Cultivation to commercialization: A holistic view of the moringa oil supply chain

Moringa oleifera, commonly known as the miracle tree, is widely cultivated for its nutritional and industrial benefits. Every part of the tree contributes to nutritional and culinary uses. This study examines the supply chain of moringa oil in Tamil Nadu, a key production region in India. It identifies major stakeholders, supply chain processes and challenges in moringa oil production. Data were collected from farmers, traders, processors, exporters, retailers and consumers through structured interviews, using a snowball sampling method. The study highlights key moringa varieties such as PKM1, ODC3 and Jaffna, commonly used for oil extraction. The researchoutlines different oil extraction techniques, including hydraulic and wood cold press methods and assesses their efficiency. The supply chain is mapped across six major channels, illustrating product flow from farms to consumers, both domestically and internationally. The findings indicate that moringa oil is in high demand across the cosmetics, pharmaceutical and food industries, with a growing global market. Quality standards vary at different stages of the supply chain, affecting pricing and product acceptance. The study emphasizes the need for better supply chain coordination and quality awareness to enhance efficiency and profitability. These insightscontribute to optimizing the moringa oil industry and supporting its sustainable development.