American Shea Butter Institute

Research & Development

ASBI’s advanced knowledge in the applied and material science of shea butter allows ASBI to be a global leader in the development of new uses and commercial purposes of shea bio materials, as well as the bio processing techniques and protocols for the development of those materials into value added end uses.

Our highly experienced team works to design, formulate process, analyze, and conduct performance tests for various shea-based products. Because of our cutting edge intellectual property, we can differentiate a wide range of shea properties and characteristics. We then achieve replacement of traditional materials by matching characteristics of shea-based versions with standard products.

The ASBI Research and Development agenda focuses on two primary areas:

1. New Commercial Uses

• Shea based adhesives, resins, and composites
• Shea Plastics and compounding
• Shea conversion into chemicals, solvents, and fuels
• Nutritional value and characterization
• Total utilization of shea materials for for new commercial uses

2. Continuous improvements in bio processing 

• Standardized Shea quality protocols 
• Design and fabrication of new shea manufacturing equipment for improved extraction 
• Crushing, milling, extraction and processing protocols

R&D Services Provided by ASBI

Contract Research

Focuses on transforming beginning to end, shea bio-materials (tree, fruit, nut, butter) and derivied -products into value-added commercial uses.

Testing and Feasibility Research

Centers on preliminary testing and feasibility studies for converting shea materials and derived-products into value added commercial solutions.

Technical Consulting

Our consulting services can supply information, knowledge, and technical solutions related to the design and development of (1) new products containing shea and (2) improvements in bio processing methods.

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