What Is the Difference Between Osetra and Beluga Caviar?

Most professional caviar connoisseurs and casual caviar enjoyers agree that Osetra (also Ossetra) and Beluga caviar are the best and most sought-after caviar types. Along with Sevruga caviar, of course. With that being said, many people may be curious to know one thing.

What is the difference between Osetra and Beluga caviar?

Apart from the taste, size, and color distinctions, the main difference between Osetra and Beluga caviar revolves around the availability and price of each caviar type. Beluga caviar is rarer and significantly more expensive. 

As I already mentioned, each type of caviar has distinct qualities that make them unique. In today’s post, I will go over some intriguing differences between Osetra and Beluga. I will do my best to answer some questions you might have. Maybe you will learn a thing or two about each caviar type!

What Is the Main Difference Between Osetra and Beluga Caviar?

Although both caviar types belong to high-quality roe called sturgeon roe, they aren’t as similar as they may seem. I mentioned two key differences that make each kind of caviar unique. These are availability and price.

The low number and slow reproduction rate of Beluga sturgeons make Beluga caviar extremely rare. It has become so bad that products made from Beluga sturgeon roe have been banned in the United States since 2005.

Fortunately, the kinds of fish, which Osetra caviar comes from, aren’t endangered and can be found in many habitats worldwide, thanks to their adaptability. 

This is why Beluga caviar is the most expensive type of caviar, unlike red caviar, which is common and quite affordable. The market price of Beluga caviar ranges from $7,000 to $10,000 per 1 kg (2.2 lb) or $200–$300 per ounce, while Osetra caviar costs $2,500 to $3,500 per 1 kg (2.2 lb) or $75-$100 per ounce. 

What Do Beluga and Osetra Caviar Taste Like?

Beluga caviar has a subtle nutty flavor and is creamy, buttery, and slightly salty. In comparison, Osetra caviar shares a similar nutty and creamy taste complemented by some sea flavors. 

Interestingly, the roe of Beluga has a slightly milder flavor compared to Osetra.

Osetra or Beluga Caviar: Which One Is Bigger?

Although the roe of Osetra sturgeons is a lot smaller than Beluga, interestingly enough, the big pea-sized Beluga pearls are way more delicate. 

What Color Are Osetra and Beluga Caviar?

Osetra is known for its incredible variety in color, which has to do with its ability to adapt. It ranges from golden to brown.  

Beluga caviar ranges from pale-silver gray to black. 

Can I Get Osetra and Beluga Caviar Online?

You can definitely find yourself Osetra caviar online, although this may not the case with Beluga caviar, which the US government has prohibited. I advise you to do extensive research before ordering caviar online. More so when ordering caviar in the Whole Foods market. 

Conclusion

Due to how uncommon Beluga caviar is, it is considered the best type of caviar out of the two. Regardless of their distinct characteristics, Osetra and Beluga caviar are both luxurious delicacies that you should try out!