In the 1800s, New England lobsters were considered a cheap and abundant food source, even cheaper than canned beans. Fast forward to today, and a pound of lobster can sell for as much as $50, making it one of the priciest seafood items on the market. This dramatic shift in pricing is just one example of how certain foods have gone from being seen as low-cost options to luxury items.
Business Insider recently embarked on a journey around the world to explore how 11 different foods made the transition from being considered “cheap eats” to luxury foods. From oxtail to foie gras, oysters to acai, these once humble ingredients have now found their place on the menus of high-end restaurants and gourmet establishments.
The video marathon delves into the history and transformation of each of these foods, highlighting the factors that contributed to their rise in status and price. Whether it’s the labor-intensive process of harvesting caviar or the specialized farming techniques required to produce Wagyu beef, each food item has a unique story behind its evolution into a luxury product.
Through stunning visuals and informative narration, the Business Insider Marathon provides viewers with a deeper understanding of how cultural, economic, and culinary factors have played a role in shaping the perception and value of these 11 foods. From the humble beginnings of quinoa to the opulence of tuna belly, this exploration of “cheap eats” turned luxury foods offers a fascinating look at the intersection of food and business in today’s global market.
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Video “How 11 'Cheap Eats' Became Luxury Foods | Business Insider Marathon” was uploaded on 01/22/2025 to Youtube Channel Business Insider