Global demand for shea butter is growing: but it’s not all good news for the women who collect the nuts

Competition for shea trees is rising in west Africa, leaving the poorest women collectors with less access and fewer gains.

By: Francois Questiaux, University of Copenhagen and Marieve Pouliot, University of Copenhagen, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: January 26, 2026

Words: 1,248

Last Updated: 1 month, 3 weeks ago

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By Francois Questiaux, University of Copenhagen and Marieve Pouliot, University of Copenhagen

Shea butter has become a highly sought-after ingredient in cosmetics and food manufacturing worldwide. Since the early 2000s its use as a substitute for cocoa butter has driven a dramatic rise in international demand. The shea butter industry has grown by more than 600% over the last 20 years.

The shea tree is semi-domesticated across the dry savannah region in a …

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