Plum kernel oil: a culinary and cosmetic treasure trove

Over 100 species of plum have been cultivated in temperate regions of the world for thousands of years. Among them, Prunus domestica, a member of the Rosaceae family, stands out for its acclimatization in France. Native to Asia and Europe, it is particularly widespread in the Agen region of south-western France.
A close cousin of the peach, apricot and almond, the plum tree is the source of a precious vegetable oil contained in its kernel.

This modest tree, reaching around 6 meters in height, is characterized by its smooth, spreading branches. Its oval leaves, sometimes pointed and slightly serrated, vary in color from bright green to dark green, depending on the variety. The delicate white flowers appear in groups of 2 to 5 on short stalks.

The oblong fruits, which begin to form when the tree is 3 to 4 years old, reach maturity between August and September, with a brownish-black or dark purple hue and a sweet, slightly acidic taste.

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Sustainable, environmentally-friendly production

Our plum kernel oil comes from the Agen region in south-west France. As part of our commitment to a sustainable, circular economy, we recover plum stones not used by the food industry. By giving these pits a new use, we practice upcycling or overcycling.

Plum selection and harvesting

The plums we use come from orchards cultivated by local farmers who follow sustainable farming practices (reuse of water, hulls, stones). Harvesting generally takes place between August and September, when the plums reach full maturity.

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Extracting the stones

Once harvested, the plums are transported to facilities where the fruit is carefully sorted and pitted. The pits are recovered for processing into exfoliating powder and the tinder into oil.

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Cold pressing

The kernels are then washed and dried to remove any residual moisture. This is crucial to preserve the intrinsic qualities of the kernels and ensure optimal oil extraction. Once dry, the kernels are crushed to extract the kernels, which are then cold-pressed. This extraction method preserves the integrity of the fatty acids and essential nutrients, notably vitamins and antioxidants, which would otherwise be destroyed by heat. This is the "Virgin oil obtained by first cold pressing" quality.

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Shell processing and use of by-products

The shells of the kernels are not thrown away either. They are processed into powder of various sizes, used as a natural exfoliant in skin care products (scrubs).
What's more, the water used to clean the cores is sent to a methanizer. This system transforms the water into biogas, contributing to energy production.

Plum stone oil: an asset in the kitchen

Plum kernel oil has conquered the gastronomic sector in France, thanks to its subtle taste reminiscent of almonds and frangipane, while adding a complex and distinctive flavor. Initially used by chefs as an alternative to virgin almond oil, it is now being explored for its unique taste properties.

In April 2018, our partner producer won the Gourmet d'or at the international "Les Huiles du Monde" competition, thanks to this innovative and committed plum kernel oil. Evaluated blind by Chefs, it was singled out for its length on the palate, its taste and its aromas. It is also referenced by Alain Ducasse's Collège Culinaire de France, which promotes the art of responsible cooking and selects its partner producers on the basis of their moral values, their supply chain and the quality of their products.

In addition to its undeniable gustatory qualities, this gourmet oil is recognized for its comforting effect, adding a dimension of well-being to its culinary use.

Now accessible to all thanks to Landema, you can easily try it out, for example in the preparation of galette frangipane, madeleines and other pastries.

A treasure for your skin and hair

Cold-extracted plum kernel oil is distinguished by its richness in unsaturated fatty acids, with over 60% oleic acid and around 15% linoleic acid (omega-6), giving it nourishing and moisturizing properties.

Plum oil: fatty acid composition

- Palmitic acid (C16:0): 4 to 9%.
- Stearic acid (C18:0): maximum 3%.
- Oleic acid (C18:1): 60 to 80%.
- Linoleic acid (C18:2): 15 to 25%.

Natural vitamin E content in plum oil

Plum kernel oil contains a notable concentration of tocopherols, around 840 ppm (parts per million), with a predominance of γ-tocopherol (vitamin E), giving this oil great resistance to oxidation.

- Alpha tocopherol: 80 to 100 ppm
- Beta tocopherol: maximum 5 ppm
- Gamma tocopherol: 600 to 750 ppm
- Delta tocopherol: 30 to 50 ppm

Plum oil with benefits for skin and hair

Thanks to its rich and varied composition, plum kernel oil offers numerous benefits for skin and hair:

Nourishing and moisturizing effect of organic plum oil:

Thanks to its richness in fatty acids, it nourishes the superficial layers of the epidermis. What's more, it quickly penetrates the skin without leaving a greasy film, making it an excellent choice for all skin types, including oily and sensitive skin.

Helps repair the skin barrier:

This oil helps restore the skin's lipid balance, strengthening the skin barrier and improving hydration.Vitamin E antioxidant activity of plum oil
Its high vitamin E content, particularly γ-tocopherol, gives plum kernel oil powerful antioxidant properties.

Photoprotection:

The α-tocopherol present in this oil helps protect the skin from damage caused by UV rays, making plum oil a valuable ingredient for sun protection products.

Hair care and organic plum oil:

Plum kernel oil is also beneficial for hair. One of its constituents, vitamin E, plays a crucial role in preventing hair loss by improving skin microcirculation and protecting membrane lipids.

LANDEMA TIP:
Store in a cool, dry place, away from light, heat and temperature variations, to preserve all its benefits.

Organic plum kernel vegetable oil is available in several formats, from 100 ml for everyone to 25 L for professionals:

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And to explore our full range of plant extracts, visit our online store.

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