Shea Nigeria has taken a significant step forward in ensuring quality and consistency within the shea butter sector by introducing a distinctive quality label. This quality label serves as a mark of assurance, signifying adherence to stringent standards and best practices throughout the production and supply chain. Nigeria?
What is the major constraint in expanding shea nut processing and marketing?
It has been indicated that the main problem encountered in marketing of Shea products is FFA and aflatoxin content in the nut while in storage. For the butter, the main problem is both the FFA and impurities. This paper identifies lack of value addition as the major constraint in expanding Shea nut processing and marketing in Nigeria.
How are shea nuts dried?
Fresh shea fruit were collected, de-pulped, boiled and dried using methods such as sun drying, traditional oven drying and manually operated rotary drying. The fresh shea nuts were subjected to boiling times of 0, 15, 30, 45 and 60 minutes before drying.
Can shea butter be produced in Africa?
While there is currently much international interest in developing the potential of shea butter production in Africa, the role of the fruit pulp in the local diet needs to be taken into consideration in development programs. The world is really making a turn to natural and bioderived chemicals/products.
Why do we harvest shea nuts?
Harvesting shea nuts once they have ripened and fallen, allows for a sustainable harvesting practice that minimizes environmental impact and promotes the natural regeneration of shea trees. Shea Nigeria has united its players in a collaborative effort to ensure sustainability and fair trade practices throughout the entire value chain.
Why do we pick ripened shea nuts?
Our shea nut pickers exclusively harvest ripened shea nuts from the ground, ensuring the highest quality nuts for optimal shea butter production. By picking ripened nuts ensures that they have reached full maturity and are less likely to be damaged or infested compared to nuts picked prematurely.