Product Overview
Shea Butter is a natural fat extracted from the nuts of the shea tree (Vitellaria paradoxa), predominantly found in West Africa. It is a highly versatile product widely used in the cosmetic, skincare, pharmaceutical, and food industries.
High-quality Nigerian shea butter is known for its creamy texture, rich fatty acid profile, and natural healing and moisturizing properties. It is used internationally in soaps, lotions, creams, hair care products, chocolate production, and as a natural ingredient in cooking.
Forms & Packaging for Export
Shea butter is exported in the following forms:
Raw (Unrefined) Shea Butter: Natural, creamy, slightly nutty aroma, retains all nutrients.
Refined Shea Butter: Filtered and deodorized, suitable for cosmetics and food applications.
Fractionated Shea Butter: Specialized for specific industrial or cosmetic uses.
Standard Export Packaging:
25–50 kg drums (bulk export)
10–20 kg cartons (refined)
500g – 5kg retail packs for cosmetic or retail use
Custom packaging available for private labeling
Quality Specifications
| Parameter | Standard Specification |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Creamy, solid at room temperature |
| Color | Ivory to pale yellow (unrefined), white (refined) |
| Odor | Nutty (unrefined), odorless (refined) |
| Moisture Content | ≤ 0.5% |
| Free Fatty Acid (FFA) | ≤ 4% (unrefined), ≤ 2% (refined) |
| Peroxide Value | ≤ 10 meq O₂/kg |
| Saponification Value | 190–205 mg KOH/g |
| Melting Point | 31–39°C |
| Shelf Life | 12–24 months if stored properly |
Nutritional & Functional Value
Shea butter is rich in:
Fatty Acids: Stearic, oleic, linoleic acids for moisturizing and healing properties
Vitamins: Vitamin A, E, and F
Antioxidants: Natural compounds that help protect skin and hair
Functional Uses: Moisturizer, emollient, hair conditioner, soap base, chocolate production
Export Requirements
Phytosanitary Certificate: Ensures the product is free from pests and contamination.
Food and Cosmetic Safety Compliance: Must meet international standards (FDA, EU cosmetic regulations).
Customs Documentation: Commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, and bill of lading.
Labeling Requirements: Include type (raw or refined), weight, production date, and best-before date.
Quality Assurance: Third-party inspection/testing may be required for bulk shipments.
Uses of Shea Butter
Cosmetic Industry: Soaps, lotions, creams, lip balms, and hair care products.
Pharmaceutical Industry: Skin ointments, healing balms, and medicinal creams.
Food Industry: Ingredient in chocolate, confectionery, and margarine production.
Retail: Packaged for direct consumer use in creams, balms, and personal care products.
Export Market Demand
Shea butter has strong demand in:
United States & Canada: Cosmetic and natural skincare industries.
Europe (UK, Germany, France, Netherlands): Cosmetic, skincare, and chocolate industries.
Asia (Japan, India, China): Pharmaceutical and cosmetic production.
Storage & Shelf Life
Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, and ventilated area away from direct sunlight and moisture.
Shelf Life: 12–24 months depending on refinement and packaging.
Advantages of Exporting Shea Butter
High global demand in cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and food industries.
Natural, organic, and versatile product.
Long shelf life and easy storage.
Exportable in bulk or retail packaging for diverse markets.
HS Code for Export: 15159090 (Other fixed vegetable fats, including shea butter)
Contact Topnoch Export
Topnoch Export Limited
Registered Address:
NO 6, BABS ISHOLA CLOSE OFF ALHAJI MUSTAPHA STREET, ORI-OKUTA, AGRIC BUS STOP, IKORODU, LAGOS STATE, NIGERIAEmail: southercreedexports@gmail.com, info@topnotchexportsltd.com
Phone: +2348146912446
For inquiries, pricing, and bulk orders, contact Topnoch Export directly.
