Ayanda African Oils produces both Certified Organic and Non-Certified Organic (but organically grown), or natural, essential oils. Our organic products are certified organic by ECOCERT SA. They inspect our farming and processing facilities to ensure we meet strict organic requirements on an annual basis.
Organic products are farmed and distilled without the use of chemicals such as pesticides and fertilisers. This produces nutrient-rich, fertile soil, which nourishes the plants by keeping chemicals off the land and protecting water quality, plant life, and wildlife.
In rural South Africa, jobs are a lifeline. At Ayanda African Oils, we’re dedicated to creating sustainable opportunities. With over 300 employees, mostly women, on our farms, we’re fostering economic growth and stability. We strive to expand our community impact, upholding the highest standards of social responsibility, occupational health, and safety, guided by our unwavering ethical principles.
At Ayanda African Oils, we’re committed to uplifting our community through various initiatives, including Early Learning Development programs, Orphan support, and Community Farmer development, providing seedlings, expertise, and market access to foster growth and self-sufficiency.
Ayanda African Oils has established itself as a leader in essential oil production, leveraging expertise gained since 2001. Our commitment to quality, sustainability, and environmental responsibility ensures the highest standards in growing, extracting, and manufacturing our aromatic oils.
To this end, the following measures have been implemented:
• When neighbouring FSC-certified fields offered surplus waste wood, Ayanda Africa Oils seized the chance to revolutionise our processing facilities’ sustainability. In 2014, our forward-thinking farmers made the switch to wood-fired boilers, significantly decreasing our reliance on fossil fuels and paving the way for a greener future.
• Ayanda African Oils has implemented a bio- digester system, converting organic waste into methane gas, which fuels one of our distillation units. This renewable energy solution demonstrates our commitment to minimizing environmental impact, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and promoting sustainable manufacturing practices.
• Our fields showcase a closed-loop system, where waste material from distillation is repurposed as nutrient-rich mulch. This eco- friendly practice eliminates waste, reduces soil erosion, and naturally controls pests and weeds.
Ayanda African Oils prioritises continuous improvement in sustainability, embracing new technologies and best practices to minimise our environmental footprint.
