A jar of Heinz's limited edition 'ketchup caviar' has appeared on eBay with a 'buy it now' price of $399 (£302). The product, which consists of tiny pearls of tomato sauce resembling fish roe, was released to mark Heinz's 150th anniversary.
The upmarket take on the classic burger condiment has proved highly sought after, with fans turning to online auction sites to acquire the rare item. The US-based seller describes the 1.8 oz jar as 'so rare, you can't find them in stores' and includes the original Heinz packaging.
Heinz has kept the exact manufacturing process secret, but a behind-the-scenes video suggests the ketchup pearls are created by dripping fresh tomato sauce into a clear liquid, possibly similar to brine used for real caviar. The spheres are designed to burst in the mouth.
In the UK, the 150 jars produced were only available via a competition, leaving collectors and ketchup enthusiasts to seek alternative sources. The product will also be served at an exclusive Valentine's Day breakfast at Fortnum & Mason in London.
