The fruit is composed of four layers – the epicarp, mesocarp, shell and the kernel. The epicarp together with the mesocarp is called the pulp; the shell and the kernel compose the nut. The kernel is the oil-bearing material that can be obtained by processing the shea nut fruit.
What is a shea nut kernel?
The kernel is the oil-bearing material that can be obtained by processing the shea nut fruit. The fruit primarily undergoes several processes – de-pulping, boiling, drying, deshelling, winnowing and sorting – to obtain the kernel from which the shea butter is extracted. Mechanical processing technology
What is the global demand for shea butter?
Global demand for shea butter is booming and set to exceed $3.5 billion by 2028. The beauty industry is a large driver behind this growth. While shea butter has been a cooking staple in Africa for centuries, it is also increasingly a major ingredient in lotions, moisturizers, and balms.
Does mother’s Shea export to target?
With Prosper Africa support, Mother¡¯s Shea is now exporting to over 1,000 Target stores across the United States. We recently interviewed Eugenia and Naa-Sakle on running a business that cuts across continents, working in a women-led industry, and getting the right support at the right time.