'Cilantro-Free Tacos' May Appear... Cilantro Prices Triple Surge

Recent Heatwave and Hail Damage in Central Mexico's Puebla
Main Production Area of Taco Ingredient 'Gosu'... Harvest Affected by Pests

Recently, Mexico has been experiencing extreme drought and sudden hailstorms, unusual climate phenomena that have caused the price of cilantro, a key ingredient in dishes including tacos, to soar.

On the 22nd (local time), local media outlet El Economista reported that "the severe drought affecting all of Mexico is impacting agricultural yields." According to Mexico's National Integrated Market Information System (SNIIM), the retail price of a 5kg box of cilantro in Mexico City rose from 130 pesos (approximately 9,970 KRW) in mid-May to 450 pesos (about 34,500 KRW) in mid-June, an increase of about 3.5 times within a month. It was also reported that in some regions, cilantro prices have surged up to 10 times.

Tacos are known as Mexico's "national food." Cilantro is almost an essential ingredient in various types of tacos such as carnitas, al pastor, barbacoa, and suadero. Locals typically enjoy tacos with cilantro along with salsa (sauce), lime, and onions. This has raised concerns locally. Adan Bravo Rodriguez, the owner of a taco restaurant in Mexico City, told El Economista, "Cilantro is a traditional ingredient that must be included in tacos," adding, "We are contacting many suppliers to purchase high-quality cilantro at more affordable prices."

The sharp rise in cilantro prices is attributed to the unusual weather phenomena that struck Puebla, the main production area. Due to weather fluctuations, pests have significantly increased, disrupting the harvest. On the 27th of last month, a hailstorm accompanied by 50 km/h gusts swept through the region. The strong winds uprooted trees, caused roofs to collapse, and resulted in various damages. Hail accumulated up to 1 meter, burying cars parked along the roads.

This phenomenon draws more attention given that Mexico is currently suffering from a heatwave. At that time, some parts of Mexico experienced record-breaking heat with daytime temperatures exceeding 45 degrees Celsius. Since March, at least 48 people have died from heatstroke and dehydration. The heatwave also caused the collective death of over 80 monkeys that fell from trees.