Cold pressing technology of prickly pear seed oil

Prickly Pear Seeds

According to a scientific study (1), the number of seeds in a prickly pear fruit varies between 20 and 40% of the total fruit weight, depending on the different varieties. In recent years, prickly pear seeds have attracted increasing interest, particularly due to the oils they contain. The oil extracted from the seeds, known as prickly pear seed oil, represents about 7 to 15% of the total seed weight.

It has been proven that the number of seeds per fruit can vary depending on several factors, such as variety, plant physiology, and environmental conditions. For example, some cultivars of Opuntia ficus-indica can contain more than 200 seeds per fruit. Thus, a Mexican cultivar was observed with 203 seeds, while an Italian cultivar revealed up to 273 seeds per fruit (2).

The Cold-Press Extraction Process

The extraction of prickly pear seed oil in Tunisia is a long and precise process that requires artisanal techniques to preserve the exceptional quality of the obtained oil. Here are the detailed steps in bullet points:

Harvesting and Sorting the Seeds

1. Harvesting ripe prickly pears:

Prickly pears are hand-picked when the fruits reach full maturity, usually between July and October. This ensures that the seeds contain all the necessary nutrients to produce high-quality oil. This harvest is carried out carefully to avoid damaging the fruits.

2. Cleaning the fruits:

Once harvested, the fruits are cleaned to remove any impurities or dust residues. This cleaning is crucial to ensure the purity of the seeds and, by extension, that of the oil.

3. Extracting the seeds:

The fruits are manually opened to separate the pulp from the seeds. This process, although tedious, allows for the selection of only the best seeds.

The pulp is washed several times to ensure complete separation from the seeds.

4. Drying the seeds:

The extracted seeds are spread out in the sun for natural drying. This environmentally friendly method helps preserve the quality of the seeds without exposing them to high temperatures.

Drying can last several days depending on the climate.

5. Sorting the seeds:

Once dry, the seeds are sorted to eliminate those that are damaged or of lower quality. This manual sorting ensures that only the highest quality seeds will be used for extraction.

Cold-Press Extraction

1. Cold-press technique:

The sorted and dried seeds are introduced into a mechanical press specially designed for cold extraction. This method, carried out at a temperature below 40°C, preserves essential nutrients such as unsaturated fatty acids, vitamin E, and antioxidants.

Unlike industrial processes using chemical solvents, cold pressing does not alter the chemical structure of the oil, ensuring a pure and natural final product.

2. Advantages of this method:

Cold pressing does not produce chemical by-products or toxic waste, making the process entirely ecological. The obtained oil is unrefined, retaining its light texture, natural golden color, and subtle aromas.

3. Filtering the oil:

The extracted oil is filtered to remove any seed particles. This fine filtration is carried out without resorting to chemical processes. The final product is a clear oil of exceptional quality.

4. Packaging:

Once extracted and filtered, the oil is stored in airtight glass or stainless steel containers to prevent oxidation. The oil is then packaged in tinted glass bottles, protecting it from UV rays and ensuring optimal preservation.

A Sustainable Commitment

At BioValley Tunisia, every step of the extraction process is designed to minimize environmental impact while ensuring the superior quality of the oil. The use of artisanal methods and the priority given to ecological techniques allow for the production of a precious and rare oil, symbolizing a know-how respectful of nature.

This artisanal and environmentally friendly process explains why organic prickly pear seed oil is so precious and renowned for its numerous cosmetic and therapeutic virtues.

The Advantages of Cold-Press Extraction

Choosing cold-press extraction for prickly pear seed oil offers numerous advantages, both for the environment and the quality of the final product.

A Pure and Natural Oil

Thanks to cold-press extraction, prickly pear seed oil retains all its beneficial properties. It is rich in omega-6 and omega-9, vitamin E, and sterols, essential components for nourishing, hydrating, and regenerating the skin and hair. This purity makes prickly pear seed oil a preferred ingredient in natural cosmetic care.

Minimal Environmental Impact

By opting for ecological extraction methods, BioValley Tunisia reduces its carbon footprint and limits the use of non-renewable resources. Cold pressing does not require chemicals, preventing soil and water pollution. Moreover, the organic cultivation of prickly pears contributes to the preservation of local biodiversity.

BioValley Tunisia’s Certifications and Commitments

The quality and sustainability of the prickly pear seed oil produced by BioValley Tunisia are guaranteed by recognized international certifications.

Strict Organic Standards

BioValley Tunisia is certified by organizations such as Ecocert, USDA Organic, and Cosmos Organic. These certifications attest that the prickly pear seed oil is produced according to strict organic standards, without GMOs, pesticides, or chemical fertilizers. They also ensure the traceability and authenticity of the product.

Ethical and Social Commitment

In addition to its ecological commitment, BioValley Tunisia supports local communities by collaborating with Tunisian farmers. This ethical approach creates sustainable jobs and values traditional know-how. By choosing the best prickly pear seed oil from BioValley, consumers contribute to a local and sustainable economy.

Discover the Multiple Benefits of Prickly Pear Seed Oil

Prickly pear seed oil is a natural ingredient highly valued in the field of cosmetics, notably for its moisturizing, regenerating, and anti-aging virtues, offering an ideal solution for numerous care needs.

Exceptional Care for the Skin

Prickly pear seed oil is a true ally for the skin thanks to its richness in antioxidants and essential fatty acids. It helps prevent signs of skin aging, reduce imperfections, and soothe sensitive skin. Moreover, it deeply hydrates, making the skin soft and radiant while being suitable for all skin types.

A Secret for Sublime Hair

Prickly pear seed oil also nourishes the hair, intensely nourishing the hair fiber and preventing damage such as split ends. It revitalizes and adds shine, helping to make hair stronger, more supple, and radiant with health.

A Solution for Skin Regeneration

Used in anti-aging treatments, this oil helps stimulate collagen production, promoting cell regeneration. It can also be used to improve the appearance of scars and even out skin tone, thanks to its reparative and healing properties.

Nourishing Care for the Body

Prickly pear seed oil is also ideal for deeply nourishing the skin of the body. It hydrates and nourishes dry areas while improving skin elasticity, making it a perfect care after showering or for massages.

A Natural and Responsible Choice

The prickly pear seed oil produced by BioValley Tunisia is more than just a cosmetic product. It is the result of a deep commitment to the environment, quality, and ethics. Thanks to this artisanal and ecological technique, the final product offers unparalleled quality, justifying the exclusivity of the price per liter of prickly pear seed oil, which reflects both the meticulous work and the numerous benefits it provides.

(1) HABIBI et al. (cited by CHERRARED Zouhir, 2012, p.13)
(2) (Cherrard Z, 2012)