A List of The Worlds Most Costly Spices

Spices and herbs help you to enhance considerably the flavor of food. They allow you to create tasty and delicious meals easily. Also, let it not be forgotten that spice trade played an important role for Asian, African and European civilizations.

1. Saffron – the price per kilogram varies from $1,100 to $11,000, depending on the quality. It is cultivated mainly in Iran, India, Morocco, Spain, southern France, Italy, and Greece. There are at least two reasons why saffron is so highly valued. First, the cultivation of this spice is a labor-intensive process. Second, saffron has a unique flavor and aroma.

2. Vanilla – can cost up to $500-600 per kilogram. Vanilla cultivation is a long and labor-intensive process. It takes 6-9 months from pollinating to harvesting, and every production stage needs to be completed by hand. Vanilla is highly appreciated for its flavor and scent, as it is used not only in the food industry but also in fragrance manufacturing. About 80% of the world’s natural vanilla is produced in Madagascar.

3. Cardamom – costs about $60 per kg. It is considered the third-most expensive spice in the world. Cardamom is cultivated in India, Guatemala, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, and Nepal. This spice is valued for its aroma and flavor.

4. Cloves – the price for this spice ranges from $7 to $20 per kilogram. This spice is native to Indonesia and is also cultivated in India, Pakistan, Madagascar and Sri Lanka. Cloves are very popular in a number of different cuisines, particularly in Asia.

5. Cinnamon – costs about $10 per kilogram. It is cultivated in Sri Lanka, Brazil, India, Indonesia, and China. There exist many cinnamon species, like Chinese or Ceylon cinnamon. Ceylon cinnamon is considered to be “true” cinnamon, it is less common and more pricey.

Other expensive spices include black pepper, turmeric, and nutmeg. All these spices are valued for their rich and unique flavors.