Since time immemorial the quest for high-quality spices had triggered travel and trade across the world. It is why sea routes were adventurously ventured into and discovered. It is believed that the history of spices from Kerala dates back into history for over thousands of years. The unique climate, the monsoons that shower the hilly tracks of the State twice every year and the rich soil were all conducive to the cultivation of spices in abundance. No wonder that the State achieved a status as the premier place for spices trade and enjoyed a monopoly over spices. The ancient port of Muziris was the epicenter of the spice trade which made this port city the greatest of yore. It led to the Western countries seeking easier sea routes to India for trading with this ancient city.
The piquancy and richness of spices from Kerala, especially the Munnar region of central Kerala has attained new takers in recent times. Today the volume of trade in Indian spices have hit a new high and over 5 lakh tons of spices and herbs worth over $1500 million is traded annually from India, the major portion of which is accounted by spices from Kerala and mostly from the Munnar region of Kerala.
The “King of Spices”, pepper is one of the most sought-after spices and hence the production and export of this spice are of great importance for the State. Many advances have been made in the cultivation, harvesting, storage, drying, and packing of the spice. Long ago, spices were gathered in gunny bags and sold as a commodity. Today much of the pepper is packaged in bottles and tins, sold in powdered form, made into value-added products. This brings greater revenue and value to the producers in India.
The second most renowned spice from Kerala, again grown in abundance in the Munnar region is the “Queen of Spices”, the Cardamom. Modern food manufacturing and packaged foods require Cardamom for flavoring in huge quantities. The oleoresin from Cardamom is used in the manufacture of foods ranging from bread, ice creams, meat products and more. It is a vital ingredient in much of the modern-day cooking. Its amazing aroma gives brings to life salads, curries and puddings.
