Vanilla pod - the second most expensive spice in the world after
saffron.
Sorry to correct OCEANOS. Truffles are less expensive than
vanilla pods since a pound of white truffle cost up to US$2000 and
a pound of grade AA vanilla pod cost up to US$4000.
Cant seemed to find quality vanilla pods unless ordering in
quantity from Culina. But can get them from Phoon huat co. Think it
cost $5 plus for one or 2 short pods.
Well grading is applicable to
almost everything not only culinary spice or ingredients like
saffron, truffles, vanilla pod, bird's nest, sharkfins, foie
gras etc. Pricing can be affected by availability & demand so
it varies, fluctuates & is subjective. Spending power of
the people who wants them also play a part. Many may think Saffron
is the most expensive but in this era, in reality it may not be so,
its just a misconception.
For your info in 2007, the
average cost of White Truffles from Italy cost about
USD$40,000 - $50,000 per kilo which is about USD$18,120 - $22,650
per pound.
A simple analogy, some people
are willing to buy a Hermes Birkin that cost about USD$16,000 or
more, not many are willing or can afford, many would rather buy a
brandless bag that cost alot lesser about USD$10 or more, it is
still a bag. The moment people see a Louis Vuitton, Many tend
to think or feel that Louis Vuitton is more
expensive compared to other labels but in reality it may not be so,
other labels similar apparels can cost as much or even more than
Louis Vuitton, its just a misconception.
Quality & Fineness in
life comes with a price, if you are willing or can afford to, you
can have the best. You can have the Best ingredient couriered to
your doorstep from the direct production source & place.
Even with the fineness of ingredient, you need to have superb
culinary skill to produce the best cuisine.
