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10 Cheap Foods That Used to Be Expensive

Agricultural advancements, global trade, and shifting consumer tastes have turned many once-luxury foods into everyday items. Let's look at 15 examples.

Coffee

Coffee, once a luxury for elites in Europe and Middle East, became affordable in the 18th century due to mass production and trade. Now, it's one of the most consumed beverages worldwide.

Sugar

Sugar, once costly and imported, became affordable in the 18th century due to slave labor and advancements in production. It's now a household staple.

Chocolate

Chocolate was once a luxury due to costly production and ingredients. Technological advancements made it affordable and accessible.

Cinnamon

Once a luxury spice for the wealthy and sourced from Asia, cinnamon is now widely available and used in various cuisines.

Pineapple

Pineapples were once rare & costly to transport, making them a luxury food item. Now, they're grown globally and are more affordable.

Cloves

In ancient times, cloves were valued more than gold due to their medicinal properties. Over time, they became a widely-used spice for their distinct flavor.

Pistachios

Pistachios, a former delicacy in Rome and Greece, became affordable in the 19th century. Now, they're a popular snack, used in dishes and grown globally.

Nutmeg

Nutmeg was an in-demand medieval spice, used as currency and for its health benefits. The Dutch East India Company's monopoly resulted in high prices, but cultivation elsewhere made it cheaper.

Ice

Ice was once luxury, sourced from frozen bodies of water. The invention of refrigeration technology made it accessible for widespread use today.

Olive Oil

Olive oil was pricey in ancient Greece & Rome, used mainly for medicine by the wealthy. With advanced cultivation, it became a common cooking ingredient.

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