A recent export restriction imposed by the Philippines is casting a pall over the growing British obsession with ube, a vibrant purple yam that has become a staple in UK eateries. The halt in sales is driven by local shortages of planting material and heightened concerns regarding agricultural oversight and control of the crop within the Philippines.
In North London, the trend’s momentum remains evident. At Mama & Sons, a Filipino restaurant in Kentish Town, the ube ice-cream sandwich continues to be a top seller. Diners are drawn to the combination of the fluffy bun and the distinctive purple ice cream, a testament to the ingredient’s expanding appeal.
Owner Omar Shah noted that the popularity of ube in the UK has escalated dramatically. He described a continuous cycle where just as he believes the trend has peaked, demand surges even higher, with the current year showing no signs of slowing down.
However, the Philippine government’s decision to curb exports has created a supply bottleneck. While chefs and cafe owners like Shah report thriving business, the regulatory measures intended to protect the crop are now limiting the availability of ube for international markets, potentially stalling the ingredient’s integration into British cuisine.
Does this protectionism help Philippine farmers long-term, or just kill the export market they need to sustain?
I had no idea ube was in such high demand here. The ice cream shortage is genuinely concerning for local businesses.
No ube for me? This trade ban is ruining my purple yam soufflé plans immediately.