Press Play with Madeleine Brand

Truffles: Bling of the culinary world has a dark side

A few years ago, one 3.3 pound truffle sold for $330,000. High prices mean that the industry is filled with fraud and corruption. Ian Purkayastha has been steeped in it since he was a teenager. Now at 24, he’s one of the most sought-after importers of truffles.

By Madeleine Brand • Feb 7, 2017 • 1 min read

A few years ago, one 3.3 pound truffle sold for $330,000. High prices mean that the industry is filled with fraud and corruption. Ian Purkayastha has been steeped in it since he was a teenager. Now at 24, he’s one of the most sought-after importers of truffles.

Madeleine Brand
Host, 'Press Play'
Sarah Sweeney
Vice President of Talk Programming, KCRW
Anna Scott
Former KCRW Housing and Homelessness Reporter
Jolie Myers
Managing Producer, 'Press Play'
Ian Purkayastha
Author, "Truffle Boy: My Unexpected Journey Through the Exotic Food Underground.”

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Press Play with Madeleine Brand

Truffles: Bling of the culinary world has a dark side

A few years ago, one 3.3 pound truffle sold for $330,000. High prices mean that the industry is filled with fraud and corruption. Ian Purkayastha has been steeped in it since he was a teenager. Now at 24, he’s one of the most sought-after importers of truffles.

Share

Press Play with Madeleine Brand

Truffles: Bling of the culinary world has a dark side

A few years ago, one 3.3 pound truffle sold for $330,000. High prices mean that the industry is filled with fraud and corruption. Ian Purkayastha has been steeped in it since he was a teenager. Now at 24, he’s one of the most sought-after importers of truffles.

Share