Shea Stearin
Shea Stearin is a vital component derived from Shea Butter, commonly used in the chocolate and confectionery industry as part of Cocoa Butter Equivalents (CBEs), Cocoa Butter Improvers (CBIs) and CBR (Cocoa Butter Replacer) . It is obtained by fractionating Shea Butter, which also produces shea olein and shea latex.
This fraction has a high melting point, making it a versatile ingredient for various applications.
In addition to it's use in food products, Shea Stearin plays a key role in skincare, owing to its ability to lock in moisture and protect against environmental factors. Its high vitamin E content and fatty acids make it an effective shield against dryness and flakiness, while also providing a smooth, velvety texture to creams and lotions.
B&D Trading is a manufacturer and bulk supplier of Shea Stearin. We work directly with cooperatives of women in Ghana, who harvest the Shea nuts. We source ethically to ensure the highest quality while maintaining an affordable price point.
Product details
INCI name
Butyrospermum Parkii Butter
Botanical name
Vitellaria paradoxa
CAS number
194043-92-0 / 91080-23-8
Origin
Ghana
Certification
Organic
Kosher
Packaging
Box
Bucket
Drum
IBC
For more information about our products and prices
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Origin and use of Shea Stearin
Shea stearin is a solid fat derived from Shea Butter, which we extracted from the nuts of the shea tree (Vitellaria paradoxa). It is one of the fractions obtained during the refining process of Shea Butter. Stearin is the harder fraction of the fat, separated from the softer fractions like olein, through processes like crystallization or fractionation.
Composition
Shea Stearin primarily consists of stearic acid, a saturated fatty acid. It also contains other fatty acids such as oleic acid, palmitic acid, and linoleic acid. The exact composition can vary depending on factors like the source of the shea nuts and the processing method.
Physical Properties
Shea stearin is solid at room temperature and has a creamy texture. It has a higher melting point compared to the softer fractions of Shea Butter, making it suitable for use in products where a solid consistency is desired.
Applications
Due to its properties, Shea Stearin finds applications in various industries. It is commonly used in the cosmetic and personal care industry in products like soaps, lotions, creams, and lip balms. It's also used in the food industry, especially in chocolate and confectionery products, as a substitute for cocoa butter or in combination with it. Additionally, it can be used in candle making and as an ingredient in pharmaceutical formulations.
Sustainability
Our Shea butter and its fractions, including stearin, are sourced from regions in Africa where shea trees grow naturally. Sustainable harvesting practices are essential for us to ensure the well-being of the communities involved in shea butter production and to preserve the natural ecosystems where shea trees thrive.
