Negin saffron is one of the highest quality and most popular types of saffron in the markets of Iran and the region. This type of saffron is always a primary choice for buyers due to its unique visual characteristics and high coloring power. Let’s take a closer look at this type of saffron.
Visual Characteristics of Negin Saffron
Negin saffron is very attractive and beautiful due to its uniform, large, and long red threads without breakage. One of the prominent features of this saffron type is the separation of the stigma threads, which gives Negin saffron its distinctive appearance.
Difference Between Negin Saffron and Sargol Saffron
Sargol and Negin saffron are two common types of saffron that differ in appearance and quality. Sargol saffron has thinner and shorter threads, with a length of less than two centimeters, while Negin saffron has thicker and longer threads, typically two centimeters or more in length. These differences make Negin saffron known as a premium saffron, while Sargol saffron usually falls into the second-grade category.
Introduction to Super Negin and Semi-Negin Saffron
In Negin saffron, if the thread length exceeds 2.5 centimeters, it is referred to as Super Negin saffron. If the end part of the Super Negin saffron is yellow, it is called Semi-Negin. The thickness of these two types of saffron is similar.
Processing and Production of Negin Saffron
Negin saffron is produced through meticulous processing during the cleaning of saffron. For this purpose, the stigmas are cut at the point where the red color ends and branches out. This method ensures that Negin saffron is entirely red and uniform.
Pressed and Tooi Dried Negin Saffron
Saffron drying methods include traditional and Tooi methods. In the Tooi method, saffron is dried in such a way that the threads remain smooth and unbroken, producing a more uniform saffron.
Buying and Selling Negin Saffron
Due to its high quality and beautiful appearance, Negin saffron is in high demand both in domestic and international markets and is considered one of the best types of saffron for export. This type of saffron, due to its higher price, is mainly used for export and in specialized centers, while Sargol saffron is typically used for domestic purposes and local stores.
Identifying Authentic Negin Saffron
Identifying authentic Negin saffron is not easy, but it is possible to differentiate genuine saffron from counterfeit ones by paying attention to certain features such as slow coloring, the trumpet-like shape of the stigma ends, and natural red color. The best way to ensure the purchase of authentic Negin saffron is to buy from reputable and established stores.