Shea Butter (Vitellaria paradoxa)

• 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)