Saffron at AREC
AREC has been a leading center for saffron production, training, and applied research for more than 15 years. Located in the heart of the Bekaa Valley, AREC provides a unique setting for cultivating saffron, training students and farmers, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices around this high-value crop. Commercial production of premium saffron at AREC started in 2014.
Through its saffron program, AREC trains farmers and students on best practices in saffron cultivation, harvesting, drying, storage, and quality control. Over the past decade, AREC has organized more than 20 workshops dedicated to sustainable saffron production, strengthening its role as a regional knowledge hub for this valuable crop.
AREC produces high-quality, dark red saffron threads known for their distinctive aroma, flavor, and golden color when infused in warm water. Saffron fields at AREC are cultivated using best agricultural practices, and flower stigmas are collected with great care to preserve product quality. AREC’s saffron program also emphasizes quality, safety, and training as key pillars of production.
Saffron Field Day
As part of its outreach mission, AREC organizes Saffron Field Days that invite members of the AUB community, alumni, farmers, and interested visitors to experience the saffron harvest season firsthand. The 2023 Saffron Field Day included a presentation on AREC’s mission, saffron production, and harvesting practices, followed by a field demonstration and hands-on harvesting experience.
Participants had the opportunity to walk through AREC’s saffron fields, observe the harvesting process, visit the laboratories, and learn about the final steps of drying and storing saffron. The event reflected AREC’s commitment to experiential learning, farmer engagement, and community outreach.
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