FAQs
Find detailed answers to your questions about the characteristics, benefits and origins of our natural and organic oils.
If you cannot find what you are looking for, do not hesitate to contact us.
Sourcing
Who are our suppliers?
We have always sourced our raw materials directly from producers, without intermediaries. This allows us to maintain a closer relationship with them and ensures they receive fair compensation.
Our suppliers include:
-Prune pit producers: We purchase prune pits to manufacture our plum oil and exfoliating powders made from prune pit shells.
-Partner farmers: We buy seeds (camelina, safflower, hemp, chia, pumpkin seeds, etc.) that we press to obtain the virgin vegetable oils featured in our catalog.
Do we have selection criteria for raw material purchases?
Our procurement is governed by specifications established with each of our suppliers. These specifications outline our quality requirements for the raw materials involved.
Each batch of seeds is then analyzed before purchase, according to several criteria, to ensure its quality.
How are raw materials stored?
Our raw materials are stored on-site in cold rooms with controlled humidity levels and under a protective atmosphere. These sound conservation practices, combined with our regular stock analyses, enable us to produce extra virgin oils of the highest quality!
Products
What does “first cold pressed” mean?
All our oils are produced using the “first cold press” method. This means that the seeds/almonds are pressed slowly to minimize heating of the press and, consequently, overheating of the produced oil.
We monitor the oil temperature and ensure it remains below 55°C.
This process allows our oils to retain all their qualities: no denaturation of fatty acids, no alteration of natural vitamins, and preservation of organoleptic properties.
Do we use preservatives, additives or other products in the manufacture of our products?
Absolutely not! Our products are 100% natural and their manufacturing process is purely mechanical, with no chemicals involved.
Our oils are obtained from pressed seeds/nuts, the raw oil is then filtered and stored under a protective atmosphere (which does not mix with the oil).
Our exfoliating powders are simply made from grinding prune pits (the almond having been removed for oil production).
How are oils stored and what are our storage recommendations?
All our oils are stored in containers where the surface air is replaced with nitrogen. This process, called inerting, allows our oils to retain all their benefits because replacing air with nitrogen prevents the oxidation of fatty acids and their denaturation.
These containers are all stored in a cold room (10°C) away from light and humidity.
For storing our oils at home, we recommend that you also protect them from light and recommend storage in a cool place (oils may solidify in the refrigerator, but this does not affect their quality in any way!).
In what formats are our products sold?
Our oils are available in various formats to suit your needs:
-Tinted glass bottles: 10cL or 25cL
-Food-grade PEHD cans: 1kg, 4.5kg, or 25kg
-Food-grade PEHD drums: 220 L
Our exfoliating powders are available in 1kg sterilized autoclave metal cans.
Are release analyzes carried out on each batch?
Yes! All our batches are released for sale after receiving analyses that comply with our specifications (professional web account).
For each of our batches, we provide our customers with analysis reports upon request, which are also available on our professional area. These reports will inform you about the quality criteria of our oils and their detailed composition (fatty acid profile and vitamin E).
Is it possible to extend the BBD of an oil purchased from Perles de Gascogne?
Yes, we conduct requalification analyses for batches with an expiry date (BBD) of less than 6 months. Based on the results of these analyses, the BBD can be extended by an additional year.
In case of batch requalification, we issue new analysis reports updated with the obtained results.
Use
Can we use our oils in cooking?
Yes! All of our oils are food-grade (and cosmetic-grade). Our oils can all be used in cooking, but it is important to respect the recommended temperatures for each oil. This will ensure that all the natural benefits of our oils are preserved, which you can find in our Food catalog!
Our oils can all be used cold: for dressing cold or hot dishes (but which are already cooked!).
Only our plum and hazelnut oils have a composition that allows them to be used for cooking. Please note that cooking should not exceed a temperature of 180°C.
Can we apply our pure oils directly to skin and/or hair?
Yes! Our oils are excellent for direct application to your skin and/or hair. On your face for deep nourishment, on your body for extra softness, on your hair as a pre-shampoo mask or a few drops after brushing to nourish and shine your hair… the possibilities are endless!
Check out our Beauty catalog to find your perfect oil!
Is it possible to integrate our products into your cosmetic formulations?
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