Dessert crops are defined as types of crops or plants that are not (or historically were not) used in everyday consumption. They are used for "dessert," which is a loose definition for special occasions, for use by the elite, or for pleasure rather than sustenance.[1]

Some examples of such crops in the past are coffee, sugar, tea, tobacco and cocoa. While these crops are more of everyday staples in modern times, a few centuries ago this was not the case. They were regarded as extravagances, as "sinful" indulgences, or even instruments of the Devil.[2]

References edit

  1. ^ Mintz, Sidney W. "Time, Sugar, and Sweetness." Food and Culture: A Reader. Eds. Carole Counihan and Penny van Esterik. New York: Routledge, 1997.
  2. ^ Lambert, Tim. "A BRIEF HISTORY OF DESSERTS AND PUDDINGS". Local Histories. Retrieved 13 February 2014.