Is Spanish Saffron Really Good?
When you hear the term Spanish saffron, you may immediately think of high quality, rich color, and exquisite aroma.
Spain is, after all, famous for dishes like paella, which showcase this prized spice.
But here’s a surprising fact: most of what is sold as “Spanish saffron” isn’t actually grown in Spain.
In this blog post, we’ll uncover the truth behind the label, compare Spanish and Iranian saffron, and explain why top saffron exporters — including Spanish companies — often turn to Iranian saffron suppliers like Vahid & Ehsan Foodstuff Trading for bulk sourcing.
Is Spanish Saffron Really from Spain?
Spain has a long history of saffron cultivation, particularly in Castilla-La Mancha, where the Azafrán de La Mancha label is protected under the EU’s PDO (Protected Designation of Origin). However, actual saffron production in Spain is extremely limited.
Key Statistics:
Spain produces only around 500–1,500 kg of saffron annually.
But it exports more than 50,000 kg of saffron each year.
That means over 95% of so-called “Spanish saffron” is imported, usually in bulk from countries like Iran.
So how is this possible?
The answer is simple: bulk saffron from Iran is purchased by Spanish companies, repackaged in Spain, and then sold globally as “Spanish saffron.”
Why Spanish saffron companies source from Iran?
Iran is the undisputed global leader in saffron production, accounting for more than 90% of the world’s supply. Iranian saffron is renowned for its:
Deep red color
Intense aroma
High crocin (color), picrocrocin (taste), and safranal (aroma) content
These factors make it the highest-grade saffron available on the market, especially when it is freshly harvested, properly dried, and well-handled, like the saffron offered by Vahid & Ehsan Foodstuff Trading.
Spanish Companies Buy from Us – And You Can Too
At Vahid & Ehsan Foodstuff Trading, we are proud to be one of the trusted suppliers of premium Iranian saffron to food brands and saffron packagers across the world — including Spain.
Many Spanish brands that advertise “Spanish saffron” are simply buying in bulk from us, packaging it in Spain, and then selling it under their own label.
If you’re in the restaurant business, retail, or food packaging industry, why not go straight to the source?
✅ Check our latest wholesale saffron prices here. (Bulk Saffron Price)
✅ Get better quality at a better price – without the middlemen.
How to Identify Authentic Saffron Origin
If you’re concerned about authenticity, look for the following on saffron packaging:
| Label Says | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Packed in Spain | Likely imported (often from Iran) |
| Product of Spain (no PDO) | May still be imported |
| PDO Azafrán de La Mancha | Grown and packaged in Spain (limited supply) |
| Product of Iran | Likely genuine Iranian saffron |
Final Verdict: Is Spanish Saffron Good?
Yes — Spanish-grown saffron is good, but it’s really rare and very expensive.
However, most saffron sold under the Spanish label is actually Iranian saffron, often sourced from premium exporters like us. If you’re buying saffron in bulk, cut out the middle layer, and deal directly with us to ensure you’re getting the highest quality at the most competitive price.