Buying caviar in the Netherlands may at first seem simple: a quick search, clicking on a webshop and placing an order. But in practice, many consumers experience that it is far more complex. How can you be sure that you are dealing with real sturgeon caviar and not a cheap imitation? How can you assess whether the caviar is fresh and has been stored under the right conditions? And why do prices differ so much between various suppliers in the Netherlands?
Anyone who orders caviar in the Netherlands without knowledge or reliable information runs the risk of paying a lot for mediocre quality or even imitations that do not provide the luxurious experience you expect. Moreover, origin and sustainability are becoming increasingly important for conscious consumers in the Netherlands: after all, you want to be certain that the sturgeon has been raised responsibly and that the producer is transparent about the origin of the caviar. These uncertainties make choosing the right supplier crucial.
That is why, in this guide, we take you through everything you need to know about buying caviar in the Netherlands. From what caviar actually is and how it is harvested, to how to store it and how to recognize imitation. This way, as a consumer in the Netherlands, you can make a confident choice and know that with Carbon Caviar you are guaranteed to choose luxury, reliability and top quality.
What exactly is caviar?
Caviar consists of the unfertilized eggs of the sturgeon, a fish that has been seen since ancient times as a symbol of luxury and refinement. These eggs are carefully harvested, washed and lightly salted according to the traditional malossol method, in which only a minimal amount of salt is added to preserve the delicate flavor. Only the eggs of the sturgeon may officially bear the name “caviar”; other fish roe such as salmon or trout eggs fall under imitation.
The taste of caviar can vary greatly depending on the type of sturgeon: from the soft, buttery flavor of Beluga to the nutty and complex tones of Oscietra. The texture, color and size of the pearls all play a role in the experience. For those who wish to delve further into this topic, we refer to our separate blog “What exactly is caviar?”, in which we discuss in detail the history, varieties and flavor profiles of caviar in the Netherlands.
Shelf life and storage of caviar
Caviar is an exclusive product that is extremely delicate and therefore must be stored carefully. Unopened, a tin or jar of caviar can remain good for several weeks, provided it is continuously kept refrigerated between 0 and 4 °C. After opening, the shelf life is very limited: the caviar must then be consumed within 24 to 48 hours to optimally preserve its flavor and texture.
It is important to emphasize that caviar should never be stored in the freezer. Freezing damages the delicate structure of the pearls and spoils the luxurious experience. For anyone ordering caviar in the Netherlands, it is therefore essential to place the delivery directly in the refrigerator and to serve the caviar at the moment it is at its best. For more practical tips, read our detailed blog: Caviar shelf life and storage.
Real caviar vs imitation caviar
In addition to genuine sturgeon caviar, there are various alternatives on the market, such as salmon roe, trout roe, or even plant-based variants made from seaweed. Although these products sometimes look similar to caviar, they lack the rich taste, texture and nutritional value that make true sturgeon caviar unique. For consumers buying caviar in the Netherlands, it is therefore important to know how to recognize the difference.
Real caviar has a natural, pearly sheen, loose and firm grains, and a creamy, delicate taste. Imitation caviar, on the other hand, is often dull in color, saltier in taste and less refined in texture. Because the prices of imitation products are often significantly lower, they can be tempting, but the experience is incomparable to real caviar. Read more about this difference in our blog “Real caviar vs imitation caviar,” so you can make the right choice when buying or ordering caviar in the Netherlands.
Types of caviar at Carbon Caviar
At Carbon Caviar we present an extensive assortment of carefully selected caviar varieties, each with a unique flavor profile and presentation:
Beluga Huso Huso
Our Beluga Huso Huso has large, pearly grains with a creamy, buttery flavor that melts in the mouth. The “king of caviar” is rare and luxurious. The grains are soft and have a refined aftertaste that lingers. Perfect for pure enjoyment without strong accompanying flavors. All our caviar is delivered chilled for optimal freshness and preservation of quality.
Impérial Gold
Our Impérial Gold is a golden-colored caviar with a rich, smooth taste and light nutty notes. The grains have an elegant shine and instantly give dishes a luxurious appearance. Ideal for amuse-bouches and refined appetizers. The aftertaste is subtle and silky smooth.
Russian Oscietra Royal
Oscietra is known for its complex, nutty flavor and amber-colored grains. The balance between firmness and creaminess makes this caviar highly versatile. Ideal for pairing with scrambled eggs, blinis or refined fish dishes. Each bite offers an elegant, layered flavor experience. Our Oscietra Royal is always carefully classified as Grade 1.
Kaluga Royal Amur
This caviar has large, full pearls with a distinct, silky texture. The taste is powerful, with buttery and sea-salt notes that linger. Perfect for dinners where caviar takes center stage. Kaluga combines robustness with refinement. We deliver our Kaluga directly chilled and fully traceable.
Almas Caviar
One of the most exclusive and rare varieties, recognizable by its light golden color. The flavor is extremely refined, with a delicate softness that slowly unfolds. This caviar is often served at the most special occasions. Due to its exclusivity, Almas belongs among the most expensive varieties.
Acipenser Classic
An accessible yet high-quality variant, ideal for getting acquainted with caviar. The grains are medium-sized, stable and creamy in flavor. Perfect for parties and receptions. Acipenser Classic combines affordability with genuine quality.
How much does caviar cost in the Netherlands?
The price of caviar varies greatly: Beluga and Almas belong to the most expensive varieties, while Oscietra and Acipenser Classic are more accessible. The price depends on rarity, grain size and production method. At Carbon Caviar you will find offerings in several price ranges, so there is always a suitable option. Transparent pricing per gram makes comparison easier, so you know you are paying fairly for the quality you receive. Not sure yet which type of caviar suits you best? Then read our blog post about which caviar you should buy.
How is caviar harvested and where does it come from?
Harvesting caviar is a delicate process that requires a great deal of time, craftsmanship and patience. Sturgeons often need ten years or more before they produce ripe eggs suitable for consumption. During harvesting, the eggs are handled with extreme care—separated, rinsed and sieved—after which they are salted to optimally preserve their flavor and structure. This artisanal process largely determines the quality of the final caviar.
Carbon Caviar works exclusively with stress-free, mature sturgeons from the pure waters of the Amur River and the Caspian Sea, allowing the eggs to develop a fuller, more authentic flavor profile. The breeding process follows ecological, animal-friendly principles (wild-farmed / natural farming). For a detailed description of the harvesting process, read our blog post “How is caviar harvested?”.
Would you like to know more about where our caviar comes from? Then read our blog post “Where does caviar come from?”.
Why choose Carbon Caviar?
At Carbon Caviar we guarantee Grade 1 quality, meaning that with us you will find only the very best sturgeon caviar. We attach great importance to transparency: with every batch you receive clear origin information, so you know exactly what you are eating. In addition, we ensure fast delivery; chilled shipping within 1–2 days throughout the Netherlands is standard. Finally, we work exclusively with farms committed to sustainability and animal-friendly methods. This way, we offer caviar lovers in the Netherlands not only luxury, but also complete certainty, trust and consistent quality.
View our assortment and order directly from our exclusive selection!
Is caviar healthy?
Yes, caviar is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins B12, A and D, and minerals such as selenium and iron. These nutrients support heart health, brain function and the immune system. A small portion already makes a valuable contribution to your daily nutritional needs. Although caviar contains salt, in moderate amounts it is a nutritious addition. It is therefore not only a luxury product but also a source of health. Would you like to know more about this? Then read our blog post about caviar and health benefits.
How do you serve caviar?
Always serve caviar chilled and use a mother-of-pearl or plastic spoon so as not to affect the taste. Combine with neutral accompaniments such as blinis or toast, possibly with a touch of crème fraîche. Keep portions small, 10 to 30 grams per person is usually sufficient. Ensure a stylish presentation on ice or a chilled plate.
Reliability and customer stories
Carbon Caviar supplies top chefs and renowned restaurants both domestically and abroad. Our customers appreciate the consistent quality, reliable delivery and transparency. Batch numbers, traceability and HACCP procedures guarantee food safety. Customer reviews confirm that orders arrive chilled and in perfect condition.
Order our caviar in the Netherlands today
Would you like to order real caviar from a reliable Dutch supplier? Discover our assortment of Beluga, Imperial Gold, Oscietra Royal, Kaluga Amur, Almas and Acipenser Classic. Order easily through our webshop and benefit from chilled shipping and top-tier service. Buying caviar in the Netherlands is safe with Carbon Caviar.
View our assortment and order directly!
Frequently Asked Questions about buying caviar in the Netherlands
Where can I buy caviar in the Netherlands?
The best choice is with specialized suppliers such as Carbon Caviar in Zoetermeer. We supply only Grade 1 sturgeon caviar and ensure fast, chilled delivery within 1–2 days throughout the Netherlands. Ordering caviar online with us is safe and transparent, with clear origin information for every batch.
Order directly from our webshop with this link!
How do I know if caviar is real and not imitation?
Real caviar comes exclusively from the sturgeon and has shiny, loose grains with a creamy flavor. Imitation caviar such as salmon roe lacks this quality. Always check for certifications, origin information and grade classification. At Carbon Caviar you are guaranteed authentic sturgeon caviar. Read more in our blog post “Real caviar vs imitation caviar.”
How long does caviar stay good?
After opening, the contents must be consumed within 24 to 48 hours for the best taste and texture. Always store caviar in the coldest part of the refrigerator and never in the freezer. Anyone buying caviar in the Netherlands should therefore plan for timely consumption. Read more in our blog post about caviar shelf life.
Is caviar healthy to eat?
Caviar is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins B12, A and D, and minerals such as selenium and iron. This makes it nutritious for the heart, brain and immune system. It does contain salt, so enjoy in moderation. Even a small portion already provides benefits. Read more in our blog post about the health benefits of caviar.
Can I order caviar online in the Netherlands?
Yes, more and more enthusiasts are choosing the convenience of online ordering. At Carbon Caviar you can order safely and receive your caviar chilled at home. View our assortment directly and have our caviar delivered to your door!
Order our caviar in the Netherlands today
Would you like to order real caviar from a reliable Dutch supplier? Discover our assortment of Beluga, Imperial Gold, Oscietra Royal, Kaluga Amur, Almas and Acipenser Classic. Order easily through our webshop and benefit from chilled shipping and top-tier service. Buying caviar in the Netherlands is safe with Carbon Caviar.
View our assortment and order directly!
Leave a comment
This site is protected by hCaptcha and the hCaptcha Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.