Particle.news

Download on the App Store

Viral Dubai Chocolate Drives Global Pistachio Shortage and Price Surge

The 'Can’t Get Knafeh of It' bar, inspired by Middle Eastern kunafa, has triggered unprecedented demand, straining pistachio supplies and spurring international knock-offs.

A Dubai Chocolate product is displayed at Vivel, a desserts shop and cafe, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
Image
Image

Overview

  • The 'Can’t Get Knafeh of It' bar, created by Dubai's Fix Dessert Chocolatier in 2021, became a global phenomenon after a late-2023 TikTok video amassed over 120 million views.
  • The viral craze has led to a sharp rise in pistachio prices, climbing from $7.65 to $10.30 per pound, exacerbated by a poor U.S. harvest and increased demand worldwide.
  • Iranian pistachio exports to the UAE surged by 40% in the six months leading to March 2025, reflecting efforts to meet the growing demand.
  • Major brands like Lindt have launched their own pistachio-filled chocolate bars, while some retailers are rationing sales to manage shortages.
  • The original bar remains exclusive to Dubai and Abu Dhabi, available only via Deliveroo for limited hours daily, and sells out within seconds.