Iranian barberries, locally known as Zereshk, are among the most distinctive and vibrant fruits cultivated in Iran’s South Khorasan province, particularly in Qaen and Birjand. Revered for their bright ruby color, tangy taste, and rich antioxidant content, barberries have become a global superfood used in everything from gourmet dishes to herbal supplements.

However, not all barberries are the same. The Iranian market offers three primary varieties, each with its own unique cultivation method, flavor profile, and export potential:

Puffed (Pofaki)

Seedless (Anari)

Black Barberry (Zereshk-e-Siah)

Let’s explore what makes each of these types special, and how Tamila Agrifood Company ensures premium quality for international buyers.

1. Puffed (Pofaki) Barberry; The Premium Export Grade

The Puffed Barberry, known in Persian as Zereshk Pofaki, is the highest-grade variety and the most sought-after in international markets.

Processing Method:

After harvest, barberries are dried indoors in shade, allowing them to maintain their natural red color and puffy texture. Unlike sun-dried types, Puffed Barberries are not exposed to direct sunlight, preventing darkening or shriveling.

Appearance & Flavor:

•    Bright ruby-red color

•    Light, puffy texture

•    Mild tanginess with a slightly sweet undertone

Uses:

•    Premium food exports to Europe and the Middle East

•    Luxury rice dishes like Zereshk Polo ba Morgh

•    High-end confectionery and bakery products

Market Price (2025–2026 Forecast):

Puffed barberries command the highest price among all varieties, ranging between $6,800 – $8,300 per metric ton (FOB Bandar Abbas), depending on moisture level, packaging, and certifications.

Best For:

Exporters and distributors targeting high-end food brands, organic stores, and gourmet importers.

2. Seedless (Anari) Barberry; The Most Popular and Versatile Type

The Anari Barberry (Zereshk Anari) is the most widely produced and consumed variety in Iran and abroad. Its name comes from “Anar” (pomegranate), referring to its slightly darker red color and tangy taste.

Processing Method:

Anari barberries are sun-dried naturally, giving them a darker tone and a more concentrated tangy flavor. This method is faster and more cost-effective, making Anari the dominant choice for bulk exports.

Appearance & Flavor:

•    Deep red to dark crimson color

•    Slightly flattened and denser texture

•    Intense tanginess, with less puffiness than the Pofaki type

Uses:

•    Bulk food processing (sauces, jams, syrups)

•    Culinary exports to the Middle East and Asia

•    Affordable retail packs for supermarkets and wholesalers

Market Price (2025–2026 Forecast):

Anari barberries are typically $5,400 – $6,600 per metric ton (FOB), offering excellent price-to-quality value for bulk buyers.

Best For:

Importers seeking a balance between quality and affordability, especially for mass-market and industrial food applications.

3. Black Barberry; The Rare and Medicinal Variety

The Black Barberry (Zereshk-e-Siah) is a less common but highly valuable type found mainly in the northern and western parts of Iran, including Khorasan and Kermanshah.

Processing & Properties:

Unlike red barberries, black barberries belong to a different botanical species (Berberis vulgaris var. nigra). They are rich in berberine, a bioactive compound known for its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and metabolic benefits.

Pharmaceutical & Nutritional Uses:

•    Herbal extracts & supplements

•    Traditional medicine (blood sugar control, liver detox)

•    Tea blends and nutraceutical powders

Appearance & Flavor:

•    Deep black color

•    Smaller size and firmer texture

•    Mildly bitter and earthy taste

Market Price (2025–2026 Forecast):

Due to limited production and specialized use, black barberries trade between $7,200 – $8,400 per metric ton (FOB) in small quantities.

Best For:

Pharmaceutical importers, nutraceutical companies, and organic health food producers seeking a unique ingredient for functional products.

4. Comparative Overview of Iranian Barberry Varieties

Variety   /   Drying Method    /    Color   /   Texture    /   Taste  /      Typical Use   /   Avg. Price (USD/MT, FOB)

Puffed (Pofaki)   /  Shade-dried   /  Bright Red   /   Puffy & Soft   /    Mildly Tangy   /  Premium food & retail   /   $6,800–$8,300

Seedless (Anari)   /   Sun-dried    /   Dark Red   /   Dense Tangy   /   Mass export & industry   /  $5,400–$6,600

Black Barberry    /   Shade-dried   /   Deep Black    /   Firm   /   Slightly Bitter   /   Medicinal & supplements   /   $7,200–$8,400

5. Why Buyers Prefer Iranian Barberries?

Iran is the world’s largest producer and exporter of barberries, supplying over 95% of global demand. Several key factors contribute to its dominance:

Unique semi-arid climate in South Khorasan

Traditional, chemical-free cultivation

Expert post-harvest drying and sorting methods

Compliance with ISO, HACCP, Organic, and Halal certifications

Advanced packaging for moisture and color preservation

At Tamila Agrifood Company, we ensure that every shipment meets strict quality, traceability, and export safety standards.

6. Export Packaging Options

To meet the diverse needs of our global clients, Tamila Agrifood offers flexible packaging options:

•    Bulk: 10 kg / 12.5 kg / 25 kg cartons

•    Retail: 250 g – 1 kg pouches (vacuum-sealed or nitrogen-flushed)

•    Customized Private Label: available upon request

All shipments are fumigated, moisture-tested, and certified before export.

7. Tamila Agrifood; Your Trusted Partner for Iranian Barberries

With years of expertise in exporting premium Iranian agricultural products, Tamila Agrifood Company stands as one of the most reliable exporters of barberries, saffron, nuts, and dried fruits.

We combine traditional farming roots with modern logistics and international certifications, ensuring that our clients receive:

•    Consistent color and flavor quality

•    Timely delivery with cold-chain preservation

•    Competitive FOB pricing and framework contracts

Whether you’re a wholesaler, retailer, or food manufacturer, we tailor each shipment to your market’s exact needs.

Conclusion

Each variety of Iranian barberry tells a different story, one of tradition, craftsmanship, and natural excellence. From the luxurious puffed Pofaki to the versatile Anari and the rare black medicinal type, Iran’s barberry range offers unmatched quality and flavor diversity.

At Tamila Agrifood Company, we proudly deliver this Persian heritage to tables and markets around the world, fresh, authentic, and globally certified.

For Bulk Orders & Price Offers:

Email: tamilaagrifood@gmail.com

WhatsApp for Inquiries: +989141858935