SOCIO-ECONOMIC ANALYSIS OF SHEA BUTTER (VITELLIRIA PARADOXA C.F. GAERTN.) CONSUMPTION PATTERN AMONG HOUSEHOLDS IN ILORIN EAST LOCAL GOVERNMENT KWARA STATE, NIGERIA

Shea butter remains a vital multipurpose product in West African households, yet limited research exists on the socio-economic factors influencing its consumption at the community level. This study assessed the consumption patterns and socio-economic determinants of shea butter use among households in Ilorin East Local Government Area, Kwara State, Nigeria. The study aimed to evaluate the frequency and purpose of use, identify influencing factors, and examine the relationship between household characteristics and shea butter adoption. A total of 100 respondents were selected using a multi-stage sampling technique, and data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, and multiple regression analysis.Findings revealed that 61.0% of households use shea butter daily, mainly for skincare (52.0%), haircare (17.0%), and cooking (16.0%). Local markets were the dominant source (57.0%), and quality (52.0%) and affordability (35.0%) were key purchase drivers. While 74.0% considered quality before buying, only 36.0% took steps to improve the product before use. Chi-square analysis showed no statistically significant association between demographic variables (e.g., age, gender, education) and consumption patterns (p > 0.05). Similarly, regression analysis found that variables such as income, household size, and cultural beliefs did not significantly predict usage levels (p > 0.05), though baseline consumption remained high across groups.The study concludes that shea butter consumption is widely embedded in household routines and shaped more by cultural norms and perceived quality than by income or education. It recommends targeted awareness campaigns, quality assurance systems, and support for women-led marketing initiatives to sustain and scale household adoption of shea butter products.