Ever heard of a small seed that carries a whole continent’s flavour in its pocket?

West and Central Africa’s best-kept secret and the star of our Taste Poy creations.

Where it all begins

Akpi comes from the Ricinodendron heudelotii tree, a tall tree that thrives in the lush forests of the Ivory Coast, Cameroon, and other parts of Central and West Africa. Its fruits look a bit like plums, but it is what’s inside that matters the most, smooth brown seeds packed with natural oils and incredible flavour.

From forest to flavour

The process is as fascinating as the seed itself

The fruits are gathered by hand, mostly by women in local communities.

The seeds are cracked open, then carefully dried and roasted.

Once ready, they release a rich, nutty, slightly musky aroma that chefs and home cooks can’t resist.

Why we love it

Akpi is more than just a spice. It is tradition, wellness, and taste. In the Ivory Coast, it is often used in sauces and soups to add depth and richness.

Some even call it a “natural flavour booster,” thanks to it's unique ability to elevate any dish it touches.

The Akpi tree is a generous one. It takes patience growing tall and wide, dropping its fruits once a year like a gift from the forest. Each seed collected carries a piece of the land where it grew. the soil, the sun, the rain, and the hands that harvested it.