About Us

The b-TAF project stands for the Botanicals Trusted and Authenticated Fingerprinting project, which aimed to build a database of properties of indigenous oils to support sustainable biotrade, with a focus on economic impact in the marula and baobab value chain. This pilot project ran from November 2022 to November 2024.

In its first phase, b-TAF analyzed 33 baobab oil samples, 11 baobab seed samples, 60 marula oil samples, and 27 marula nut samples. These samples were received from producers and traders of crude marula and baobab oil across the African continent.

Samples, including seeds/nuts and extracted oil from the same batch where possible, were analyzed. This was done to ensure that any possible variations due to processing were detected.

Sector-wide Importance

The indigenous oil industry is facing significant challenges due to the widespread adulteration of oils. This malpractice not only erodes consumer trust but also forces genuine producers out of the market.

b-TAF aims to mitigate these issues by setting and enforcing high-quality standards, ensuring the integrity of the industry.

  • 29 companies submitted samples
  • 60 marula oil samples
  • 27 marula nut samples
  • 33 baobab oil samples
  • 11 baobab seed samples

Quality assurance factors in oil

  • Ensure good hygiene practices whilst extracting the oil.
  • Press oil as soon as possible after the extraction of the nuts/kernels.
  • Make sure that the equipment that is used during the extraction process is cleaned each day.
  • Store the oil in dark containers with no headspace, and keep it in a cool environment to maintain optimal quality.
  • Quality control during the extraction process is very important.
  • When testing oils, remember to test for Quality and Composition, at an accredited lab if possible.

Marula

Known for its abundance of fruit rich in value to both humans and animals

Marula oil is sought after in the cosmetic industry because of its composition

The oil is high in oleic acid making it ideal for the use in skincare products

Marula oil is known for its mysterious synergy of antioxidants contributing to the unique stability of the oil

Baobab

The majestic baobab tree shrouded in myths is a well-known symbol of Africa.

Not only are the fruits a super food to animals and humans, but the unique oil in the seed is also of great value.

The oil extracted from baobab seeds have been used in traditional medicine for centuries for several purposes, and as a natural moisturizer for the skin.

Baobab oil is rich in tocopherols and sterols and contains multiple micro and macro components associated with various skin benefits.

Photography on this website is credited to GIZ/BIA/ABioSA – Jonathon Rees