What kind of berry is this?
Shiroi Houseki (translated from Japanese - "White gem") is a variety of strawberry bred in Japan in the Saga prefecture. Unlike ordinary strawberries, it is snow-white with a pinkish tint, and its seeds, on the contrary, are bright red. And yes, it really is a berry, and not a work of art, although outwardly it is easy to confuse this.

Why is it so expensive?
Here are some reasons:

Rarity: Growing white strawberries requires special climate conditions, sterile soil, and a lot of manual labor. The yield is extremely low.

Selection process: Only the most ideal berries are selected for sale. They must be smooth, of a certain color, size, and aroma.

Taste: delicate, juicy, with notes of pineapple and caramel. According to those who have tried it, the taste is different from the strawberries we are used to and literally “melts in your mouth.”

Prestige: In Japan, these berries are given as a luxury gift for the holidays - in a beautiful box, often one or two pieces. This is not food, but a status symbol.

How much does it cost?
One berry can cost from $10 to $50, and a gift box of 12 berries - up to $500-600. Sometimes the price reaches $1,000 per box, especially if it is a premium harvest or a limited edition.

Are there any competitors?
Yes, the ruby ​​raspberry from Great Britain and the "heavenly blueberry" from the USA are hot on their heels, but for now, it is Shiroi Houseki that remains the most expensive berry in the world.

Conclusion
Who would have thought that a modest-looking strawberry could cost as much as a dinner at an expensive restaurant? The world of gastronomy is full of surprises. So next time, looking at an ordinary strawberry in a store, remember that somewhere in Japan there is its "royal" sister - snow-white, exquisite and very expensive.