We frequently receive questions about why Oshadhi (body) butter or hydrosols in large quantities are offered in plastic packaging. There are various reasons for this, and we want to transparently explain the background. Our primary goal is to provide you with products and packaging of the highest possible quality.
In principle, our essential oils, hydrosols (in small quantities of 100 ml), and base oils are always bottled in blue glass. This material protects against UV radiation, is chemically impermeable, and ensures the long-term stability of the product. Blue glass, in particular, is known for these positive properties. However, the production of blue glass is energy-intensive and expensive. Despite this, we place great importance on using this high-quality material.
Oshadhi shea butter, as well as other butters and hydrosols, are packaged in plastic containers for several reasons. One reason is the availability of a bottle or jar in the quantities required by Oshadhi. Compared to most cosmetics manufacturers, we are a small-scale producer. For example, there is simply no suitable blue glass container available for our butter jars. Plastics are valued for their lightweight, shatterproof, durable, and versatile properties. In fact, their ecological footprint is relatively better compared to glass. This is partly due to the well-functioning recycling system for plastics in Europe and the fact that glass production is extremely energy-intensive. When shipping large quantities overseas, the lower weight and reduced risk of breakage are also decisive factors.
When selecting plastic for our large containers, we ensure that we use only certified plastic, which is mostly recycled and can be further recycled. Additionally, the containers we use comply with food safety regulations, meaning they are suitable for safe contact with food and cosmetic products. Containers that meet legal requirements are regularly tested for their durability.
Plastic is a widely debated material, yet it has properties that are difficult or highly resource-intensive to replace with other materials. We are aware of the environmental impact caused by improper plastic disposal. Therefore, we urge everyone to contribute to the sustainable use of plastics through correct disposal.
Completely eliminating plastic is challenging for us and, in many cases, not practical. We appreciate the versatile possibilities this material offers for the safe production and distribution of our products. That is why we carefully evaluate which packaging is most suitable for each product. These decisions are made while considering factors such as quality, product protection, shipping requirements, production processes, and areas of application.