harvesting
Saffron Harvesting: The Art of Collecting the Golden Nectar
At Safranco, we’re passionate about the art of saffron harvesting, which requires great skill and care to ensure the highest quality. Here’s a glimpse into the traditional process:
The Saffron Crocus
The saffron crocus (Crocus sativus) is a delicate, perennial flower that blooms in the autumn. The flowers are hand-picked in the early morning, when the petals are still tightly closed.
Harvesting the Stigma
The saffron threads (stigma) are carefully extracted from the flower by hand, using a gentle touch to avoid damaging the delicate tissue. Only the yellow-orange stigmas are harvested, as they contain the valuable pigment and flavor compounds.
Drying and Cleaning
The freshly harvested stigmas are dried immediately to preserve their flavor and aroma. The drying process is critical, as it prevents spoilage and preserves the delicate compounds.
Sorting and Grading
The dried stigmas are sorted and graded according to size, color, and quality. High-quality saffron is characterized by its deep yellow-orange color and strong, sweet flavor.
The Art of Saffron Harvesting
Saffron harvesting is an art that requires patience, skill, and attention to detail. It’s a labor-intensive process that involves:
- Hand-picking the flowers at dawn
- Gently extracting the stigma
- Drying and cleaning the stigmas
- Sorting and grading for quality
- Storing the saffron in a cool, dry place
Sustainable Saffron Harvesting
At Safranco, we’re committed to sustainable saffron harvesting practices that prioritize the environment and local communities. Our farmers use eco-friendly methods to ensure:
- Minimal waste
- Conservation of natural resources
- Fair labor practices
- Support for local communities
Experience the Art of Saffron Harvesting
Join us on a virtual tour of our saffron farm in Iran, where you can learn more about our sustainable harvesting practices and meet our dedicated farmers.
Email: info@safranco.uk or info@safranco.ir
Website: https://safranco.uk or https://safranco.ir
