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SHEA BUTTER

Shea Butter (Vitellaria paradoxa)

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    • Scientific name: Vitellaria paradoxa

    • Extracted from the nuts of the shea tree, native to the Sahel region of Africa.

    • Rich in fatty acids (oleic, stearic) and vitamins A & E.

    • Cosmetics: Moisturizer, hair conditioner, skin healer.

    • Food: Used in chocolate (as cocoa butter equivalent), bakery fats, and cooking oil.

    • Medicinal: Used traditionally for treating burns, rashes, and muscle aches.Global cosmetics market: Major input in lotions, balms, soaps, shampoos.

    • Food industry: Certified edible shea butter used in confectionery and margarine production.

    • Pharmaceuticals: Base for ointments and creams.

    • Sustainability branding: Increasing demand for ethically sourced shea in fair-trade supply chains.

    • Artisan cosmetic brands: Whipped shea butter, lip balms, hair creams.

    • Food products: Partner with chocolatiers or vegan brands to supply edible shea as a cocoa butter alternative.

    • Amazon & Etsy markets: Packaging in glass jars, eco-friendly tins, or travel sizes.

    • Co-branding with women’s cooperatives: Strong appeal for socially responsible buyers

  • NAICS Codes

    • 311225 – Fats and Oils Refining and Blending (for food-grade shea butter and cocoa butter equivalents)

    • 325611 – Soap and Other Detergent Manufacturing (for shea-based soaps, shampoos)

    • 325620 – Toilet Preparation Manufacturing (cosmetics: creams, balms, lotions)

    • 424490 – Other Grocery and Related Products Merchant Wholesalers (bulk export of shea butter for food/cosmetics)