Our Kalahari Melon and Baobab Oil Supplier Story: From Seeds to Sustainability

A key partner, sharing our dedication to sustainable practices and the well-being of the planet and its people is one of our suppliers based in South Africa.

The thriving, family-owned social enterprise specialises in sustainably sourcing plant extracts, oils, and powders for personal care and nutrition. Their operations involve cultivating indigenous and exotic species, as well as wild harvesting.

Dedicated to protecting the planet through zero-waste, and eco-friendly practices, all waste materials generated during the production of their oils are repurposed for mulching and the creation of their own nutrient-rich compost, which is then used to nourish the trees in their fields, closing the loop on waste.

Another standout feature of our partnership with this company is their commitment to supporting local communities. For instance, they purchase seeds from wild harvesters, thereby uplifting their livelihoods, and supporting their families. By engaging with these harvesters, not only does the company contribute to improving the harvesters’ standard of living but also upholds the traditional harvesting practices of local communities. They are also actively involved in a community development project aimed at sustainable seed sourcing, including the purchase of seedlings and ongoing research on cultivation.

In addition to this project, the company have established three outgrower cooperatives in the surrounding communities. Each cooperative consists of 20 outgrowers who receive plants and agricultural training. Fostering local economic development and employment, each of the cooperatives have off-take agreements with the company to supply seeds for oil production.

Following a similar model, they are now in the process of setting up another outgrower initiative, to empower local smallholder farmers, boosting crop production, creating jobs, and ensuring extra income for the community.

This social enterprise takes pride in producing clean beauty products, with all their oils 100% pure and natural, derived solely from the seeds of the respective species. They also strongly oppose animal testing and therefore do not commission or conduct such activities.

In line with our pursuit of sustainable beauty, they adhere to sustainable and ethical sourcing and production practices for all their oils. They are actively working towards achieving a net-zero carbon footprint by planting over 200,000 plants, indigenous to South Africa, which continuously capture carbon dioxide and release oxygen. This effort helps offset carbon emissions and combat soil erosion. Moreover, they upcycle waste materials, employ water-wise irrigation techniques, and embrace certified organic agriculture methods approved by Global Good Agricultural Practice standards.

Holding various certifications showcases their dedication to quality and safety, which is of paramount importance to us at O&3. Some of their current accreditations include ECOCERT organic certification, Global G.A.P, Kosher, Halaal, FDA, and BABS compliance along with plans to obtain their HACCP certification and more in the future.

This supplier stands as an exemplary partner in our pursuit of sustainability and our mission to support communities. Their unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship, ethical practices, and community development align with our values and objectives. With partners like this, O&3 are forging a path towards a more sustainable future for all.