Launch of the first saffron sorting plant in Iran in Mashhad

Launch of the first saffron sorting plant in Iran in Mashhad

“About three years ago, we managed to launch the first sorting plant for saffron, capable of separating out the medicinal part of the flower,” said Malihe Pakcheshm Moeini, describing the invention of her saffron sorting machine — the result of a ten-year effort by her workgroup.

Unlike similar equipment used in Spain, which only separates saffron from waste material, her device goes a step further: it also sorts the flower into its red, yellow, and orange segments in addition to the waste category.

Pakcheshm Moeini explained: Early laboratory research has examined compounds in the yellow, orange, and red parts of the saffron flower — including crocin and safranal — for possible mood-related and antioxidant effects, and some preliminary studies have looked at crocin’s anti-tumor activity in cell and animal models. This research is still preliminary, saffron is not a treatment for cancer or depression, and it should never replace medical advice or care from a qualified physician.

The Khorasan-based inventor said that having a good idea is not enough on its own. Once the device has an official name, she added, the team plans to build in more convenient features and add-ons; a patent application is already underway.

She emphasized that every step of the project, from start to finish, was funded out of the group’s own pocket, which put a real financial strain on the team. But she said the results made the effort worthwhile, adding that seeing a good outcome from their work made them proud.

The device was unveiled at the closing ceremony of a women’s empowerment exhibition in Mashhad. Although it was invented three years earlier, it has not yet been patented.