Calabash Nutmeg

Calabash nutmeg is a West African spice derived from the seeds of the Monodora myristica tree. Although not botanically related to “true nutmeg,” it has a similar warm, aromatic flavor with notes of nutmeg and pepper. It is commonly dried and ground or used whole.

• Food & Culinary:

  • Used as a nutmeg substitute in soups, stews, sauces.

  • Flavoring in meat dishes (especially bushmeat and fish).

  • Ingredient in spice blends and seasoning powders.

• Pharmaceutical / Herbal:

  • Used in traditional medicine for stomach ailments, rheumatism, and headaches.

  • Contains compounds with antimicrobial properties.

• Perfume & Fragrance:

  • Aromatic oil is valued in small-scale fragrance production.

• Plant-based flavoring in the growing alternative meat industry.

• Functional food research exploring antioxidants and antimicrobial activity.

• Diaspora interest in heritage spices for African-inspired cooking kits.

• Small-scale interest in craft spirits (infused gin, rum).

NAICS Codes:

• 311942 – Spice and Extract Manufacturing.

• 424490 – Other Grocery and Related Products Wholesalers.

• 325411 – Medicinal and Botanical Manufacturing.

Entrepreneurial Angle:

• Package as a specialty spice (whole or ground) for niche ethnic stores and online retail.

• Blend into African seasoning mixes (similar to curry blends, “West African spice mix”).

• Explore artisanal beverage infusions (craft gins, bitters).

• Promote as a low-cost, high-value spice alternative to nutmeg in global kitchens.

Market Strength & Forecast:

• Spices as a global category are forecast to grow at ~6% CAGR by 2030, driven by ethnic cuisine interest.

• Calabash nutmeg has niche appeal but strong potential in diaspora markets and in fusion cuisine.

• Positioned as an exotic, natural flavor enhancer for clean-label products.