Iranian Saffron

Iranian saffron, the red gold of nature, is one of Iran’s most precious and valuable agricultural products, recognized as the highest quality saffron in the world. This authentic product, cultivated in arid and semi-arid regions of Iran such as Razavi and South Khorasan, holds a special place in global markets due to its unique compounds like “crocin” (coloring agent), “safranal” (unique aroma), and “picrocrocin” (bitter taste and medicinal properties). Iranian saffron is offered in various types, including Super Negin (the largest and highest quality type), Sargol (red stigmas without style), Pushal (a combination of stigma and a small part of the style), and Dasteh (saffron with a long style).

The superior quality of Iranian saffron stems from unique climatic conditions, fertile soil, and the traditional knowledge of farmers. This has led to Iranian saffron having a significant advantage in aroma, coloring power, and purity compared to foreign samples like Spanish or Afghan saffron. Laboratory tests show that the “crocin” content in Iranian saffron is up to 260 units, while this number rarely exceeds 200 units in saffron from other countries. This characteristic makes Iranian saffron an ideal choice for the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries.

Iran Store, by offering saffron in standard packaging (vacuum tins, light-proof sachets, and hermetic boxes) and obtaining international certifications such as ISO, HACCP, and HALAL, has made it possible to export this product to over 50 countries worldwide. By purchasing saffron from Iran Store, importers not only benefit from competitive prices (between $1200 and $1500 per kilogram depending on type and quality) but also receive expert consultation to select the best type of saffron tailored to their target market.

Iranian Saffron: The Red Gold of Iranian Exports

Saffron, this pure spice known as “red gold,” has solidified its place in global culture, economy, and health for centuries. Iran, producing over 90% of the world’s saffron, is the largest exporter of this product. In this article, we will examine the unique characteristics of Iranian saffron, its target export markets, and its competitive advantages.

Types of Iranian Saffron and Their Applications

Iranian saffron is produced in four main grades:

• Super Negin: The largest and highest quality type of saffron, primarily used for export to European and American countries.
• Sargol: Red stigmas without any style, used for food industries and spice production.
• Pushal: A combination of stigma and short style, used in daily cooking and saffron tea production.
• Dasteh: Saffron with a long style, mostly suitable for decorative purposes and gifts.

Each of these types is chosen based on the preferences of the target market. For example, Gulf countries like the UAE and Oman usually prefer Dasteh saffron, while the Chinese and Russian markets are more interested in Sargol saffron for use in processing industries.

Superiority of Iranian Saffron Over Global Competitors

The most important reason for the superiority of Iranian saffron is its bioactive compounds:

• Exceptional Coloring Power: The crocin content (coloring agent) in Iranian saffron is between 220 and 260 units, whereas this number reaches only 180 units in Spanish saffron and 160 units in Afghan saffron.
• Unique Aroma: Safranal content in Iranian saffron is up to 70% higher than foreign samples.
• High Purity: Iranian saffron is free from chemical additives and pesticides and consistently receives an “A” rating in heavy metal testing.

Target Export Markets for Iranian Saffron

• United Arab Emirates: As a commercial hub in the Middle East, the UAE is the largest importer of Iranian saffron for re-export to Africa and Europe. Iran’s saffron share in the Dubai market is over 65%.
• China: Increasing demand for saffron in China’s pharmaceutical and food industries has led to a 35% growth in saffron exports to this country in the last 5 years.
• Turkey: Turkey imports saffron for the production of cosmetic products and food supplements.
• Russia: The markets of Moscow and Saint Petersburg have high demand for Sargol saffron due to its extensive use in confectionery.
• Iraq and Afghanistan: Due to cultural proximity, these countries purchase Iranian saffron in small packages (1 to 5 grams).

Export Prices of Saffron

The price of Iranian saffron varies depending on its type and quality:

• Super Negin: $1400 to $1500 per kilogram
• Sargol: $1200 to $1300 per kilogram
• Pushal: $1000 to $1100 per kilogram
• Dasteh: $900 to $1000 per kilogram

These prices include standard packaging, health certificates, and delivery to the destination port.

Why Importers Choose Iran Store?

• Quality Assurance: All saffron shipments are tested in reputable laboratories before dispatch.
• Variety in Packaging: From 1-gram packages to 10-kilogram cartons, suitable for market needs.
• Free Consultation: Iran Store experts help you choose the best type of saffron for your target market.
• Fast Delivery: Shipments via air and land to over 20 countries worldwide in less than 7 working days.

If you, as an importer, are looking to achieve higher profits by selling Iranian saffron in your market, contact Iran Store today or fill out the price inquiry form. Our experts are ready to offer the best commercial proposal, tailored to your purchase volume and destination country. With Iran Store, register Iran’s red gold under your brand name in the global market!