As a result, many shea producers are adopting more mechanized solutions to improve quality and yield. Larger processors use mechanical extraction equipment to recover more oil efficiently. Screw press expellers physically crush the shea kernels to squeeze out shea oil from the solid meal, which exits the expeller as a cake.
What is a shea nut kernel?
The kernel is the oil-bearing material that can be obtained by processing the shea nut fruit. The fruit primarily undergoes several processes – de-pulping, boiling, drying, deshelling, winnowing and sorting – to obtain the kernel from which the shea butter is extracted. Mechanical processing technology
Does shea butter need solvent extraction?
For these reasons, solvent extraction is generally not preferred for shea butter extraction—especially in food and cosmetic markets where consumers seek natural, organic ingredients. What is shea oil? Traditional water extraction, mechanical expeller pressing, and solvent extraction yield shea butter.
Is shea butter a good alternative to table oil?
Because of its high nutritive value and low cholesterol levels, shea butter is an excellent alternative to table oil. Conventionally, shea butter is widely used in the treatment for ailments such as leprosy. It is also put to use in various industrial applications including soap making, cosmetics, lubricants and paints.
How do you store dried shea nut kernels?
Drying in the sun or in an oven for several days to reduce the moisture content and prevent mold during storage. De-husking to remove the shell by cracking the kernel then blowing the shells off with a fan or winnowing machine. Dried, shelled shea nut kernels can be stored or sold at this point in the process.