Russian Caviar
Russian caviar is a luxury food item. Coming from sturgeon like Beluga, Sevruga, and Osetra, it is a delectable delicacy. However, its supply is threatened today. In 1962, the Soviet Union did not allow open-sea fishing of the Caspian Sea. Since it controlled four-fifths of the sea and Iran controlled a fifth, Caspian caviar was not widespread. Overfishing was not a problem. However, with the collapse of the Soviet Union, this ban was not followed as before. Overfishing became a problem and the Caspian Sea sturgeon population became threatened. Therefore, Russian caviar is not found abundantly and this is reflective in caviar prices you see in retail and online caviar shops. This is also the reason behind the growth of caviar alternatives, like salmon and paddlefish. Further, poachers are taking advantage of the opportunity and selling the luxury item at high prices. Regardless of all the issues surrounding Russian malossol caviar, it is still a respected delicacy.