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Sugar drove the colonial sugar trade and was a main staple of the triangular trade, contributing to the expansion of European empires and slavery.

Soybeans have impacted agriculture and diets globally, especially with the rise of vegetarianism and Asian cuisines worldwide.

Originally believed to be poisonous, the tomato became integral to Italian cuisine and subsequently spread in popularity worldwide.

The codfish trade drove exploration and settlement in the New World, and cod wars have been fought over its fishing rights.

Cassava is a vital crop in the tropics and has been a food security crop due to its drought tolerance.

The apple symbolizes many things in different cultures and religions; it also played a role in the spread of colonists in America.

Sorghum has been an important crop for societies in arid climates and greatly impacts food security in parts of Africa and Asia.

Salt has been an essential element in food preservation and has influenced trade routes and city growth throughout history.

The potato led to agricultural and population booms in Europe and was a primary factor in the Irish Potato Famine.

Pumpkins were an important Native American crop and became symbolic of the American harvest and Thanksgiving.

Cheese production allowed humans to store dairy for extended periods, making it influential in food storage practices.

The pursuit of spices such as black pepper and cinnamon fueled exploration and trade, leading to Europe's Age of Discovery.

Chili peppers spread worldwide after Columbus, influencing global cuisines and spicing up diets.

Chocolate, originally a luxury drink for the Aztecs, became popular in Europe and led to a new global industry.

Vanilla has influenced global trade since its value was recognized outside of Mexico, becoming the world's most popular flavor.

The domestication of the pig and consumption of pork has cultural significance, and in some societies, dietary taboos.

Tea played a central role in international relations and colonial policies, such as the Opium Wars and the Boston Tea Party.

Corn became a staple crop in many cultures and its cultivation was integral to Native American society and later the American agricultural economy.

Bread, one of the oldest artificial foods, has been a symbol of sustenance and life throughout many cultures and religions.

Coffee spurred social changes, forming coffee house culture and impacting the global economy with its trade.

The cultivation of wheat allowed for the development of sedentary societies and has been a staple in many cultures.

Alcohol has played a central role in social rituals, economies, and even medicine throughout history.

Black pepper was a driving force behind the spice trade and European exploration of the world.

As a staple in many countries, rice has influenced population growth, economies, and daily life, especially in Asia.

The most expensive spice in the world, saffron, has colored both food and fabric, becoming a symbol of wealth and opulence.

Olive oil has been a vital commodity in the Mediterranean, significant to economies, health, and as a symbol of peace and wisdom.

Honey has been valued not only as a sweetener but also for its medicinal properties, playing a part in both cuisine and medical treatments.

Cinnamon influenced global trade, particularly between the ancient world and the Far East, and was at times more valuable than gold.