African food is taking over kitchens around the world — from London’s bustling markets to New York’s African stores. The African diaspora, along with adventurous food lovers abroad, are creating massive demand for authentic African food products. For farmers, traders, and exporters, this is a golden opportunity to tap into profitable markets.
In this post, we’ll explore the Top 10 African food products that sell the fastest in the US and UK, and how you can benefit from this trend.
1. Palm Oil
Palm oil is a staple for African cooking, especially for dishes like egusi soup and jollof rice. In the US and UK, the demand is driven by Nigerians, Ghanaians, and other West Africans craving home flavors. Organic, unrefined palm oil fetches premium prices abroad.
2. Cassava Products (Garri, Fufu, Cassava Flour)
Garri and fufu are household favorites for many Africans abroad. Cassava flour is also gaining popularity as a gluten-free alternative, appealing to health-conscious non-Africans.
3. Dried Fish & Stockfish
From Nigeria to Norway, dried fish is big business. African communities abroad pay extra for high-quality dried fish, making it one of the most lucrative exports.
4. Beans (Brown Beans, Black-eyed Peas)
Nigerian brown beans are a hot commodity abroad, used for making moi-moi and akara. Diaspora Africans will pay more for the taste of home.
5. Yam & Yam Flour (Elubo)
Pounded yam lovers abroad keep yam demand high. Yam flour is also in high demand because it’s easier to transport and store.
6. Spices & Seasonings (Suya Spice, Ogbono, Egusi Seeds)
African spices are in high demand for authentic dishes. Ogbono and egusi seeds are especially popular in the diaspora market.
7. Shea Butter
Beyond food, shea butter is loved for skincare. The US and UK markets are booming for organic African shea butter products.
8. Peppers (Scotch Bonnet, Cameroon Pepper)
Fresh and dried peppers are in high demand in African and Caribbean communities abroad. Farmers who grow and export them can earn big.
9. Groundnuts (Peanuts) & Groundnut Oil
Peanuts are popular both for snacking and cooking. Groundnut oil also has a strong market, especially among health-conscious buyers.
10. Plantain Products (Chips, Flour)
Plantain chips are one of the easiest African snacks to sell abroad. Plantain flour is also gaining ground for gluten-free recipes.
Tips for Selling to the US & UK Markets
- Meet export standards: Ensure proper packaging, labeling, and quality control.
- Target African and Caribbean stores: They are your fastest entry points into these markets.
- Leverage online platforms: Websites like Amazon, eBay, and Etsy can connect you directly with buyers.
Moral of the Day
🌍 The world is hungry for Africa’s natural taste — if you package it right, your harvest can feed nations and your pockets.