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Plants & Gastronomy
Top 10

Black pepper (Piper nigrum)
The dried berries of the piper nigrum vine, black pepper is one of the most universal spices, adding piquancy to a wide range of dishes and cuisines.

Chilli (Capsicum spp.)
Used as a preservative in hot climates, chilli is one of the most widely used spices throughout the world. It can even add piquancy to sweet foods such as chocolate.

Cocoa (Theobroma cacao)
Originating in Mexico, chocolate is loved worldwide. Its Latin name means ‘food of the Gods’ and for many people, it truly is a heavenly treat.

Coffee (Coffea arabica)
A stimulant, a popular flavouring and a drink that millions of people around the world start every day with, over 100 million bags are produced every year.

Garlic (Allium sativum)
Garlic is used in many cuisines, from the Far East to Europe and Latin America. Its pungent and distinctive flavour adds depth to a wide range of savoury dishes.

Grape (Vitis vinifera)
 Wine has been produced from grapes for around 4,500 years. Viticulture originated in the Middle East and Mediterranean, and has spread throughout the world, becoming a global business.

Lemon (Citrus limon)
First grown in the Middle East and Mediterranean, lemons are an excellent natural source of vitamin C, and are used equally in sweet and savoury dishes.

Olive (Olea europaea)
Olives and olive oil are a staple of the Middle Eastern and Mediterranean diet. They are considered to be one of the main reasons for healthy hearts in those regions.

Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum)
Another import from Latin America, tomatoes were used in Italy long before the rest of Europe, hence their prominence in cuisine from that region.

Vanilla (Vanilla fragrans)
Brought back from Mexico by the Conquistadors, the pods of the vanilla fragrans orchid produce one of the world’s most popular fragrances.