Grade A Shea Butter from Nigeria, Ethically Sourced
Amedu Distribution Limited supplies Grade A refined and unrefined West African shea butter, prized for its high sterol concentration, vitamin A content, and firm texture. Butter is ethically sourced from women's cooperatives and smallholder producers across Nigeria's shea belt.
Grades Available
| Grade | Description | Application |
|---|---|---|
| Grade A, Unrefined | Raw, cold pressed, unprocessed | Cosmetics, skincare, direct use |
| Grade B, Refined | Filtered, deodorised | Food industry, confectionery |
Quality Specifications
| Colour | Ivory to yellowish, naturally variable by region |
| Free Fatty Acid | 1% max for Grade A, 3% max for Grade B |
| Moisture and Impurities | 0.25% water, 0.25% insoluble impurities |
| Peroxide Value | As per Codex standard |
| Texture | Smooth, firm, creamy, melts at skin temperature |
| Aroma | Characteristic mild nutty scent, no rancidity |
| Additives | None, 100% pure, unblended |
| Packaging | Glass jar, plastic container, cartons, 200 kg HDPE drums for bulk |
| Peak Supply Season | June to November |
| Incoterms | FOB Lagos, others available |
Nutritional Profile per 100 g
| Oleic Acid | 40 to 60%, emollient and skin conditioning |
| Stearic Acid | 20 to 50%, structuring and skin barrier support |
| Linoleic Acid | 3 to 11%, essential fatty acid |
| Vitamin A | Present, skin repair and anti ageing |
| Vitamin E | Present, antioxidant and shelf life extension |
| Sterols | Present, anti inflammatory, West African variety is higher than East African |
| Natural SPF | Estimated SPF 6 to 10 |
Traceability
Sourced from women's cooperatives and smallholder producers across Kwara, Niger, Kogi, Benue, Nasarawa, and Plateau states. Ethical sourcing documentation is available. Chain of custody records include Certificate of Origin, Third-Party Inspection Certificate, Phytosanitary Certificate, and Fumigation Certificate per shipment.
Certifications and Compliance
Pricing Factors
Shea butter pricing depends on grade (unrefined Grade A commands a premium over refined Grade B), free fatty acid level, packaging format, MOQ, and Incoterm. Prices are generally more favourable during the June to November peak supply season.
Common Inquiries
What is the minimum order quantity for shea butter?
MOQ is typically one 20 ft container, approximately 12 to 14 metric tonnes in bulk drums, with smaller retail-format trial orders available.
What is the lead time?
3 to 5 weeks from confirmed order, depending on grade and current cooperative stock levels.
What payment terms are accepted?
Letter of Credit at sight and telegraphic transfer in advance, negotiable for established buyers.
How is shea butter packaged for export?
200 kg HDPE drums for bulk industrial buyers, or glass jars, plastic containers, and cartons for retail-ready orders.
Is ethical sourcing documentation available?
Yes, documentation on women's cooperative sourcing and fair procurement practices is available on request for ESG reporting.
Is Nigerian shea butter affected by the raw shea nut export restriction?
Nigeria's export ban applies to raw, unprocessed shea nuts, extended through February 2027 to encourage domestic processing. It does not restrict the export of processed shea butter. ADL supplies refined and unrefined shea butter, the processed, exportable form the policy is designed to promote, not the restricted raw nut.
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Buyer's Guide
Shea Butter: Sourcing Guide
MOQ, lead times, documentation, and the questions buyers ask most before ordering shea butter.
Read the Guide →