Bio Shea Butter

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Technical Specification Sheet

Shea Butter (Unrefined)

INCI Name: Butyrospermum Parkii Butter
Common Name: Shea Butter
Botanical Source: Vitellaria paradoxa
Plant Part Used: Kernel (nut)
Processing Method: Mechanical extraction
Grade: Cosmetic Grade
Packaging Size: 50g
Origin: Burkina Faso

1. Material Overview

Shea Butter is a natural vegetable butter obtained from the kernels of Vitellaria paradoxa. It is mechanically extracted without chemical solvents and remains solid at room temperature.

This cosmetic-grade raw material is supplied for further processing and incorporation into cosmetic formulations. Unrefined shea butter retains its natural color, scent, and lipid composition.

2. Physical & Organoleptic Characteristics

• Appearance: Solid butter at room temperature
• Color: Ivory to pale yellow
• Odor: Characteristic nutty aroma
• Solubility: Oil soluble
• Melting Point: Approximately 31–38°C
• Texture: Firm yet spreadable upon warming

Natural variation in color, scent, and texture may occur due to harvest conditions and batch differences.

3. Composition & Functional Attributes

Shea Butter naturally contains:

• Oleic acid
• Stearic acid
• Linoleic acid
• Palmitic acid
• Naturally occurring unsaponifiable matter
• Naturally occurring tocopherols

Functional Contribution in Formulations

Within cosmetic systems, Shea Butter is commonly selected for its ability to:

• Contribute structure and viscosity to emulsions and balms
• Support barrier-focused formulation design
• Enhance emollient and conditioning properties
• Improve texture and body in anhydrous systems
• Provide occlusive characteristics within lipid phases
• Stabilize formulations requiring semi-solid consistency

Its melting profile makes it particularly suitable for balms, body butters, lip care bases, and structured emulsions.

All performance characteristics must be validated within the final cosmetic formulation.

4. Suitable Formulation Applications

• Body butters
• Creams and emulsions
• Lip balm bases
• Anhydrous balms
• Hair conditioning systems
• Soap production

Recommended inclusion levels depend on formulation objectives, regulatory requirements, and stability testing.

5. Storage & Stability

• Store in a cool, dry environment
• Protect from direct heat and light
• Keep container tightly closed
• Avoid prolonged exposure to elevated temperatures

As a natural fat, texture may change slightly with temperature fluctuation without affecting functionality.

6. Handling & Manufacturing Considerations

This raw material should be handled in accordance with Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP).

Compatibility testing, microbial assessment (where relevant), stability testing, and final product safety evaluation remain the responsibility of the formulator or Responsible Person prior to market placement.

7. Regulatory Positioning

This product is supplied strictly as a raw cosmetic ingredient for further formulation.

It is not a finished cosmetic product and is not intended for direct consumer application.

The purchaser assumes full responsibility for compliance with Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 and all applicable legislation, including CPSR preparation, PIF documentation, labeling, stability testing, and notification requirements.

8. Interesting Facts About the Raw Material

• Vitellaria paradoxa trees can take up to 15–20 years to begin producing fruit.
• The butter is extracted from the nut kernel inside the fruit.
• Shea Butter remains solid at room temperature but melts near body temperature due to its fatty acid profile.
• The unsaponifiable fraction distinguishes it from many other vegetable fats used in cosmetic systems.
• Cultivation and processing are traditionally carried out in West Africa.