Iranian beluga caviar is one of the most elusive types of caviar. It comes from the Caspian Sea. In the United States, there are strict importation laws for this particular type of caviar. We want to walk through why there are restrictions on this type of caviar and explain what other options exist for Iranian caviar. Below, you will find information on the ban on the Iranian caviar, the available Iranian beluga caviar price, and alternatives to Iranian caviar.
The Price of Caviar
| Company | # Types of Caviar | $/oz Range | Shipping | Order |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Global Seafoods | 16 | $50-$185 | $16.20 | |
| Lummi Island Wild | 3 | $59-$112 | $99+ Free | |
| Vital Choice | 3 | $59-$170 | $99+ Free |
Background on Iranian Beluga Ban
The banning of Iranian beluga caviar in the United States began in 2005. In that year, the United States Fish and Wildlife Service imposed the ban because the fish was endangered. There was not enough documentation of the fishing methods to guarantee that there would not be overfishing. This ban is still in effect, but there is one notable exception.
In 2016, Sturgeon Aquafarms got permission to grow the fish. They are the only farm in the United States to have this permission to cultivate and sell beluga caviar. Their stock is available on the online site Marky’s. Iranian beluga caviar price is very expensive considering the circumstances. The farm gets around the ban because they have agreed to certain terms on sourcing and methods. There is potential for more farms to start growing the fish in the future. But for now, this is where the supply stands. You can still buy Iranian caviar, just other kinds.
Other Types of Iranian Caviar
While there are strict regulations on Iranian beluga caviar, there are still other caviar options available. The main types are almas, sevruga, osetra, and sturgeon. Each of these has slight differences, so we will compare their price and taste to Iranian beluga caviar price and taste.
- Almas: Almas caviar has a golden color. It is the rarest form of Iranian caviar. Compared to the Iranian beluga caviar price of other varieties, the almas price tops all the rest. It is so expensive that you may find you have to request information before being able to buy it. The roe has a buttery taste and a tender texture that makes it simply divine.
- Sevruga: Sevruga roe is crunchier than other types of Iranian caviar. The eggs have a grey color and have a subtle salty taste. An ounce of sevruga caviar can sell for around $155. Iranian caviar beluga price is slightly more expensive than this, but they are close.
- Osetra: Along with a buttery flavor, osetra is also nutty. The roe is larger than other types with a creamy texture. With minimal curing, osetra is not too salty The grading process impacts the price of osetra. The price per ounce of osetra caviar can range anywhere from $95 to $160. This is surprisingly one of the least expensive varieties despite its high price.
- Sturgeon: Sturgeon caviar is the last main alternative. The fish grow in the waters of the Caspian Sea which allows them to absorb minerals and the briny taste of the water. The roe have the recognizable black color and have a tender texture. The price depends on the grade of the roe.
Take note of our Affiliate Relationships that may exist with this page and companies listed on it.