“Saffron is cultivated in various parts of the world, but a significant portion of its cultivation takes place in Iran. Iran is considered one of the most important hubs for saffron production globally, with the value of saffron exports from Iran exceeding 300 billion rials annually. In the saffron production process, the stigmas and the flower’s raw cream are used as commercial saffron, while other parts of the flower, such as petals, are discarded as waste, which accounts for a substantial volume.

The geographical distribution of saffron in Iran is primarily in the Khorasan region, including cities like Qaenat, Birjand, Gonabad, and Torbat. Besides Iran, saffron is also cultivated in countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea, such as Spain, France, Greece, as well as countries like China and India. The total annual saffron production worldwide is around 400 tons, with over 80% of it harvested in Iran.”