In addition to their distinct taste and aroma, truffles are also highly nutritious, rich in antioxidants and may possess antibacterial, anticancer and anti-inflammatory properties.
The origin of the word truffle appears to be the Latin word tuber, meaning "lump".
Truffles grow and mature underground close to the roots of some types of trees, specifically oaks and elm trees.
It is believed to be an aphrodisiac food, that’s why truffles were banned by the Catholic Church hundreds of years ago.
From scientific studies we know that truffles were on the earth much earlier than humans, probably between 360 and 280 million years ago.
Truffles were loved by Aphrodite, Love Goddess (Philoxenus of Lefkas was among the first who spoke about its aphrodisiac powers).
A legend says that truffles are born in the point where thunderbolts thrown by Zeus meet the earth.
In the past, truffle hunting was conducted using pigs because of their incredible sense of smell. Now more than 8 dog breeds, including Pointer, Beagle and Labrador are using for truffle hunting.
Truffles are more abundant in Umbria than in any other part of Italy. Umbria is actually the single biggest producer of truffles in Italy.
In Italy there are 25 different species, but only 9 are edible and 5 are the most commonly marketed: Tuber Magnatum Pico, Tuber Melanosporum Vitt.,Tuber Aestivum Vitt., Tuber Borchii Vitt. and Tuber Brumale Vitt.
White Truffle (Tuber Magnatum Pico) is the most widely known truffle because of its taste and commercial importance. Considered the most expensive and exclusive food in the world.
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