yam flour

Yam Flour Export

Product Overview

Yam Flour, also known as Elubo in West Africa, is a finely milled flour made from dried yam tubers. It is a staple in Nigerian cuisine and widely used to prepare amala, a smooth and stretchy dough-like food typically served with soups such as egusi, ewedu, or ogbono.

Yam flour is convenient, easy to cook, and has a long shelf life, making it highly suitable for both domestic use and international export. Its growing popularity among African diaspora communities and health-conscious consumers has increased its global demand.


Forms & Packaging for Export

Yam flour can be exported in several forms:

  1. White Yam Flour: Made from peeled, dried white yam tubers.

  2. Fresh Yam Flour: Made from unfermented dried yam.

  3. Blended Yam Flour: Combined with cassava or plantain flour for texture modification.

Standard Export Packaging:

  • 25–50 kg woven polypropylene bags (bulk export)

  • 10–20 kg jute or kraft paper bags

  • 500g – 1kg vacuum-sealed retail packs

  • Custom packaging for supermarkets and private labeling


Quality Specifications

Parameter Standard Specification
Moisture Content ≤ 12%
Granule Size Fine and uniform
Color Cream to light yellow
Odor & Taste Characteristic yam aroma, free from mold or off-flavors
Purity Free from stones, fibers, or foreign matter
Shelf Life 12–18 months if stored properly
Microbial Limit Total Plate Count ≤ 10³ CFU/g, Yeast & Mold ≤ 10² CFU/g

Nutritional Value

Yam flour provides:

  • Carbohydrates: 80–85% (primary energy source)

  • Protein: 1–2%

  • Fiber: 2–3%

  • Vitamins & Minerals: Vitamin C, Potassium, Calcium, and small amounts of B-complex vitamins

Yam flour is naturally gluten-free and suitable for a variety of diets.


Export Requirements

  1. Phytosanitary Certificate: Confirms the flour is free from contaminants and pests.

  2. Food Safety Compliance: Must meet EU, FDA (USA), or other international standards.

  3. Customs Documentation: Commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, and bill of lading.

  4. Labeling Requirements: Include type, weight, production date, and best-before date.

  5. Quality Assurance: Third-party inspection/testing may be required for bulk shipments.


Uses of Yam Flour

  • Culinary: Preparation of amala or yam-based porridges.

  • Retail: Packaged for supermarkets, ethnic stores, and online marketplaces.

  • Industrial: Ingredient in processed foods, ready-to-cook yam products, or flour blends.


Export Market Demand

Yam flour has strong demand in:

  • United States & Canada: African diaspora communities and ethnic grocery stores.

  • United Kingdom & Europe: Specialty African and Caribbean food markets.

  • Middle East & Asia: Niche ethnic and health-conscious food markets.


Storage & Shelf Life

  • Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, and ventilated area. Avoid moisture and direct sunlight.

  • Shelf Life: 12–18 months when properly packaged and stored.


Advantages of Exporting Yam Flour

  • High demand among African diaspora communities worldwide.

  • Long shelf life and easy storage.

  • Gluten-free, convenient, and versatile product.

  • Suitable for bulk and retail markets.


HS Code for Export: 11081200 (Flours of roots or tubers, including yam flour)


Contact Topnoch Export

Topnoch Export Limited

For inquiries, pricing, and bulk orders, contact Topnoch Export directly.