Cassava, a staple crop in Africa, is gaining new recognition as a global food ingredient, thanks to the vision of Tony Bello, founder of Shine Bridge Global. A Nigerian-born food scientist based in the United States, Bello is leveraging his expertise in snack innovation to bring cassava-based products to international markets.
Cassava’s Potential in the Global Food Industry
Cassava, a root crop similar in appearance to a large sweet potato, is widely grown across Africa, with Nigeria as the world’s leading producer. The crop can be processed into cassava flour, starch, ethanol, and glucose syrup, making it a versatile and sustainable food source. Rich in resistant starch and naturally gluten-free, cassava supports digestive health and helps regulate blood sugar levels—two factors driving demand for healthier food alternatives.
Bello, who played a key role in developing Baked Lay’s and Lay’s Stax potato crisps at Frito-Lay, sees cassava as the next big innovation in the snack and food industry. He believes cassava-based ingredients can replace potatoes and wheat in a variety of products, including snacks, pasta, gravies, and desserts.
“These big food companies are constantly seeking new ingredients to meet consumer demands for healthier and more diverse food options,” says Bello. “Cassava presents an exciting opportunity, especially as consumers look beyond potatoes, wheat, and corn.”
Bringing Cassava-Based Foods to Market
Shine Bridge Global has already tested cassava-based ingredients with several food manufacturers, many of whom are exploring cassava as a replacement for modified starches in their products. Bello is optimistic: “So far, so good. We should start seeing these products enter the U.S. private label market very soon.”
The company is also working on a range of ready-to-eat cassava-based products, including:
- Instant noodles
- Crackers
- Stackable chips
In a major step forward, Shine Bridge Global has partnered with an Indonesian company to launch a cassava-based instant noodle brand in Nigeria, tapping into the country’s growing instant food market.
Strengthening Nigeria’s Cassava Supply Chain
To ensure a steady supply of raw materials, Shine Bridge Global has partnered with Nigerian cassava farmers to prepare for full-scale production. This not only supports local agriculture but also positions Nigeria as a key supplier in the growing global cassava market.
The Future of Cassava in Global Food Innovation
With consumer demand shifting towards healthier, gluten-free, and non-traditional food sources, cassava’s role in the global food industry is poised for rapid expansion. Through innovation, strategic partnerships, and market-driven solutions, Tony Bello is leading the charge to bring Nigeria’s cassava to the world stage, transforming it into a mainstream food ingredient with global appeal.
