What Are Black Truffles And Why Are They So Expensive?

A Brief History of Black Truffles

Black truffles were first discovered during ancient Egyptian times. Pharaohs considered them sacred offerings for the gods. Later, truffles made their way into Greek and Roman civilizations, where they were regarded as luxurious delicacies reserved for nobility and royalty. It is said that Roman Emperor Nero once flavored his foie gras with black truffles, and the famous philosopher Pliny the Elder reportedly died after consuming too many of them.

During the Middle Ages, truffles were seen by the Church as evil due to their dark, knotted appearance, which was thought to resemble something demonic. As a result, truffles disappeared from European tables for centuries, until they were rediscovered and appreciated again in the 17th century. From then on, black truffles became a hallmark of fine French and Italian cuisine. In France, they’re often used in chicken pies or mashed potatoes, while in Italy, they're shaved over pasta or pizza.

What Exactly Is a Black Truffle?

Black truffles are a type of fungus that grows underground in symbiosis with the roots of certain trees—typically oak, hazel, and willow. They form 10 to 30 centimeters below the soil and resemble irregularly shaped balls with a bumpy surface. Their outer color ranges from deep brown to black, while the inside features white or grayish marbled patterns.

What Does a Black Truffle Taste Like?

Truffles are known for their intense and complex aroma. Their flavor is rich, earthy, slightly sweet with a hint of bitterness—truly a sensory experience that words can’t fully capture. A small amount is enough to infuse an entire dish with its signature fragrance. Interestingly, the flavor profile of truffles can shift depending on the ingredients and cooking method used. They pair beautifully with meats, eggs, cheeses, bread, and more. While the taste may seem unusual at first, it quickly becomes addictive after just one bite.

Beyond their irresistible flavor, black truffles are packed with nutritional and health benefits. They’re rich in protein, carbohydrates, dietary fiber, minerals, and B vitamins, which are essential for metabolism and the nervous system. They also contain special compounds like truffle aldehyde and truffle alcohol, known for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and even anticancer properties. Additionally, truffles can stimulate the release of dopamine—a neurotransmitter that helps elevate mood.

Why Are Black Truffles So Expensive?

Truffles are extremely particular about their growing conditions. They require a warm, humid climate and well-drained, calcium-rich soil. In southern France, for example, black truffles can sell for as much as €1,000 per kilogram. France is one of the world’s main truffle producers, accounting for around 45% of global output, with Italy and Spain also being major suppliers. However, because truffles cannot be cultivated artificially and due to years of overharvesting, their yield has dramatically decreased. In 1937, France produced around 1,000 tons of truffles annually—today, that number has dropped to just 50 tons.Black truffles from Yunnan, China, are known for their firm texture, high density, and compact structure. When mature, they emit a strong, distinct aroma. During peak season, these truffles are exported to over 20 countries. Grown at altitudes above 3,500 meters, Yunnan truffles boast a fragrance and quality that rivals those of France and Italy.

Introducing ShunDi's Dried Black Truffles

Sourced from the high-altitude regions of Yunnan, ShunDi’s dried black truffles deliver the rich aroma and deep flavor of this prized delicacy in a convenient, shelf-stable form. As a reliable bulk supplier, we provide fully traceable, 100% natural truffle products—crafted with over 30 years of manufacturing expertise and backed by international certifications. In addition to black truffles, We supply a wide range of dried mushrooms in bulk, including shiitake, porcini, Matsutake and oyster mushrooms.

Enhance your product offerings with the unmistakable taste of authentic black truffles—consistently delivered with ShunDi’s commitment to quality, safety, and excellence.