Saffron

Buy saffron: the extract of the world's most expensive spice

Saffron is a spice obtained from the stigmas of the saffron crocus (Crocus sativus). The spice is known as the most expensive in the world because the harvest is done entirely by hand and enormous numbers of flowers are needed for a small amount of saffron. In addition to culinary use, saffron is also processed into standardized extracts for dietary supplements, of which Affron is a well-known example. In our assortment, you will find saffron as an extract in capsules, loose, and in combination products, in various dosages.

What is saffron?

Saffron consists of the dried stigmas (the red threads) of the flower of Crocus sativus, a crocus species that blooms in autumn. Each flower yields only three stigmas, which are picked and dried by hand. In the kitchen, saffron is used to give dishes color and flavor. For supplements, saffron is processed into a standardized extract, whereby the content of natural plant compounds such as safranal and crocins is brought to a fixed level. The label states how much saffron extract a product provides per serving.

Where does saffron come from?

The saffron crocus is grown in countries with a suitable climate, including Iran, which is the world's largest producer, and also Spain, Greece, India (Kashmir), and Morocco. The flowers are harvested in autumn, after which the red stigmas are manually removed from each flower. This labor-intensive harvest, combined with the large number of flowers required, partly determines the origin and quality of the saffron. The origin is often stated on the packaging or product page.

Why is saffron so expensive?

Saffron is considered the most expensive spice in the world, and there are practical reasons for this. Each saffron crocus yields only three stigmas, and they must be picked by hand one by one. An estimated hundred thousand flowers are needed for one kilogram of dried saffron. The short blooming period and the labor-intensive, entirely manual harvest make saffron rare and costly. With supplements based on saffron extract, this valuable raw material is reflected in the price, while a standardized extract offers a uniform composition.

Saffron extract and Affron

For supplements, saffron is generally processed into a standardized extract. A well-known, widely used variant is Affron, a patented saffron extract that is standardized to a fixed content of safranal and crocins and used in a relatively low dosage (often around 28 to 30 mg). In addition, you will find saffron extract in combination products, for example together with other plant extracts or fibers. In our assortment, you will find both loose saffron extract and combination preparations; the label states which extract and dosage it is.

How much saffron extract per day?

No official recommended daily amount has been established for saffron. The dosage per product varies and is stated on the packaging, expressed in milligrams of extract per capsule. Standardized extracts such as Affron are generally used in a fixed, relatively low daily dosage. Follow the instructions for use of the specific supplement and do not exceed the recommended dosage without advice. During pregnancy or breastfeeding, when taking medication, or in case of doubt, it is wise to consult a doctor beforehand.

Buying saffron: what to look out for?

When choosing a saffron supplement, there are a few practical points to consider. Look at the amount of saffron extract per capsule and whether it is a standardized extract, such as Affron, with a stated content of safranal and crocins. Determine whether you are looking for a loose saffron extract or a combination product. Pay attention to the origin and purity, and calculate the price per daily serving. Saffron is a plant-based extract; for related products, also view our Herbs & Plants collection.