This Authentic African Black Soap Bar is derived from the home remedies of Togolese mamans. The process of production is quite intricate, incorporating "raw" shea butter, Orangutan-safe West African palm oil, and potash that is made from plantains and leaves. The mixture is cooked for six hours and is later left in the sun for three weeks. Emphasis is placed on ethics and sustainability in ingredient sourcing—while the West African palm oil is grown and harvested by small-scale farmers in the Maritime region of Togo, the oil is extracted by Fair Trade cooperatives in Sokodé who employ traditional methods that are not harmful to the environment. The bar is suitable for all skin types.
The Authentic African Black Soap Bar, alongside other products like it, are made available through the Alaffia Foundation which is a 501(c)3 organization that seeks to "empower African communities through the advancement of Fair Trade, education, sustainable living, and gender equality."
Authentic African Black Soaps
Alaffia is Making Products with Centuries-Old Recipes Available
Trend Themes
1. Ethical Sourcing - Opportunity for businesses to source ingredients sustainably and support communities in developing countries.
2. Traditional Methods - Potential for businesses to leverage traditional production methods to create unique and authentic products.
3. Natural Skincare - Growing market demand for skincare products made with natural ingredients.
Industry Implications
1. Beauty and Skincare - Opportunity for beauty companies to incorporate ethical sourcing and traditional production methods into their skincare product lines.
2. Fair Trade - Potential for fair trade organizations to partner with local communities to produce and distribute authentic products using traditional methods.
3. Sustainable Living - Opportunity for businesses in the sustainable living industry to promote and sell products made with natural ingredients that support communities in developing countries.