Meadowfoam seed oil
Meadowfoam seed oil is pressed or extracted from the seeds of Limnanthes alba, a plant native to the US Pacific Northwest and grown commercially in Oregon. More than 95% of its fatty acids are long-chain (C20 and C22) fatty acids that are unusual among seed oils, which makes it very resistant to oxidation. It is used almost entirely in cosmetics and is usually bought as a refined oil.
Suppliers sell different products under the same name. Specify the one you need.
Refined, bleached and deodorized oil, the standard cosmetic grade with low color and odor.
Less-processed oil from a small number of suppliers.
Meadowfoam estolides, esters and other derivatives sold as separate cosmetic ingredients.
Compare each result with your own specification when the lot arrives.
Store sealed at room temperature away from direct heat and light. The oil is unusually stable to oxidation, so it keeps longer than most seed oils, but containers should still be closed between uses. Shelf life is set by the supplier specification.
Supply comes from a small growing area, so note crop year and supplier lot for each delivery. Record color, odor and peroxide value and rotate first-expiry, first-out.
Facts from regulators and standards bodies, each linked to its source.
Health Canada's Natural Health Products Ingredients Database lists Limnanthes Alba (Meadowfoam) Seed Oil, from the seed, as a non-medicinal emollient and occlusive agent for topical use.
Source: webprod.hc-sc.gc.ca (opens in a new tab)This is general information, not regulatory advice. Status differs by country and by how the ingredient is used, so check the rules for your product and market.
Manufacturers and distributors whose own websites say they sell it.
Manufacturer · London, United Kingdom
UK specialty chemicals group known for rheology modifiers and antiperspirant actives; its personal care range also lists meadowfoam seed oil and shea butter.
Distributor · Oxford, CT
Connecticut supplier, trading as Praan Naturals, of certified organic and conventional carrier oils, butters, waxes, clays and botanicals for personal care manufacturers.
Distributor · Des Plaines, IL
Illinois supplier of bulk oils, butters, waxes and soap-making bases, owned by Columbus Vegetable Oils, selling to soap makers and small personal care brands.
Suppliers are in alphabetical order and none pays to appear. Each claim is checked against the supplier’s own website on the date shown. Ask for the specification sheet and a recent COA before you order, and confirm details with the supplier.
Common forms include refined oil, organic or virgin oil and derivatives. Ask each supplier for the specification sheet of the exact grade they quote.
Expect fatty acid profile, peroxide value, free fatty acids, iodine and saponification values and microbiology, each with its method, specification and result for that lot.
Store sealed at room temperature away from direct heat and light. The oil is unusually stable to oxidation, so it keeps longer than most seed oils, but containers should still be closed between uses. Shelf life is set by the supplier specification.
Health Canada's Natural Health Products Ingredients Database lists Limnanthes Alba (Meadowfoam) Seed Oil, from the seed, as a non-medicinal emollient and occlusive agent for topical use.
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