New Mexico State University’s Sustainable Agriculture Science Center at Alcalde will host a saffron harvesting and processing workshop from 9 to 11 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 22, at 371 County Road 40 in Alcalde, New Mexico.
“Participants will learn the critical steps in saffron production, including how and when to harvest saffron flowers for maximum quality,” said Saeid Zehtab Salmasi, associate professor and research director.
The workshop, presented by Salmasi, is free but limited to 30 attendees. RSVP is required by contacting Elena Arellano at 505-852-4241 or eare@nmsu.edu.
The workshop will include training in separating stigmas from flowers, proper dehydration techniques to preserve quality and practical tips for culinary uses of saffron. Attendees also will learn about the potential uses of other parts of the saffron flower, such as petals and stamens, for value-added products like teas, natural colorants and cosmetics.
“This workshop introduces New Mexico stakeholders to saffron — the world’s most expensive spice — and highlights its potential as a high-value specialty crop,” Salmasi said. “By building awareness and skills, we aim to support diversification and economic opportunities for growers in the region.”
For more information or to request disability accommodations, contact Arellano by Oct. 20 at 505-852-4241 or eare@nmsu.edu.