Why are truffles so expensive

Answer

Truffles are expensive for several reasons[2]. Firstly, they are very difficult to find, as truffles thrive only in a narrow band of weather conditions[2]. They are also frustrating to grow, and have a short season as well as being impossible to store for any length of time[3].

White truffles, which are the more expensive variety, have no outer shell to protect them from the elements, leaving them vulnerable and expensive[3]. Additionally, because truffles lack an outer shell, they can quickly lose their flavor and aroma and go bad if not consumed quickly[7]. This makes them even more expensive[2].

Furthermore, truffles are high-maintenance and require a complex combination of conditions to grow, which makes them more expensive than other kinds of truffles[5]. Harvesting truffles can be a long and difficult process, often done by hand or with specially trained dogs[7]. Finally, since truffles are so rare and sought after, they often succumb to price gouging as demand increases[3].

All of these factors combine to make truffles very expensive[3].

Websites

1. https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/food-drink/article/3170384/what-are-truffles-why-are-they-so-expensive-and-are-black-or
2. https://www.rd.com/article/why-are-truffles-so-expensive/
3. https://hospitalityinsights.ehl.edu/what-are-truffles-why-are-they-expensive
4. https://www.usatoday.com/in-depth/news/world/2019/03/16/truffles-why-so-expensive/3161242002/
5. https://www.marthastewart.com/8139467/white-black-truffle-cost-explained
6. https://www.cnbc.com/2018/11/26/why-truffles-are-so-expensive.html
7. https://www.tastingtable.com/799318/heres-why-truffles-are-so-expensive/
8. https://www.businessinsider.com/why-real-truffles-are-so-expensive-2019-10
9. https://www.truff.com/articles/why-are-truffles-so-expensive
10. https://www.nytimes.com/2012/12/26/dining/truffles-a-buried-treasure-filled-with-mystery.html

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