FAQ

Frequently asked questions

What is Zobo?

Zobo is a traditional Nigerian drink made from roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa), a type of hibiscus. The deep-red, fleshy calyces around the flower are commonly sold dried and often called hibiscus flowers. Steeped in water, they make a ruby-red infusion with a bright, naturally tart, fruity taste.

Across cultures, related hibiscus drinks have different names: zobo in Nigeria; sobolo in Ghana; bissap, especially in Senegal and French-speaking West Africa and also familiar in France; sorrel in Jamaica and parts of the Caribbean; agua de Jamaica or flor de Jamaica in Mexico and many parts of Latin America; and karkadé in Egypt and other parts of North Africa and the Middle East. In Jamaica, the usual name is sorrel; “agua de Jamaica” is the Spanish name used in Mexico and elsewhere in Latin America. The names refer to connected traditions, while recipes and customs vary from place to place.

How is Zobo traditionally prepared?

A common traditional method is to rinse dried roselle calyces, steep them in hot water or simmer them briefly, then strain the infusion. Depending on the region and household, it may be sweetened and flavoured with fruit, citrus, spices, or herbs. It is often served chilled, though serving traditions vary. Our bottled flavours have their own ingredient lists; please see the details below and check the bottle label.

What flavours do you offer?

Our current flavours are Original Pineapple and Ginger Apple. Unsweetened Zobo may be available by request; contact us before ordering.

What size are the bottles?

Each bottle is 500 ml. Choose a single bottle or a pack of 6, 12, or 24. Current prices and availability appear on the product pages.

What ingredients are in each flavour?

Original Pineapple: filtered water, hibiscus leaves, unrefined cane sugar, pineapple, and sodium benzoate. Ginger Apple: filtered water, hibiscus leaves, unrefined cane sugar, apple, ginger, and sodium benzoate. Please check the bottle label for the most current ingredient information.

Why is sodium benzoate listed in the ingredients?

Our bottled flavours list sodium benzoate as a preservative. In Canada, Health Canada sets permitted uses and conditions for preservatives, including maximum levels that can vary by food category. You can read the List of Permitted Preservatives. A preservative can help control some microorganisms, but its presence alone does not make a drink spoil-proof.

Are your bottles shelf-stable?

Please follow the storage instructions and date printed on your bottle. Shelf life depends on the complete product and its processing, packaging, and storage conditions; the presence of a preservative alone does not establish shelf stability. Do not consume a bottle if its seal is broken or the package is damaged or leaking. Contact us if you have a concern about a specific bottle.

Is the Zobo sweetened?

Our regular flavours are sweetened with unrefined cane sugar. Unsweetened Zobo is available by request only; please ask before placing an order.

How should I serve it?

Gently shake the bottle and serve chilled. Natural separation may occur.

How should I store it?

Follow the storage and date instructions printed on the bottle. Email us if you have a question about a specific bottle.

Where can I buy The Food Store Zobo?

See Where to Find Us for our listed retail partners. Stock changes, so confirm availability with the location before travelling. You can also shop online.

How much is shipping?

Ontario orders ship for a flat rate of CAD $15 per order. Rates for other destinations, where available, are shown at checkout. See Shipping & Delivery.

How long will delivery take?

Available delivery estimates appear at checkout. Carrier estimates are not guaranteed and may change due to delays or conditions outside our control.

Do you accept wholesale or event orders?

Yes. Wholesale orders generally start at 100 bottles. For an enquiry, tell us your location, preferred flavours, estimated quantity, and event date if applicable. Visit Wholesale & Events.

Can I order customized stickers for a bulk order?

Yes. Customized stickers are available for bulk beverage orders for occasions such as birthdays, weddings, events, and businesses. Quantity, pricing, and timing are confirmed for each project. Visit Custom & Bulk Orders.