Which Is the World's Most Expensive Spice?

Saffron (from Crocus sativus) is the world's most expensive spice, retailing at roughly $5,000–$10,000 per kilogram. Its high cost stems from the labour-intensive harvest: each crocus flower produces only three stigmas (the saffron threads), and roughly 150,000–200,000 flowers must be hand-picked to yield one kilogram. Iran produces about 90 % of the world's saffron. The spice is used in paella, risotto, bouillabaisse, and traditional sweets, and has been prized since antiquity for its colour, flavour, and medicinal properties.