"Real Saffron" Oversized Heavyweight t-shirt

Saffron is the most valuable and rarest of oriental spices. It is so valuable most saffron dealers are pushing fake saffron on unwitting spice aficionados.
Saffron is one of the most labor-intensive crops to produce. The stigmas must be picked by hand, often during a brief harvesting window to ensure quality. It takes approximately 150,000–200,000 flowers to produce just one kilogram (2.2 pounds) of saffron.

Low Yield Per Flower
Each saffron crocus yields only three stigmas, which are the usable part of the flower. This limited yield further contributes to the high cost.

Small Cultivation Areas
Saffron is grown primarily in specific regions of the world with suitable climates, such as Iran (which produces about 90% of the global supply), India, Spain, and parts of Italy and Greece. This limited cultivation adds scarcity.

High Quality Standards
Genuine saffron is graded based on its color, flavor, and aroma intensity. The highest-grade saffron, such as "Super Negin" from Iran, commands premium prices due to its superior quality.

Cultural and Culinary Significance
Saffron has been prized for thousands of years, not only for its culinary uses but also for its role in traditional medicine, religious rituals, and textile dyeing. Its rich history and symbolic significance enhance its value.

Time-Consuming Post-Harvest Processing
After harvesting, saffron threads must be dried under precise conditions to preserve their unique characteristics. This step is critical for producing the final product and requires skill and attention to detail.

Price
Because of these factors, saffron is often referred to as "red gold" and can cost $500 to $5,000 per kilogram, depending on its quality and origin. Its high value also makes it a target for adulteration, so purchasing from reputable sources is important to ensure authenticity.



• 100% premium carded cotton
• Fabric weight: 6.5 oz./yd.² (220 g/m²)
• High moisture absorbency
• Unisex style
• Oversized fit with drop shoulders
• Ribbed collar

[original design by Ismail "IJ" Atteyih]