US: High demand for pecan truffles

Tim Brenneman, a University of Georgia plant pathologist based in Tifton has researched pecan truffl…

Tim Brenneman, a University of Georgia plant pathologist based in Tifton has researched pecan truffles since he discovered them in the late 1980s.

Brenneman has said "Right now the main limitation for truffles is lack of consistent availability" as they're underground therefore, hard to find. "We're doing research on producing truffles more consistently by inoculating trees with the fungus, and then, when you plant the trees, it may take a while, but they will eventually start growing truffles on their roots."

Using search dogs is the latest trend in finding truffles. Truffle dogs have made it easier for farmers to market truffles and net a profitable venture.

There is high demand for truffles, especially from chefs, but there are only a few people marketing truffles and not a large supply.

While European truffles are one of the worlds most expensive foods which can cost thousands of dollars for a pound, Brenneman said one pound of truffles grown in Georgia can sell from only $200 to $300.