[video] Natural Extraction in Action: Traditional vs. Supercritical Fluid Techniques

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 'Supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) is a very specialized process,' explained Arumugam Sivakumar, Ph.D., of Sami Labs/Sabinsa.

"[Traditionally], products are extracted using polar solvents, and the temperatures at which these extracts are taken are much higher. ... and besides the actives, other ingredients that come out can include byproducts, which may or may not be desirable. Then we have to do purification processes.

"When it comes to SFE, this technology is based on liquid carbon dioxide compressed into a liquid under pressure, so it does not require the use of these solvents. ... It is completely natural and can be performed on anything nonpolar in nature."

Hear more about these processes and go behind the scenes with Cosmetics & Toiletries for a closer look at our tour of the farms and production sites of Sabinsa:

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