Until now, the extracts have been produced in powder form; however, through a method developed at the Latvian State Institute of Wood Chemistry, the company’s specialists, working in close collaboration with the institute, have introduced a new process for oleogel production.

Oleogel is a gel-like substance, formed by colloidal particles of birch bark triterpene extracts combined with components of vegetable oil, creating a stable suspension. This technology enables the substance to be used in the development of cosmetic emulsions, particularly through cold Pickering emulsion technology. It opens up new opportunities for sustainable and innovative cosmetic products.

“This marks an important step in our research and innovation journey, moving from powder to a unique gel form that creates high added value from birch bark – previously used in industry mostly for energy production. We are pleased to be discovering new ways of utilising it,”

says Māris Būmanis, Member of the Executive Board of “Latvijas Finieris”.

Oleogel production employs technologies and materials that comply with COSMOS Ecocert requirements.

With this achievement, “Latvijas Finieris” reaffirms its commitment to developing sustainable solutions and advancing birch wood by-products into high value-added products.