is saffron so expensive?
The main reason for the high cost of saffron is the traditional method of production.
- The cultivation of saffron is difficult to do by machine, and both, picking flowers or separating the stigmas of each flower must be performed by hand. In most cultures, saffron seeding is also done manually.
- Saffron production is low. To obtain 1kg. stigmas of saffron (spice), between 70,000 and 150,000 flowers are required, equivalent to 75kg. of fresh flowers.
- The spice subsequent drying is also slow and traditional methods are also used to retain its aroma and properties.
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