5 surprising uses of shea nuts
What's the story
Everyone knows the African shea nut for its usage in cosmetics, specifically in making of shea butter. But did you know that the amazing nut has many other innovative uses apart from skincare? From food to industrial applications, the shea nut has a lot to offer, a fact that is mostly ignored. Here are five non-cosmetic uses of the African shea nut.
Culinary use
Shea nut as a cooking oil
Shea oil, extracted from the nuts, makes for an excellent cooking oil alternative. It is extremely high in essential fatty acids and vitamins A and E. The oil's high smoke point makes it perfect for frying and sauteing. In some regions, it is even used as a substitute for traditional cooking oils for its nutritional benefits and unique flavor profile.
Agricultural use
Shea nut residue as animal feed
After extracting oil from shea nuts, the remaining residue becomes an invaluable resource in the form of animal feed. This byproduct, rich in both protein and fiber, makes an excellent dietary supplement for livestock. It provides a sustainable method of minimizing waste while offering farmers an economical option for feeding their animals. This practice promotes agricultural sustainability by efficiently using all parts of the shea nut.
Energy source
Shea nut shells for biofuel production
The shells of shea nuts can be converted into biofuel through processes like pyrolysis or gasification. These shells are abundant and renewable resources that can contribute to sustainable energy solutions. Utilizing them for biofuel production not only reduces reliance on fossil fuels but also minimizes environmental impact.
Preservation method
Shea butter in food preservation
Shea butter has antimicrobial properties that make it handy in food preservation. You can apply it to fruits or vegetables to prolong their shelf life by preventing microbial growth. This natural method of preservation provides an eco-friendly substitute to chemical preservatives widely used in food storage.
Agricultural modernization
Shea cake as fertilizer
The leftover cake generated from shea nut oil extraction serves as an organic fertilizer, enriching soil with nitrogen and potassium. It's directly applied or composted with organic materials, enriching soil fertility and promoting sustainable agriculture. This practice naturally improves crop yields, supporting environmental and economic sustainability without the use of synthetic chemicals.