Palm oil in soap: choose consciously instead of judging prematurely

Are you looking to watch out for palm oil when buying soap? This is an understandable question. However, the answer consists of more than just a green checkmark next to palm oil-free labels. The origin and cultivation deserve as much attention as the name of the oil itself.

Where the problem lies

When species-rich forests are cleared for new plantations, valuable habitats are lost. The consequences affect animals, plants, and the local people. Palm oil is therefore rightfully part of the discussion regarding responsible raw material sourcing.

Why switching oils does not solve everything

Oil palms provide a lot of oil on a relatively small area. For the same amount of another vegetable oil, more land may be required. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) therefore warns against viewing a simple swap as an easy solution for protecting biodiversity. Palm oil-free is not automatically synonymous with a better overall balance.

What you can recognize on the packaging

Sodium Palmate refers to saponified palm oil. This name does not state anything about cultivation methods or verifiable certification. For other ingredients, the raw material origin cannot always be clearly derived from the INCI name. In such cases, asking the manufacturer is more sensible than making assumptions.

Olive soap also needs an ingredient list

A name such as Olive fruit soap does not mean that it contains only olive oil. We do not derive either palm oil-freedom or any certification from this here. Ask for current details if this attribute is important to you.

What you can do regardless of the formula: use up a purchased piece completely and store it in a dry place, for example on a bamboo soap dish. You can find tips on this under using up soap leftovers.

For further reading: IUCN on palm oil and biodiversity.