Ugwu

What It Is

Ugwu, also known as Fluted Pumpkin Leaf, is a popular green leafy vegetable cultivated widely in West Africa, especially Nigeria. Its scientific name is Telfairia occidentalis. Ugwu is highly nutritious and is a staple in many African dishes. It is prized for its high iron, vitamins (A, C, and E), calcium, and antioxidant content.

What Export of It Is

Exporting Ugwu involves harvesting the leaves in optimal condition, preserving their freshness (through drying or freezing), packaging to international food standards, and shipping to African food markets abroad—especially in the UK, USA, Canada, and Europe where there’s high demand among the African diaspora.

✅ Export Form

Ugwu can be exported in the following forms:

  • Fresh (air-freighted) – packed in breathable boxes and shipped within 24–72 hours.

  • Dried (most common) – sun or machine dried, sorted, and vacuum packed.

  • Frozen (IQF method) – preserved to retain texture and nutrients.

Packaging Options

  • Fresh: 1kg to 5kg aerated cartons or perforated crates

  • Dried: 100g, 250g, 500g, and 1kg vacuum-sealed pouches

  • Frozen: 250g – 1kg packs in insulated cold-chain boxes

Each pack is:

  • Labeled with product name, weight, origin (Nigeria), packaging & expiry date

  • Compliant with international food labeling regulations

UK & Global Market Demand

There’s consistent demand for Ugwu in:

  • African stores in the UK, USA, Canada & Europe

  • Restaurants that serve African cuisine

  • Afro-Caribbean distributors and wholesalers

The dried form has higher shelf life and lower logistics cost, making it ideal for bulk exports.

Nutritional Value per 100g (Fresh)

  • Energy: 60 kcal

  • Protein: 4g

  • Iron: 3.2 mg

  • Calcium: 150 mg

  • Vitamin A: 9,000 IU

  • Vitamin C: 70 mg

  • Fiber: 3.5g

Industrial Uses

Though primarily for consumption, Ugwu also finds use in:

  • Nutraceuticals: For its antioxidant and blood-boosting properties

  • Herbal supplements and green juice powders

HS Code

  • 07099900 – Other vegetables, fresh or chilled (Ugwu fresh)

  • 07129090 – Dried vegetables, whole/cut/sliced (Ugwu dried)

Export Requirements

  • NAFDAC food registration (for dried/frozen)

  • Phytosanitary certificate (for fresh)

  • NEPC Export Certificate

  • FDA/USDA or UK FSA compliance (based on destination)

  • Proper drying and moisture control (not more than 12%)

  • Clean, contamination-free packaging

  • Cold chain for frozen shipments

Target Markets

  • United Kingdom

  • United States

  • Canada

  • Germany

  • Italy

  • Netherlands

  • France

  • UAE (for Nigerian diaspora)

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