From the mid-19th century to the Second World War, Marseille's soap factories multiplied. There were more than a hundred soap factories in Marseille. They were powerful, and often owned by large Marseilles families. Around 30% of the population worked directly or indirectly in this industry. Marseille soap, internationally recognized for its effectiveness, was exported all over the world, particularly to our colonies.
In 1906, the words "Extra pure 72% oils" were defined as a guarantee of quality: chemist François Merklen set the percentage of vegetable oil in Marseille soaps at a minimum of 72%. This percentage was necessary to avoid fraud, where the proportion of water could reach up to 50% of the soap. With this level of water, the soap would lose half its weight in just a few uses.
The "72% oil" label is therefore a guarantee of the quality of authentic Marseille Soap, assuring you that it is made from at least 72% vegetable oils, rounded out by soda, water and salt.
