Why is saffron the most expensive spice?

We all are aware of the fact that saffron is the most valuable spice till date and it is because of its unique qualities it is quite prevalent among the masses. It is also because of its unique features and uses that makes Saffron the most expensive spice in the whole world but it has its own drawbacks too along with the popularity. It is because of its huge demand and money value many market entities currently have started practicing trade that deals with selling degraded saffron to the customers and fooling them. It is beneficial to known that quality brand saffron will always be deep orange and red in color and the aroma of saffron is unique that can be felt within seconds of opening the can. Although saffron is a very valuable and unique spice but it is also easy to be fooled because of the large availability of its substitutes that may be similar in appearance and even in taste. Now days you may find certain unfamiliar thread like materials dyed in the color of saffron.
There are numerous varieties of saffron available in different regions of the world and among them Kashmir saffron that is grown in the Pampur region of Kashmir is the most popular one. Pure Kashmiri saffron is very much in demand among rest of the world because of its unique aroma and the flavor that it adds to the cuisine in which it is used. Other popular varieties from the regions of Spain include popular brands like Spanish superior and many more. The qualities of these brands are graded by the domestic government of the individual region as per the appearance and taste. Moreover, many people may find it difficult in obtaining pure Kashmiri saffron because of the numerous restrictions imposed on the export policy of saffron by Indian government.
From the above context it is clear that it is because of such unique medicinal and other qualities, saffron is very popular among the masses especially in the Asian regions. It is because of its popularity, most of the firms are now engaged in the mal practices of saffron adulteration and same is the matter of concern in most of the saffron cultivating nations. It is also because of the same reason that buying saffron can be a daunting task for us. Saffron is often substituted with pomegranate fibers and many other materials dyed in the same color to give it a yellowish appearance.