Why Does Raw Unrefined Shea Butter Stink? Understanding the Pungent Aroma of Fresh Raw Shea Butter and Its Color and Scent Changes Over Time
Apr 30
4 min read
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The Fresh Aroma of Raw Organic Shea Butter
Fresh raw organic shea butter is often described as earthy and nutty. For some, this robust aroma can be quite strong, especially when compared to commercial products that may have added scents. This natural smell is a key indicator of authenticity and freshness; while processed alternatives often mask their identities with synthetic fragrances, raw organic shea butter maintains its original scent due to its minimal processing.
Think of fresh shea butter like a fine cheese; the initial aroma may be strong, but it’s a huge part of what makes it beneficial. This potent scent comes from fatty acids and essential vitamins, like Vitamin A and E, which are crucial for skin health. For example, studies show that shea butter contains about 60% fatty acids, which promote moisture retention and skin healing.
What Should Fresh Raw Shea Butter Look and Smell Like?
To determine the quality of your unrefined shea butter, pay attention to both its appearance and smell. Fresh shea butter has a firm to slightly soft texture and should break apart in your hands. Shea butter should not be very soft and greasy, or grainy. This indicates that it has been processed possibly with other oils or melted. Colors typically range from light beige to soft yellow, influenced by factors such as the region where it was harvested and how it was extracted. For example, unrefined shea butter from Ghana may have a more pronounced yellow hue compared to shea butter sourced from West Africa. Organic shea butter may have white spots due to temperature changes in transit, this will not affect the quality of the shea. Raw shea butter will lighten in color over time.
When evaluating the aroma, it can be offensive. A more pleasant, earthy fragrance indicates that the shea butter is likely older and the scent has dissipated or has been processed and deodorized with additives. If the scent leans towards being rancid or sour, it may suggest spoilage due to being mixed with other oils or additives and this calls the purity into question. It may be time to reconsider your brand.
Aging and Color Changes in Shea Butter
Raw organic shea butter exhibits interesting color changes as it ages. Initially, you might notice it has a rich, warm shade. Over time, this color could lighten to a paler hue, which is perfectly normal and does not mean the butter has gone bad. For example, high-quality shea butter can lighten by as much as 30% in color without losing any of its beneficial properties.
Along with color, the scent of fresh shea butter tends to soften over time. Users often report that the smell becomes subtler and more comforting, which can be beneficial for those sensitive to strong odors. This change is normal.
Understanding Spoilage vs. Freshness
Recognizing the difference between fresh and spoiled shea butter is crucial. Fresh organic shea butter typically emits a pungent earthy, nutty scent. Spoilage often happens when shea butter is combined with other ingredients, especially water-based products that can introduce bacteria.
If you detect a strange smell and notice a significant darkening in your shea butter's color, it may be time to discard it. However, if it remains within the normal aroma and color ranges, it is likely still good to use. Raw shea butter typically does not go bad or get rancid if it is pure. One sure clue is the feel of it: Pure raw shea butter is hard to slightly soft texture depending on the temperature. High heat processing causes graininess, a sand-like feel. So, if your shea butter is really soft, grainy, or an off-color and it has seemingly gone bad...it probably is not pure. Pure shea butter should not "spread."
How to Store Your Shea Butter Properly
Keep it Cool and Dry: Store your shea butter in a cool, dark place. Exposure to heat can melt it, and moisture encourages bacteria growth. An ideal temperature range is between 60°F and 75°F. Never seal shea butter in plastic. It's okay for shea butter to get hard, this doesn't reduce its moisturizing properties. Just hold in hands to warm and apply or heat to soften.
Use Airtight Containers with Moisture Pack: Don’t skimp on storage. Use airtight containers, such as glass jars with seals. I never recommend vacuum-sealed bags. Limiting exposure to air and humidity helps maintain freshness. Meaning, the pungent odor and hue will last longer. If you desire for the odor to soften, then store in brown paper bag or kraft wrapping in a cool, dry area.
Avoid Mixing with Other Ingredients: If you want to keep it fresh for longer, use shea butter in its pure form. Mixing it with other products can increase the risk of spoilage, especially if those ingredients aren't fresh or are water-based. If you make lotions, lip balms, or body butter, add a few drops of pure Vitamin E oil as a natural preservative.
Final Thoughts
Gaining a deeper understanding of raw organic shea butter will enhance your appreciation for this natural product. The strong aroma and color changes over time tell a story of authenticity and aging. While the fresh scent may be intense, it indicates the product's genuine nature and effectiveness. Aging is natural, and with proper storage, raw organic shea butter can provide lasting benefits and nourishment for your skin.
