10 Things You Didn’t Know About Foods That Were Once Illegal

8. The Spice Trade: When Nutmeg Was Worth More Than Gold

Nutmeg, a spice now commonly found in kitchens worldwide, once held a value greater than gold. In the 16th and 17th centuries, European powers vied to control the Spice Islands, where nutmeg was exclusively cultivated. This competition led to colonial conflicts, trade monopolies, and even bans on nutmeg trade for those outside the controlling powers. The spice's high value and limited availability symbolized wealth and power, driving global exploration and expansion. This section examines the historical significance of the spice trade, focusing on nutmeg's role in shaping global economies and cultural exchanges and its eventual democratization as a common culinary ingredient.