Press & Media
It was a year full of twists and turns, but always something to savor. Sustainability ruled the roost, alt-sweeteners got swept into a whirlwind, California decided to ban 5 food ingredients. As always, there's so much more to devour as we list our Top 10 stories of 2023.
At a Glance
How one company makes the world’s most expensive spice accessible for all. Farmer-owned co-op Heray Spice sources most of its single-origin ingredients, particularly saffron, in Afghanistan.
California to ban 5 ingredients: Red dye, BVO, and others got the boot, sending shockwaves through the industry.
From "tuna" rolls to salmon fillets, plant-based alternatives were no longer just sideshows, but main course contenders.
Sustainability ruled the roost: From regenerative farms to reducing waste, eco-consciousness was one of the hottest trends.
We are honored to announce that our products and story has been featured by Tamron Hall Show during their Tamron’s Holiday Potluck program. This is their third year annual potluck program.
At Heray Spice we believe that everyone involved in farming should earn a sustainable and fair income. Our cooperative of Afghan farmers cultivates saffron with passion and care, bringing you the purest and freshest spice that not only elevates your dishes but also supports sustainable farming practices.
We are exicted to be featured by Tara Tea Spoon Holiday Gift Recommendation
Here is what she wrote about us:
Heray Spice Saffron: Saffron is a luxury spice, treasured in various areas of the world for its flavor and color. Heray Spice owners are a group of Afghan immigrants and farmers from Afghanistan. They have been traveling back and fourth between US and Afghanistan to source the best saffron and other spices directly from local farmers. Heray’s farming practices ensure only the finest and most vibrant saffron strands make their way to the kitchen. $65 at time of publication.
Our Ultimate Spice Collection is now on Real Simple list of best gifts for 2023
This set of 15 spices from Heray Spice, a company that supports Fair Trade- and sustainably-sourced spice farming in Afghanistan, would make a great housewarming gift or graduation present. It contains saffron threads, wild cumin seeds, green coriander seeds, fennel seeds, turmeric, whole black pepper, cinnamon, chili powder, caraway seeds, cardamom, curry powder, pink sea salt, harissa, and za’atar.
Heray Spice is a local business based in Chicago, Illinois with a social mission to help farmers with better wages while helping chefs with the freshest and highest quality spices from Afghanistan. At Heray Spice, they empower Afghanistan farmers by promoting fair trade practices and sustainable agriculture, while providing the highest quality spices to customers.
Q. What is your passion? Tell us about it.
A. Love for Culinary Arts: The passion for exploring and sharing unique flavors and culinary experiences can drive someone to start a spice business. The desire to create and offer high-quality spices that enhance the taste and aroma of dishes can be a motivating factor. Cultural Heritage and Tradition: Starting a spice business like Heray Spice could be driven by a deep connection to one's cultural heritage and a desire to preserve and share the culinary traditions of a specific region or country.
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An elevated Persian dining experience, Joon opened this week in Tysons. The concept combines “contemporary Western elements with classic Iranian roots,” according to a press release.
The team, led by chef Najmieh Batmanglij, chef Christopher Morgan, and co-founder Reza Farahani, hopes to put “Iran’s rich culture and cuisine in the spotlight,” according to the press release. Batmanglij has worked for decades adapting Persian dishes to Western techniques and flavors. “Joon,” which means “life” in Persian, is also the name of one of Batmanglij’s numerous cookbooks. Maydān in DC received a Michelin star while Morgan was chef there.
Joon sources produce locally from Moon Valley Farm in Maryland, and spices are sourced from Heray Spice, a Chicago-based company with a mission to help farmers achieve better wages, while also helping chefs source fresh and high-quality Afghani spices.