Pure ube powder vs latte mix

What is in the bag?

A pure powder brief targets a single yam ingredient. A latte preparation can contain sugar, carriers, flavours and dairy ingredients alongside ube. Ask for percentages where relevant and never compare the two as equivalent kilograms of yam.

Control versus preparation.

Pure powder gives a formulator more control over sweetness and additions. It may need hydration or cooking. A beverage preparation is designed around a serving method, but still needs to be tested in your exact drink. “Powder” does not mean “instant”.

Make a fair price comparison.

Compare the ingredient cost required for an acceptable finished serving. Account for preparation time, additional ingredients, usable yield and waste. A cheaper bag can cost more per drink if it requires a much higher dose.

• Keep serving size and recipe constant during comparison.
• Record the exact formula and dose used.
• Check allergen and dietary requirements against evidence.
• Test more than one production lot before recurring purchases.

Who actually makes which one.

Pure powder and a latte preparation require different processing capabilities. A grower or cooperative may also process or formulate products, but that activity must be documented. Ask who actually made and formulated the proposed lot, regardless of the organisation’s label.

• Bakery and ice cream: formulation control usually favours a pure powder from a processor able to document its drying process.
• Cafés and beverages: a formulated blend can simplify service, provided the manufacturer discloses a quantitative recipe.
• Industrial formulation: a single-ingredient powder keeps the recipe yours and the declaration short.
• Whatever the format: ask each organisation what it manufactures itself and what it buys and resells.

Common questions.