From TikTok to Crisis: ‘Dubai Chocolate’ Trend Fuels Pistachio Shortage Worldwide

A viral TikTok trend centered around “Dubai chocolate” is now creating a real-world impact—an international shortage of pistachios.

The trend, which features luxury-style chocolate-covered dates or pistachio-filled chocolates often wrapped in gold foil or presented in ornate boxes, originated in the UAE and quickly took over TikTok feeds globally. Videos showing the process of making or unboxing “Dubai chocolate” have racked up millions of views, sparking a huge demand for the sweet treat.

What sets these chocolates apart is their lavish use of pistachios—both whole and ground—which has now led to a spike in pistachio consumption. As home bakers and boutique confectioners rush to replicate the viral sweets, suppliers around the world are struggling to keep up. Importers in countries like the U.S., U.K., and Canada report sharp increases in pistachio prices and delayed shipments due to skyrocketing demand.

Food industry experts say this is another example of how social media can quickly influence global supply chains. While the pistachio shortage isn’t critical yet, it has already led to bulk-buying and hoarding behavior in some regions.

As the trend continues, producers in Iran, the U.S., and Turkey—the world’s top pistachio growers—are ramping up exports to meet demand. Meanwhile, TikTok creators show no signs of slowing down, with ever more elaborate takes on “Dubai chocolate” continuing to go viral.