Saffron is a spice derived from Crocus sativus flowers, commonly known as “saffron crocus.” Its cultivation in Afghanistan was promoted in a bid to take local... 01.11.2022, Sputnik International
The stigma and styles of saffron flowers are first collected, dried, and then used for seasoning food and coloring substances, varying from orange to red. Saffron is believed to originate in Iran, although Greece and Mesopotamia have also been suggested as the possible places of origin. Being traded and used for thousands of years, saffron is now the world’s most expensive spice by weight.Afghan saffron was once recognized as the best kind. In 2022, the approximate price range for Afghan saffron is between $776.94 and $1,011.19 per kilogram, or between $352.41 and $458.67 per pound. Referred to as "red gold," Afghan saffron has become one of the top items of export for the country, while crocus plantations have become a place of employment and source of income for many Afghan farmers. Now, more and more of them are turning to growing this kind of spice, as it is highly economically beneficial and not "haram," like drugs.
Saffron is a spice derived from Crocus sativus flowers, commonly known as “saffron crocus.” Its cultivation in Afghanistan was promoted in a bid to take local farmers away from growing poppies — the raw material for opium and heroin.
The stigma and styles of saffron flowers are first collected, dried, and then used for seasoning food and coloring substances, varying from orange to red.
Saffron is believed to originate in Iran, although Greece and Mesopotamia have also been suggested as the possible places of origin. Being traded and used for thousands of years, saffron is now the world’s most expensive spice by weight.
Afghan saffron was once recognized as the best kind. In 2022, the approximate price range for Afghan saffron is between $776.94 and $1,011.19 per kilogram, or between $352.41 and $458.67 per pound.
Referred to as "red gold," Afghan saffron has become one of the top items of export for the country, while crocus plantations have become a place of employment and source of income for many Afghan farmers. Now, more and more of them are turning to growing this kind of spice, as it is highly economically beneficial and not "haram," like drugs.
An Afghan man along with children harvest saffron flowers in a field on the outskirts of Herat province on October 31, 2022. (Photo by Mohsen KARIMI / AFP)
Afghan women workers separate saffron threads from harvested flowers at a processing centre in Herat province on October 31, 2022.
Newsfeed
0
Access to the chat has been blocked for violating the rules .
You will be able to participate again through:∞.
If you do not agree with the blocking, please use the feedback form
The discussion is closed. You can participate in the discussion within 24 hours after the publication of the article.
