Saffron Powder: A Rapidly Growing Market Worldwide #SaffronPowder, known for its unique properties and versatile applications, is experiencing significant growth in the global market. From the culinary world to #cosmetics (#cosméticos) and #pharmaceuticals (#farmacéuticos), the demand for this exquisite spice is expanding rapidly. Its superior quality, captivating aroma, vibrant color, and remarkable #healthbenefits (#beneficiosdesalud) make saffron powder a top choice for consumers across the globe.  

Decline in #Saffron Production and Its Impact on the #GlobalMarketIn recent years, saffron production in #Iran, one of the world’s largest producers of this valuable spice, has seen a significant decline. In 2024, production dropped by over 60% due to #ClimateChange, severe frost, and reduced rainfall. This sharp decrease in supply has directly led to a rise in saffron prices in global markets.

Saffron extract, particularly high-purity crocin, has garnered significant attention for its versatile applications across various industries. This article delves into the benefits and uses of saffron extract in the cosmetic, food, and pharmaceutical sectors.    

In recent decades, Crocin, the active compound in saffron, has garnered significant attention, solidifying its pivotal role in various industries. Here's a snapshot of its emergence and influence:

Safranal, the main component of Crocus sativus essential oil, is thought to be the main cause of saffron unique odor. It is now about eighty years that this compound has been discovered and since then different scientific experiments have been done investigating its biological-pharmacological activities. Safranal effects in CNS have been more attractive to scientists and an escalating number of papers have been published regarding its neuropsychological effects. These promising properties of safranal propose its presence as a therapeutic agent in future, although there is a great need for further clinical trials and toxicological studies. In this review article, according to Scopus ®, Thomson Reuters Web of Knowledge®, Scientific Information Database (SID) ® and Pubmed ® all papers published until July 2012 were thoroughly discussed and a brief note of each study was prepared.  

Saffron is a valued herb, obtained from the stigmas of the C. sativus Linn (Iridaceae), with therapeutic effects. It has been described in pharmacopoeias to be variously acting, including as an anti-depressant, anti-carcinogen, and stimulant agent. The therapeutic effects of saffron are harbored in its bioactive molecules, notably crocins, the subject of this paper. Crocins have been demonstrated to act as a monoamine oxidase type A and B inhibitor. Furthermore, saffron petal extracts have experimentally been shown to impact contractile response in electrical field stimulation. Other research suggests that saffron also inhibits the reuptake of monoamines, exhibits N-methyl-d-aspartate antagonism, and improves brain-derived neurotrophic factor signaling. A host of experimental studies found saffron/crocin to be similarly effective as fluoxetine and imipramine in the treatment of depression disorders. Saffron and crocins propose a natural solution to combat depressive disorders. However, some hurdles, such as stability and delivery, need to be overcome.      

Saffron may have antioxidant and anticancer benefits. But some people should avoid high doses. Saffron is the most expensive spice in the world — with 1 pound (450 grams) costing between $500 and $5,000. The reason for its high price is its labor-intensive harvesting method, which makes its production costly. Saffron is harvested by hand from the Crocus sativus flower, commonly known as the saffron crocus. The term “saffron” applies to the flower’s thread-like structures called stigma.    

Saffron is known as the world's most expensive spice because of the labor intensive process to cultivate just a single ounce. But a little goes a long way. Once used to make medicines and dye cloth a dark yellow, this pungent and aromatic spice flavors drinks as well as foods like paella and risotto. Here, we're highlighting our favorite saffron recipes, including Rosewater and Saffron Ice Cream, Cioppino with Fennel and Saffron, and Squid Pizza with Saffron Aioli.  

With its gorgeous color and distinct flavor, this ancient spice is worth the price tag. You may have seen saffron included on a list of ingredients and wondered, "What is saffron, and why is it so expensive?" when you pick it up at the grocery store. Saffron is often referred to as "red gold," for good reason—it's the world's most expensive spice, retailing for anywhere from $10 to $20 for a gram of the real stuff. It has a subtly sweet, hard-to-pin-down flavor and is a natural food dye. It's the key to unlocking the brilliant golden color of classic dishes such as bouillabaisse, risotto alla Milanese, and Spanish paella.