Garri Export – CEEMOF NIGERIA LTD

What It Is

Garri is one of the most popular staple foods in West Africa, particularly in Nigeria. It is a granular flour made from cassava tubers (Manihot esculenta), which undergoes fermentation, dewatering, and roasting. The result is a dry, crispy, and slightly sour product with a long shelf life, making it a highly sought-after food both locally and internationally.

Nutritional Value

Rich in carbohydrates (energy food).
Provides dietary fiber, aiding digestion.
Contains small amounts of protein, calcium, iron, and vitamin C (depending on processing).
Low in fat and cholesterol.

Varieties

Garri comes in different types based on color, grain size, and processing methods:

White Garri – Made without palm oil, commonly consumed in the western and northern parts of Nigeria.
Yellow Garri – Produced by adding palm oil during processing, common in the eastern region.
Ijebu Garri – A finer, very sour garri variety from the Yoruba region.
Delta Garri (Starch Garri) – Coarser and less fermented, often used for special delicacies.

Uses

Garri is highly versatile and can be prepared in different ways:

Soaked Garri (Cold Cereal Form): Mixed with cold water, sugar, milk, groundnut, or coconut, making a refreshing meal.
Eba (Hot Swallow): Stirred into hot water until it forms a smooth, dough-like paste eaten with soups like egusi, ogbono, or vegetable soup.
Industrial Uses: Garri is also being explored in food processing industries for making snacks, flour mixes, and instant meal packs.

Packaging for Export

Export-ready garri is usually packaged in moisture-proof, airtight, and hygienic bags or containers to prevent spoilage.
Common export packaging includes polypropylene bags, PET jars, or laminated pouches ranging from 1kg, 2kg, 5kg, 10kg, up to 50kg.
Vacuum-sealed packaging is preferred in international markets to maintain freshness and prevent mold growth.

Export Specifications

Moisture Content: Maximum 12%
Hydrocyanic Acid (HCN): Below 10 mg/kg
Whiteness/Color: Must meet buyer requirements (white or yellow).
Particle Size: Fine, medium, or coarse (depending on buyer preference).
Shelf Life: 6–12 months if properly packaged and stored in a cool, dry place.

Major Export Destinations

United Kingdom
United States
Canada
Germany
Netherlands
France
Middle East countries with high African diaspora populations

Market Demand

The demand for garri in the international market is driven largely by the African diaspora who consume it as a traditional food. Increasingly, it is also gaining attention among non-Africans as an alternative gluten-free flour and energy-rich food.