Not all Shea is created equal: What’s the difference between East African and West African Shea Butter?

What’s the difference between East African and West African Shea Butter?

We often get asked: what makes East African Shea different from the West African Shea butter? Isn’t it the same thing, just grown in different areas? The short answer is: no, they’re not the same! In fact, there are so many differences that they are seen by connoisseurs in the cosmetic industry as entirely unique products. In this article we drill down and explain 6 key differences between them to help you choose the right product for your formulations.

Here are some of the most important differences between East African Shea Butter and West African Shea Butter:

1. They’re different species that grow in different parts of Africa

In East Africa - Northern Uganda and South Sudan, the Shea variety that grows there is called Vitellaria Nilotica. Endogenous only to East Africa along the Nile river basin (where it got its name), Nilotica Shea is synonymous with East African Shea Butter. West African Shea Butter comes from the Vitellaria Paradoxa tree species, which grows in West Africa especially Ghana, Nigeria, and Burkina Faso. Nilotica Shea  is much less common, available only in a small geographic area in comparison. The rarity is a factor in its quality and price point.

2. They have different nutrient profiles

Shea Butter is known for its unique healing properties - in fact Shea is sometimes referred to as ‘the Karite tree’ which means ‘the Tree of Life’. However, there is a difference between the nutritional profiles of Nilotica Shea vs. Paradoxa Shea specifically when it comes to fatty acids. 

Nilotica Shea Butter has a higher oleic acid content, which makes it softer and more creamy compared to West African Shea Butter. West African Shea Butter by comparison has a higher stearic acid content, which gives it a more solid texture. Nilotica Shea Butter has 25% more essential fatty acids. 

3. They have different colors & scents

Different nutrients means they have different colors and scents. Nilotica Shea has a light beige to ivory color and a very mild nutty scent. West African is a yellow to ivory color and has a stronger nutty scent.

Important to note for formulations: Nilotica Shea has much less of an aroma on its own, so your own scents stand out more.

4. They have different consistency and melting points 

Nilotica Shea Butter has a lower melting point.

West African Shea Butter (Paradoxa) has a higher stearic acid content, which makes it harder and more brittle compared to Nilotica Shea Butter, which also has a lower melting point.

Nilotica Shea Butter has a creamier consistency and is easier to apply than West African Shea Butter.

5. Different Production Methods

Because Nilotica Shea is seen as a superior quality raw material, it tends to be non-heat treated so that the nutrient profiles are kept intact. At Pameri Organic, we do not treat our Nilotica Shea and it’s in its raw, unfiltered, state. Nilotica Shea tends to be harvested sustainably. Nilotica Shea doesn’t need as much processing. While not all Nilotica Shea is unrefined and raw like our Nilotica Shea, because it is such a high quality ingredient it tends to be left alone more often. 

6. Shelf Life

Nilotica Shea Butter has a shorter shelf life than West African Shea Butter, but can still last up to 18 months if stored properly. Something to consider - its higher potency and bioavailability mean it’s best used relatively fresh in products.  

Comparing East vs. West African Shea Butter

*Sources: Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for Organic Nilotica Shea Butter, Sector Brief Uganda: Nilotica shea butter

Closing

Both types of Shea butter are highly beneficial for skin and hair care, and can be used interchangeably in many cases. The choice between Nilotica Shea Butter and West African Shea Butter may come down to personal preference and the specific properties that are most important for the intended use.

All of these reasons are why Nilotica Shea is considered to be more luxurious and higher quality. Because of its rarity, its texture and high vitamin profile, it tends to be preferred by high-end cosmetic brands who want their customers to have the best quality ingredients. 

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Try Nilotica Shea today and experience the difference yourself. We offer a free sample on email signup. See for yourself!