Why are some people secretive about their recipes?

Question

Unless you own a restaurant and make a profit by being the only one who knows the recipe of a certain meal, why prevent other people from knowing the recipe and being able to enjoy the meal too? I'm just curious as to why some people are so secretive about their recipes, especially family recipes.

Answer 1

My mother in law does that. I think she wants everyone to think she is the only one who can do it. I share my recipes with everyone who asks and I even give them my tips I learned from experimenting so they don't have to.

Answer 2

Some people think that if they keep anything (or part) a secret then it will be more desirable. That and possibly a fear that someone else will make money on their idea/recipe.
My ex mother in law will freely give our recipes except they never taste like what she made because she will delete or reduce a key ingredient.
I figured out how to make a casserole that she was famous for better because she didn't give me the correct recipe. Boy was she mad!!!

Answer 3

They want people to think only they can make it the best as in "my wife makes the best brownies!" If they share the recipe with everyone they know, people won't say that any more.

Answer 4

It is pretty odd. I will glady give people recipes if they ask...I mean even pro chefs on the foodnetwork give their recipes away. Cooking good food shouldn't be so selfish, especially when someone loves what you made..its a compliment!

Answer 5

Because it's theirs, like it's something special and exclusive to them. If everybody has it and can make it then it's not so special any more. A little selfish, yes, but I can see the point.

Answer 6

I can't tell you that either or I'd have to kill ya... sorry!! LOL!!! I guess they don't want any else to make it as good.