The Cost of Cucumber
Last Updated on August 30, 2021 | Written by CPA Alec Pow
First Published on August 30, 2021 | Content Reviewed by 
CFA Alexander Popivker
Cucumber is native to South Asia, where it was used in food over 10,000 years ago. In ancient Egypt, cucumbers were popular for the cool drink obtained by fermenting them, and in the Roman Empire, Emperor Tiberius appreciated them so much that he had slaves who made sure to turn the cucumbers periodically to enjoy as much sunlight as possible.
With a water content of over 90%, cucumbers are excellent for hydrating and detoxifying the body. But they also have dozens of other health benefits, thanks to antioxidants and vitamins.
How much does a cucumber cost?
The price you may pay for cucumbers is influenced by factors like assortment, the place you live, and where you purchase it from, but also the time of the year.
Kirby cucumbers can cost between $0.60 and $1.80 per pound, while seedless long varieties will typically be priced around the same price at roughly $0.85 to $1.50 each.
The cost of a pound of Persian cucumber will usually be somewhere between $1.70 and $2.50.
For example, a 16-ounce package of five to six cucumbers at Trader Joe’s retail for $2.50 or so.
Organic cucumbers are going to be the more expensive, which will cost you about $2 to $2.50 per pound.
Currently, the most expensive are baby cucumbers with a price of $3.50 per pound.
Grocery stores sell cucumbers for prices from $0.50 to $3 each, but most of them are around the range of about $1 per cucumber.
You might also like our articles about the cost of asparagus, spinach, or zucchini.
The price of cucumbers varies widely depending on where the produce is sourced, but a rough estimate would be $0.50-$1.70 per cucumber and sometimes even cheaper for Asian-sourced.
Factor influencing the price
Time of the year
Cucumbers are a staple for many dishes, but they can be expensive depending on the time of year. During the winter months, cucumber prices tend to go up due to less availability and increased demand in colder weather climates.
Size
The price of cucumber may be influenced by its size. If the grocery stores are going to charge by the pound, sometimes it can be more expensive than you think. However, most stores will charge by cucumbers rather than pounds.
Type
Some cucumbers are more expensive than others. This is due to the differences between organic and non-organic types, and the actual type of cucumber itself which make a big difference in pricing.
Interesting things about cucumber
Relative to watermelon
Cucumbers are part of the Cucurbitaceae family, along with watermelon, zucchini, and squash.
Different colors
Cucumbers can have different sizes, shapes, even colors. They are not only green but also white, yellow, or orange.
Hydration and more
Cucumbers contain more than 95% water. Half a cup of cucumber slices has only 8 calories and provides 10% of the daily requirement of vitamin K, important for bone health. The nutrients it contains are mainly stored in its shell, where we also find most of vitamin C, A, and vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5, B6.
Relaxation for skin and eyes
Cucumber slices are placed on the eyes to reduce swelling due to the content of water and caffeic acid, which is why they are so popular in facial treatments.
Refresh your breath
Problems with bad breath? Cucumbers solve the problem! Take a slice of cucumber and press for 30 seconds on the palate. Cucumber phytonutrients eliminate bacteria that cause unpleasant odors.
Invigorating
After an exhausting day, cucumbers (eaten in shell) provide extra energy, providing the necessary B-complex vitamins and electrolytes needed to restore the body.
Diet help for weight loss
Cucumbers contain soluble and insoluble fiber, which give a feeling of satiety, regulate intestinal transit, and help lower LDL cholesterol. Their diuretic ability helps maintain optimal weight and regulate blood pressure.
Important things to consider
Fresh cucumbers are available in stores throughout the year. Different varieties are available depending on the type of region. In the store, buy the freshest ones, which have a bright green color, firm and solid in texture. Look for stains, cuts, or cracks that can be found on its surface. Don’t buy overripe or yellow cucumbers, as they tend to contain more insoluble fiber and ripe seeds. Also, avoid those with wrinkled heads as these indicate old harvesting and can be dehydrated. Opt for organically grown products because they have a richer flavor and are richer in nutrients.
To store them, keep them at room temperature for a day or two, but they are best kept inside the refrigerator at a high relative humidity if you want them to stay fresh for several days.
Whether you eat it with or without peel, cucumber is an extraordinary vegetable. It can be prepared on the grill, in salads with other vegetables, or why not, pickled, then served as a salad with steaks.
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