Tag: Shea nuts

Over 1.7 million tonnes of raw shea nuts are produced in Africa annually, and they come from a single, specific fruit. So, what fruit produces shea butter? It originates from the nut contained within the fruit of the African shea tree, a natural, multi-purpose resource native to the region.

While the raw, unrefined shea nut is not commonly consumed, its oil, known as shea butter, has a rich history in food. In fact, approximately 90% of the world's exported shea butter is used in the food industry. This versatile ingredient is most often found in packaged goods as a cocoa butter alternative, as well as in traditional African dishes.

The resilient African shea tree can produce fruit for up to 200 years, providing a vital economic resource for many communities. This remarkable tree is the source of the popular natural fat that is shea butter, but many people are still unaware of what is shea butter made from.

With a long history spanning centuries in West and East Africa, the meticulous process for how is shea butter made from shea nuts has been a cornerstone of local economies and traditional skincare. This valuable fat is extracted from the kernels found inside the fruit of the African shea tree, a process perfected over generations.

Shea nuts, integral to West African cuisine for centuries, are a source of nutrient-dense fat, containing high levels of healthy oleic and stearic acids. This raises the question for many: are shea nuts good for you and safe for consumption?

Traditionally used for centuries in West and East African cooking, shea nuts are not just a source of moisturizing butter but also a nutritional powerhouse. What are the benefits of shea nuts, and how do they contribute to a healthy diet and overall wellness?

Indigenous to the Sahel region of Africa, the shea tree has provided a vital source of fat and nutrition for centuries, prompting the question: Can you eat shea nuts? The simple answer is yes, though their processing and consumption methods differ significantly from other, more commonly known nuts.