Quote: "Chile, they say, is the soul of the Mexicans -- a nutrient, a medicine, a drug, a comfort. For many Mexicans, if it were not for the existence of chile, their national identity would begin to disappear." (Arturo Lomeli, author of "El Chile y Otros Picantes")
Some say he is not only talking about the consumption of chile peppers in Mexico, but also the growing, the nurturing, and the living with the chile plant almost as members of the same family. Some also say the disappearance of the soul of Mexico is beginning because of the importation and sales of chiles from China.
Chinese de Arbol chiles, Chinese anchos and other popular Mexican varieties are finding their way to the main market in Mexico City. Some vendors are now reporting that the Chinese chiles, because of a lower price, are outselling homegrown chiles two to one.
Not only are imports from China putting pressure on Mexican chile farmers, they are causing ripple effects. Partially as a result of the chiles from China, imports of Mexican chiles into the U.S. have increased dramatically putting U.S. chile farmers under similar pressure.
Probably since the very early days of man, there has been a global spice trade, and it continues today. The origin of the spices may change, but it appears that global demand never will. Personally, I'm thankful for that. I would rather have a Chinese or Mexican chile than no chile. How about you?
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