The saffron scandal

According to an article in the Daily Telegraph, Spain exported 190,000 kilograms of saffron in 2010 netting the country nearly 47 million Euros. However, according to figures from the growers, only 1,500 kilograms actually came from Spain, the rest came from Iran, Morocco and Greece.

Pure saffron is harvested from the stigma of the crocus sativus linnaeus, 250,000 of which are needed to produce a single kilo. That is why it fetches such a high price.

The genuine article is prized for it pungent aroma and it rich amber hue. It is what makes the difference between a great paella and the majority of what passes off for this classic dish.

Most of the saffron sold as Spanish in shops throughout the world is vastly inferior stuff containing a high percentage of floral waste.

I must confess, I don’t always use the genuine article because it is just too expensive. However, I would like to think that any Spanish saffron I do buy actually comes from Spain as in grown and not just packaged here!