Macadamia Responsible Sourcing
A program that benefits the entire supply chain
Macadamia is best known for its nuts used in the food industry. However, macadamia oil is also widely used in cosmetic applications for its light emolliency and skin benefits. Cargill sources macadamia from MTI Natural in Malawi, an African country that grows 3% of the global macadamia nut output. The nuts are grown by plantations and smallholder farmers. While most are sold to food processing facilities, up to 50% of harvested nuts do not meet food standards due to damage or defects.
Until recently, these had no economic value and were used for compost or incinerated. Since 2020, MTI Natural started purchasing these non-food grade nuts to produce macadamia oil, helping smallholder farmers create additional income. Furthermore, the cake produced after oil extraction is used as high-protein animal feed, completing the valorization circle.
Empowering women and boosting the local economy
Christine, the general manager, and Naomi, the production manager, lead MTI Natural. The facility in Blantyre employs 16 staff, offering skilled jobs in a city facing economic challenges.
Importantly, MTI Natural provides steady employment to its staff all year by working with several crops and spreading out production. Since 2021, MTI has produced over $900,000 worth of macadamia oil, with 100% annual growth.
Investing in skills and equipment
MTI Natural invests in training and upskilling staff. Logistics are managed by Isaac Gwede, ensuring smooth shipping processes. Large bladders of oil are shipped from Malawi to the US. Cargill supports MTI Natural with equipment expansion, resulting in higher yields and a reliable supply chain.
Community engagement: Holistic Care Malawi
With profits from their business, MTI Natural supports Holistic Care, an organization that supports children in Blantyre with three different initiatives:
• Holistic Care Nursery school:
Offering early childhood development to orphaned and vulnerable children. The nursery school also offers meals to the children daily. Since its inception, the nursery school has graduated over 400 bright children and currently opens its doors to 35 children each year.
• Support to chronically ill children, elderly people, and a specific widows program:
Providing home-based care and visits.
• Youth development program.
