Honorary keynote at the national training workshop on Saffron Authenticity & Value Chain Development.
Related article: https://iran.un.org/en/306412-fao-and-iran-new-step-innovation-and-quality-integrity-saffron-value-chain
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture-Jahad (MAJ) and the Iranian Society for Horticultural Sciences (IrSHS), held a National Workshop on Saffron Quality Integrity and Value Chain Development. Taking place from 25 to 29 November, 2025, the workshop aimed at bringing together farmers, processors, cooperatives, traders, and Iranian national experts to enhance capacities in improved production practices, post-harvest handling, safety, traceability, modern marketing, and digital branding.
The Vice-Chair of ISHS Working Group Saffron, Prof. M. Sharafeldin, delivered an honorary keynote lecture and expressed his profound gratitude to Professor Kourosh Vahdati, President of IrSHS and Director of International Relations at the Academy of Sciences of Iran, for the distinguished invitation. The workshop was further honored by the presence and insightful opening address from Mr. Farrukh Toirov, FAO Representative in the Islamic Republic of Iran.
Prof. Sharafeldin’s keynote lecture, entitled Saffron authentication tools: a comprehensive framework from consumer to regulator, addressed the critical need for robust verification mechanisms across the entire saffron value chain. His presentation highlighted two major categories of authentication tools:
- Category 1: Simple at-home tests for consumers and rapid screening: these methods provide accessible, user-friendly approaches for preliminary quality assessment, empowering consumers while enhancing transparency within local and regional markets;
- Category 2: Advanced laboratory techniques for commercial and regulatory use: this section covered state-of-the-art analytical methodologies essential for definitive authentication, regulatory compliance, and safeguarding high-value international trade.
On behalf of the ISHS, Prof. Sharafeldin was also pleased to extend a cordial invitation to all participants to join the VII International Symposium on Saffron Biology and Technology (https://www.ishs.org/symposium/899), which will be held as part of the IHC2026 International Symposium on Medicinal, Aromatic Plants and Natural Colorants on August 23-28, 2026, in Kyoto, Japan.
This premier event will provide a continued platform for sharing cutting-edge research findings and strengthening our global collaborations in saffron science and industry. Prof. Sharafeldin extends his sincere appreciation to the organizers and all attendees for their invaluable contributions to this essential dialogue