Blogs & Updates

On Tuesday, September 19, Allies for Community Business launched the eighth cohort of the Neighborhood Entrepreneurship Lab (NEL).
NEL was developed in partnership with The Chicago Community Trust and lead donor, Bob Crawford, to provide capital, coaching, and collaboration to entrepreneurs ready for growth. The program pairs small business owners with investors, advisors and strategists who provide intensive assistance as well as introductions to influential contacts within their personal networks. In addition, each entrepreneur receives a $20,000 grant to grow their business.

Saffron, often referred to as the 'red gold,' isn't just a culinary treasure; it holds the secret to radiant and healthy skin. With its remarkable antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, saffron has become a global skincare sensation. The best part? You can harness saffron's magic right at home with these easy DIY skincare recipes. Let's delve into the world of saffron and unveil how it can elevate your skincare routine. From a brightening face mask to a soothing aloe vera gel blend, these recipes promise a natural glow and deep nourishment. Remember, before you embark on this saffron journey, perform a patch test and consult a dermatologist if you have specific skin concerns. Let saffron be your skincare ally, and let your skin revel in the goodness of this ancient spice.

Saffron, often referred to as the "red gold," has transcended its traditional culinary and medicinal uses to become a sought-after ingredient in the cosmetics industry. Derived from the dried stigmas of the saffron crocus plant, this vibrant red spice boasts a rich history dating back to Greece and is now cultivated worldwide, including in Iran, Spain, and China. Traditionally known for food coloring and flavoring, saffron has expanded its repertoire to include skincare applications. Scientific research confirms its skin-friendly properties, such as shielding against harmful UV radiation through its antioxidant compound crocin, combating inflammation, facilitating wound healing, and reducing hyperpigmentation. While these benefits are substantiated by studies, saffron's role in skincare is an ongoing area of exploration, necessitating further human research for comprehensive validation. However, it remains a promising natural resource for enhancing skin health and addressing common skin concerns, adding depth to the evolving field of skincare.

In the ongoing battle against COVID-19, saffron emerges as a potential game-changer. This treasured spice, known for its vibrant color and unique flavor, may hold the key to taming inflammation and preventing the dreaded cytokine storm that plagues severe COVID-19 cases. As the world grapples with the unprecedented medical challenges posed by the pandemic, saffron's rich history in traditional medicine takes center stage in the quest to combat COVID-19. Its three key components, crocetin esters, Picrocrocin, and Safranal, renowned for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, now face scrutiny for their potential in addressing this global health crisis. Research highlights saffron's promising immunomodulatory actions, its role in reducing the cytokine cascade, and its potential to inhibit the SARS-CoV-2 virus. However, as we tread this path, rigorous clinical trials remain the compass guiding saffron's potential journey from spice rack to medical arsenal. While the promise is tantalizing, we must await the verdict of science before embracing saffron as a preventive or treatment option, recognizing its enduring role in the development of novel antiviral drugs.

Indulge in the opulence of saffron-infused whipped cream, a delightful accompaniment that elevates your desserts to a whole new level of luxury. Made with the finest Heray Saffron, this aromatic and velvety whipped cream is sure to impress your taste buds and leave a lasting impression on your guests. It's the perfect finishing touch for cakes, pastries, fruits, and more.
Preparation Time: 15 minutesYield: Approximately 2 cups of saffron whipped cream

Heray Spice recently exhibited at the Summer Fancy Food Show held at Booth 4840 in Javits Center, New York. The exhibition proved to be a fantastic opportunity for us to showcase our products and connect with clients, friends, and potential customers.
As we reflect on our exhibition experience, we are tremendously excited about the positive outcomes achieved. The Summer Fancy Food Show has expanded our customer base, heightened brand awareness, and reinforced our position as a trusted provider of premium spices. We are grateful for the warm reception and positive feedback received from those who visited our booth.