Oleochemicals are a key ingredient in a wide variety of personal care products that we use every day.
These chemicals come in the form of fats and various oils extracted from biological sources like plants and animals. Because these compounds can be used in place of petrochemicals (petroleum-based products) in several personal, medical, food and industrial applications, they offer an advantage in terms of sustainability.
The sustainability of oleochemicals is further enhanced by a commitment to environmental safety.
This commitment is carried out by utilizing best practices for the usage of nature-based chemicals and maintaining responsible operations at every step in the chemical sourcing, handling, and manufacturing processes.
How Are Oleochemicals Produced?
These chemical substances are most often produced through processes such as water-based hydrolysis or alcohol-based alcoholysis. This oleochemical sourcing derives from organic raw materials like palm, coconut, soybean oil, sunflower seed oil, olive oil and others, as well as animal sources such as lard, and fish and poultry fats.
These are then produced into oleochemicals including fatty acids, fatty alcohols, and methyl esters, with glycerol being a key biproduct. The resulting compounds are used as ingredients in many everyday products for personal, industrial, and pharmaceutical use.
What Are Oleochemicals Used For?
At Cremer, we provide globally sourced oleochemicals for a variety of uses and industries. The most common oleochemical forms are fatty acids, fatty alcohols, esters, and glycerin, which meet the demands of several crucial industries. Some of the most common consumer products that oleochemicals help to create include:
- Soap (bar soap, hand soap, shower gel)
- Shampoo
- Skin lotions and creams
- Fabric softeners
- Toothpaste
- Mouthwash
- Flavor enhancers
- Condiments
- Soup
- Baked goods
- Paint
- Industrial lubricants
- Household cleaners
- Printer Ink
- Pesticides
- And many, many more.
For more information on the makeup and applications for oleochemicals, spec sheets and other data, visit our Oleochemicals page.