The Association of Vanilla Exporters of Uganda Limited (VANEX), an association representing the Ugandan vanilla industry, called upon the food and beverage industry to diversify its vanilla sourcing for greater supply chain resilience. It also noted the unique benefits of using vanilla from Uganda.
 
“Government interference, weather events, and other unexpected impacts can all affect the vanilla supply chain,” said Prossy Tummushabe, executive director of VANEX. “Food and beverage brands and chefs can stabilize their supply and increase business flexibility by sourcing vanilla from multiple countries of origin.”
 
Ugandan vanilla is on par with Madagascar-sourced vanilla, has a unique flavor profile, is grown in an ideal climate, and is subject to less restrictive regulations, VANEX reported.
 
There is no discernible difference in quality compared to Madagascar-sourced vanilla, and comes with a vanillin content of up tot 4.5%, contributing to a bold flavor with notes of cacao and leather from nutrient-rich soil.
 
Ugandan vanilla is grown sustainably without the use of pesticides, fungicides, tilling, or slash-and-burn practices.
 
Uganda is also the only place on earth which experiences two vanilla crops per year, and its landlocked geography shields crops from destructive weather events. Finally, the Ugandan government allows for open trade without price interference.
 
“Diversifying the country of origin for vanilla isn’t top of mind for most brands because they haven’t experienced a disruption yet, but expanding to multiple sources is a great way to future-proof supply,” said Craig Nielsen, vice president of sustainability for Nielsen-Massey Vanillas, a U.S.-based flavor house. “Uganda isn’t as well-known in the vanilla industry yet, but it’s emerging as a world-class source.”
 
Ugandan vanilla exporters can meet volumes and specifications required by customers of all sizes, VANEX reported.
 
“Uganda exported 250 metric tons of vanilla in 2022 and is positioned to meet increased demand as the market requires,” said Abubaker Mulindwa, managing director of Natural Extract Industries, Uganda Ltd. “Plus, Ugandan vanilla is available in a variety of grades and specifications, including Organic Certified, Fairtrade Certified, Rainforest Alliance Certified, HACCP Certified, and more.”
 
Uganda’s vanilla industry collaborates with global organizations, including VANEX, the Ugandan Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries, Catholic Relief Services, the Sustainable Vanilla Initiative, and the United States Department of Agriculture.
 
VANEX recently launched a new website, VanillaFromUganda.com, enabling the industry to connect with importers, exporters, or flavor houses. Vanilla from Uganda can also be followed via LinkedIn.