Shea Butter (Raw and Refined)

What It Is and What Export of It Is

Shea Butter is a natural fat extracted from the nuts of the African Shea tree (Vitellaria paradoxa). It exists in two main forms: raw (unrefined) and refined. Raw shea butter retains its nutty aroma and off-white to yellowish color, while refined shea butter is odorless and white, often used in cosmetic formulations.

Nigeria is one of the leading producers of Shea nuts in Africa, making Shea Butter a major non-oil export commodity.

Uses

• Cosmetics & Skincare: Moisturizers, body lotions, lip balms, soaps, hair creams.

• Pharmaceuticals: Used in ointments and topical treatments for skin conditions.

• Food Industry: As a substitute for cocoa butter in chocolates and other confectionery items.

• Industrial Applications: Used in lubricants, candles, and polishes.

Export Form

• Raw (Unrefined) Shea Butter – unprocessed, yellow or off-white.

• Refined Shea Butter – processed, deodorized, and white.

• Sometimes exported as Shea nuts for foreign processing.

Packaging

• Retail Export (Cosmetics/Food Grade):

  • Plastic jars, PET containers (250g – 5kg).

  • Air-tight, leak-proof, and labeled.

• Bulk Export:

  • 20–25 kg plastic-lined cartons or HDPE drums.

  • Sealed with shrink wrap for moisture and contamination protection.

  • Palletized for sea freight.

Export Specifications

UK Market Demand

• High demand in organic skincare and natural beauty sectors.

• Sought by niche retailers, spa product manufacturers, and black hair care brands.

• Increasing acceptance in ethical beauty and zero-waste packaging markets.

Export Tips

• Ensure organic certification and lab analysis for EU/UK standards.

• Avoid contamination during processing and packaging.

• Use proper labeling (INCI name, batch number, expiry, country of origin).

• Target B2B buyers such as formulators, cosmetic companies, and specialty food producers.