Development Status of Production and Processing Machinery of Shea Oil from a Woody Oil Plant in Nigeria

Abstract

This report presents status of production and processing techniques of Shea oil from a woody oil plant in Nigeria. Attempt was made at presenting the geographical location and the characteristics of the climate at different ecological and geopolitical zones of the country.  The land use distribution in Nigeria was also classified. History of production and processing of edible oil of plant origin in Nigeria was highlighted. Major constraints towards sustainable development of the sector were identified. Distribution of some woody oil plants in Nigeria was presented. Detailed production and processing techniques of Shea oil were presented to include traditional method, improved traditional methods, dry extraction method and processing machinery. Suggestions were presented for future development.