Émile Noël – Virgin, first cold-pressed, organic oils philosophy
Our relationship with this pioneering company started at about the same time that Community Foods came in to existence. The founder (Émile Noël), was disgusted by the use of volatile hydrocarbons, such as hexane in the extraction process of oil, and the use of compounds to filter it.

Furthermore, the standard hot press technique used to extract oil, burned it, meaning that the oil had to be bleached, and denatured in order to return it to a palatable state. His philosophy was simple. Start with quality seed, take extraordinary care in the process and ensure that at all times, you would be happy to dress your salad with the oil.

First French Virgin In 1966, Émile Noël was the first “huilerie” in France to produce virgin, “first cold pressed” oils. He employed a continual screw press that allowed vegetable oil to be extracted at low temperature (below 70°C) so that they retained their natural integrity and flavour. Emile, however, went further. Considered as absolutely mad by his peers, he banished hexane from his production plant, and used a series of fine cotton gauzes to clean the oil.

First French organic oils
The company was the first to produce such cold pressed oil, and by taking the extra steps in their process Émile Noël is unique amongst oil producers. In 1972, Émile Noël was the first oil producer in France to crush organic oils and it was at this time that Community commenced its trading relationship with the maitre d’huilerie. We believe that no finer quality oils can be found anywhere. Not simply the process, but the philosophy of the company falls in step with our own ideals.

  Émile Noël started a number of projects in Malawi, dealing with small farmers in the early 80’s and have recently been awarded Fairtrade status for the seed it buys from there. We are very happy to have had this long standing relationship. We consider Émile Noël to be the pioneers and specialists of producing virgin, first cold-pressed organic oils. Visit the home site at www.emilenoel.com