Bitter Kola (Garcinia kola)

Discover the distinctive taste of Bitter Kola (Garcinia kola), available from Ade-Obi Foods in New Zealand.
Bitter kola is a traditional West African seed recognised for its characteristically bitter, slightly astringent taste, which gradually develops as it is chewed. Known as Garcinia kola botanically, it has a long history of cultural and traditional use across parts of West Africa, including Nigeria.
At Ade-Obi Foods, our whole bitter kola is carefully sorted and packaged in convenient portions, making it easier for customers in New Zealand to access this familiar West African product.

What is Bitter Kola?

Despite its name, bitter kola is different from the kola nut commonly associated with Cola species. Bitter kola comes from the Garcinia kola tree, which is native to tropical West and Central Africa.
The seeds are traditionally eaten raw by removing the outer covering and chewing the inner seed. Their unmistakably bitter flavour is part of what makes bitter kola such a distinctive traditional food.

Why Choose Our Bitter Kola?

• Whole Garcinia kola seeds
• Distinctive traditional bitter flavour
• Carefully sorted before packing
• Conveniently portioned and packaged
• Familiar West African food with strong Nigerian cultural significance
• Available in New Zealand from Ade-Obi Foods

How to Eat Bitter Kola

Remove the outer skin or covering where necessary and chew the seed in small portions according to personal preference. Bitter kola has a naturally intense bitter taste, particularly when first chewed.