About Greek Saffron






In Greece, greek red saffron is also known as Krokos Kozanis (Crocus Sativus Linneaus plant). Krocus blossoms only once a year in October / November, for barely 2 weeks, creating a purple magic carpet as far as the eye can see.
The flowers are harvested daily by hands, right after the morning dew has evaporated, and saffron antioxidants are at their peak. The work requires a degree of certain skills, takes place from sunrise till sunset, rain or shine and lasted 20 - 25 days.
After all the flowers have been collected, the fields look empty, but by dawn, the Krokos blooms once again, blanketing the fields in beautiful purple flowers. Krokos flower blooms for maximum 3 days and have to be collected before they are withered.
Petals are separated by hand from the saffron stigmas and stamens, immediately after being picked, followed by stigmas’ drying process, ensuring that the saffron is at its highest potency.
Amazing benefits of Saffron
- A Powerful Antioxidant
- May improves mood and treats depressive symptoms
- May have cancer-fighting properties
- May reduce PMS symptoms
- May Reduce Appetite and Aid Weight Loss
- May reduce heart disease risk factors
- May lower blood sugar levels
- May improve eyesight in adults with age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
- May improve memory in adults with Alzheimer’s disease
- May Act as an Aphrodisiac
- reduce Premenstrual syndrome
- Anti-inflammatory
Vitamins and Minerals found in Saffron
- Vitamin A (immune system, eyesight);
- Vitamin B2 (break down carbohydrates, proteins and fats to produce energy, and it allows oxygen to be used by the body);
- Vitamin B3 (digestive, skin, nervous system);
- Vitamin C (fight infections and aid iron absorption);
- Magnesium (regulate blood sugar);
- Manganese (nutrient absorption, production of digestive enzymes, bone development and immune-system defence);
- Zinc (hormone production include growth and repairment, improves immunity and facilitates digestion);
- Folic acid (Vitamin B9, help body produce and maintain new cells in particular red blood cells);
- Iron (essential for red blood cell production);
- Calcium (build and maintain strong bones, help heart, muscles and nerves to function properly);
- Potassium (helps control heart rate and blood pressure);
- Copper (helps body to form collagen and absorb iron and energy production)
- Selenium (mineral found in soil for antioxidants properties);
- Carotenoids (protect the lens and retina of the eyes)
Medical Disclaimer : The information and reference guides is solely for the general information for the reader. It is a summary of research and articles and should be treated as such. It is not to be used to diagnose health problems or for treatment purposes. It is not a substitute for medical care provided by a licensed and qualified health professional. Please consult your health care provider for any advice on medications
About Krokos Kozanis PDO
The Co-operative, known as Cooperative de Safran as established in 1971 and consists of about 1,000 members, coming from small villages in the Prefecture of Kozani, in the Western Macedonia Region. Its headquarters are based in the village of Krokos, whose name comes from the Ancient Greek name for the Crocus plant. The Cooperative, which is ISO 9001:2008 accredited is responsible for the collection, quality control, packaging and worldwide distribution of the entire annual crop of the excellent quality saffron “KROKOS KOZANIS PDO” (Protected Designation of Origin), from its modern facilities. Since 1997, the Cooperative de Safran has been a certified producer of organic saffron.
Grading of Saffron
Grading of saffron is done through gauging
(i) Picrocrocin (flavor)
(ii) Crocin (color)
(iii) Safranal (aroma) content
Testing is done in the laboratory by ISO professionals, and the higher the number of these 3 factors means the higher the saffron quality.
Grade I : 190 point (Greek red saffron 250 – 260)
Grade II : >150 point
Grade III -IV : <110 point
Krocus Kozanis Greek Red Saffron received a Grade I (A+) which means that it contains only red stigmas and is 100% premium saffron.