and sturgeon caviar has been in abundance periodically, used no different than ketchup
its really a great example of how people assign importance to things based on their price or scarcity, and that has nothing to do with anything related to the uniqueness or peculiarity of taste
Sort of goes hand in hand though? If something's less attainable, it becomes more unique and peculiar, only natural to crave it or treat it as something special.
sort of, I respect supply and demand more than most, I am recognizing that its not currently due to current insatiable demand created by its taste but only constrained supply due to prior demand and likely supply mismanagement.
There are many kinds of fish which are used to make caviar. Some are more affordable than others:
https://www.gourmetfoodstore.com/caviar/
Myself, I really want to give Paddlefish a try. Strange beasts!