Extraction yields from 30% to 50% of the oil in the kernels, depending on the extraction process. Extraction is key to the production procedure. To extract the kernels, workers first dry Argan fruit in the open air and then eliminate the fleshy pulp. Some producers remove the flesh mechanically without drying the Argan fruit.
Where is argan oil produced?
Currently, Argan oil is mainly produced by women’s cooperatives in Morocco using a semi-industrial mechanical extraction process. This allows the production of high-quality argan oil. Depending on the method used to prepare argan kernels, two types of argan oil can be obtained: food or cosmetic grade.
How does Argin oil filtration work?
After this process, the Argan oil is again decanted into a vessel. A clearly better quality can be achieved by filtration of the Argan oil after the pressing process. Depending on the degree of purity necessary the oil becomes filtered up to three times. After this process, the Argan oil is again decanted into a vessel.
How do you extract argan oil from a nut?
A thick peel envelops the fleshy pulp. The fleshy pulp surrounds a hard-shelled nut that represents about 25% of the weight of the fresh fruit. The nut contains 1 to 3 oil-rich Argan kernels. Extraction yields from 30% to 50% of the oil in the kernels, depending on the extraction process. Extraction is key to the production procedure.