In May 2024 we visited our supplier for organic virgin avocado oil in Kenya. During the visit we have seen how avocado’s harvested, how they are further processed, to final oil production at the plant. It was magnificent to see how avocados are cultivated, often on small family farms, and how they are processed into oil.
The above photo was taken at the time the avocados were delivered to the production facility. Each container is labelled with a QR-code that provides traceability information, such as the variety, date of collection and information about the farm.
A GEOGRAPHICAL INSIGHT
The farms are located in the Mt. Kenya region, this is a perfect spot because of the climatic conditions. The temperature, humidity, and altitude are.
Harvesting of the crop happens twice a year, the majority in May and a smaller amount in October. The avocados are picked from the tree and taken in bags to a collection point, usually around the home of the residents of the land. Here they are washed and inspected for conformity. If good, then the avocado is collected into trays. Refused avocados can be used for other purposes, such as locally or for crude oil pressing.
THE SKIN AS DEFENDER
The skin of the avocado has a protective effect because of it thickness, therefore the core of the fruit is protect for rotting, plant diseases and contamination. For virgin oil only the best part of the avocado, the flesh, is used for production.
THE NEXT STEP
Once the pressing of the fresh flesh of the avocados is done, the oil will be stored in a tank. It is essential to give the oil a break for three or four days to make it naturally filter itself. After resting, the oil is mechanically filtered and winterized. This last step is crucial to maintain a clear oil at a lower temperature. For example, during the winter in Europe or at a controlled temperature in the supermarket.
Each tree gives between the 3 and 5 tons of avocado a season.
Again the oil will be stored in a tank but now it is ready for packing. As standard, we package this in carton totes or steel drums. This keeps the quality good and is efficient in transportation.
ABOUT SIGMA OIL SEEDS
We are a producer and importer of plant-based specialty oils.
– We source in origin.
– Take care of quality assurance.
– Offering dedicated solutions.
It is our aim to make it as simple as possible for our customers. Feel free to contact us for any information.
