The cilantro shortage is affecting culinary habits and the economy, especially in cilantro-heavy areas. This article examines the shortage’s causes, its effects on prices and availability, and the environmental and agricultural backdrop.
Context and Causes
A severe drought in Spring 2024 caused Mexico City’s cilantro shortage. Cilantro, a heat- and water-sensitive plant, has suffered from delayed rains. The drought and record-high temperatures since October 2023 have made cilantro, a staple in tacos, a luxury. Due to its weather sensitivity, cilantro is especially susceptible to dry spells.
Price Increase and Economic Impact
Due to the shortage, cilantro prices have risen. Maricela from Tacos Arturo says that the price for 5 kilos, previously 150 pesos (~$8.40), has increased to 300 pesos per kilo. Gerardo Cerros from Tacos Kenia reports a price increase from 80-100 pesos to 1,000 pesos (~$55) for 5 kilos. Even in early May, Alan García saw a price of 500 pesos for 5 kg. The steep price increase has put vendors and consumers under financial duress, changing the market dynamics of crucial culinary components.
Culinary Implications
Tacos’ unique flavour depends on cilantro. The shortage has led taqueros to ration cilantro, hurting recipe authenticity. Some merchants are using more onion or less cilantro to make up for the shortage. Customers used to specific flavours are unhappy with the reduced presence of cilantro, demonstrating its cultural significance in street cuisine.
Environmental Factors and Water Crisis
Outdated infrastructure and policies that favour industrial water consumption over small-scale farming exacerbate Mexico City’s water difficulties. The city usually starts its wet season in late May, but this year it was dry until mid-June. Lack of water and irrigation has hurt cilantro agriculture, as 39% of Mexico’s food comes from producers with less than five hectares.
Impact on Farmers
Small-scale farmers, who depend on rainfall, have seen crop yield drop due to the drought. Current agriculture policies provide little support, lowering crop income. These farmers, who are vital to the food supply system, struggle to purchase new irrigation technologies.
Historical context and cultural significance
After the Spanish invasion, cilantro became famous in the 20th century. It’s essential to street tacos, a Mexico City worker staple. Mexican urban cuisine culture values cilantro, therefore its disappearance from tacos is mourned.
Future Considerations
Food supply issues may intensify with rising global temperatures and pro-large-scale agriculture policies. Agroforestry and traditional farming systems may help solve these problems. These methods may protect against climate change disruptions.
Community Efforts and Current Status
Taqueros ration cilantro while waiting for normal availability. Growing cilantro after the drought is complicated by concerns about overwatering from sudden rainfall.
FAQ
What caused the cilantro shortage?
A severe drought in Mexico City, record-high temperatures, and delayed rainfall have caused the cilantro shortage.
Cost of cilantro increased how much?
The price of 5 kilogrammes of cilantro has risen from 80 or 100 to 1,000 pesos, hurting sellers and consumers.
Why is cilantro significant in Mexican food?
Traditional tacos need cilantro for flavour, so excluding it undermines authenticity.
Can the scarcity be addressed?
Increasing climate resilience through sustainable farming practices like agroforestry.
How has the shortage affected vendors?
Limited ingredient supply has vendors rationing cilantro, changing recipes, and dissatisfying customers.
What environmental variables cause the shortage?
The cilantro shortage has worsened due to infrastructure concerns and prolonged drought.
Why is tacos sans cilantro culturally significant?
Locals consider cilantro important in street tacos, therefore its disappearance is a cultural loss.
