Mexico's Cilantro Prices Soar Amid Drought

Rising Cilantro Prices in Mexico Impacting Culinary Culture and Business

The prices of cilantro in Mexico have skyrocketed by 400% due to severe drought conditions, with a 5-kilogram bunch now fetching between $24.26 and $27.57. Puebla, a major supplier, has been severely affected by the lack of rain and extreme heat, leading to this drastic price hike. Consequently, many taquerias and markets have resorted to reducing the usage of cilantro or opting for substitutes like parsley and lettuce.

The impact of climate change is also manifested in the soaring prices of other produce, such as onions, broccoli, and avocados, which are grappling with water shortages. This trend of escalating crop prices due to extreme weather is a global concern, affecting staple foods like wheat and soy as well.

Key Takeaways

• Cilantro prices in Mexico have risen 400% due to drought, costing $24.26 to $27.57 for a 5-kilogram bunch.
• Taquerias and markets are substituting cilantro with parsley or lettuce to cope with the price surge.
• Extreme weather linked to climate change is increasing prices for onions, broccoli, and avocados.
• Puebla, the main supplier of Mexican cilantro, has been severely affected by drought and hail.
• Restaurants and taquerias are reducing cilantro usage but find it essential for their dishes.

Analysis

The drought in Puebla has quadrupled cilantro prices, significantly impacting Mexican restaurants and markets. In the short-term, businesses are substituting cilantro with cheaper alternatives like parsley, thereby altering traditional flavors. In the long-term, climate change is exacerbating crop volatility, leading to increased costs for onions, broccoli, and avocados globally. This trend not only threatens food security but also inflates costs for consumers and businesses, potentially reshaping culinary practices and agricultural investments towards drought-resistant crops.

Did You Know?

• Cilantro: Also known as coriander, it is an herb widely used in Mexican cuisine, renowned for its distinctive flavor, and is a key ingredient in various dishes, including salsas and guacamole.
• Taquerias: These casual, often street-side eateries in Mexico specialize in tacos and other simple Mexican dishes, and they are integral to Mexican food culture, known for their fresh, fast, and affordable offerings.
• Puebla: A state in central Mexico known for its rich culinary heritage and agricultural production. It holds a significant role in supplying various crops, including cilantro, to the rest of the country and beyond.