The Fer à Cheval soap factory promotes short circuits and innovates with a 100% olive Marseille Soap.
The recipe in Colbert's Edict dates back to 1688, and stipulates that authentic Marseille soap must contain a minimum of 72% olive oil and no animal fats. With the development of the colonies, Marseille became a major import port, and certain innovations were introduced. These included the arrival of certain oils that dried better or smelled less strong. Palm oil from Southeast Asia was introduced at the end of the 18th century, as was copra oil from Africa, South America and Asia, which soapmakers continue to use in olive formulas for its solidifying power.
For 165 years, we've been respecting the traditional know-how of Colbert's Edict. The Fer à Cheval soap factory is a member of the UPSM (union des professionnels du savon de Marseille), which campaigns for the true recipe of Savon de Marseille, i.e. 5-stage production in cauldrons according to Colbert's Edict, 4 ingredients only (vegetable oils, soda, water, sea salt) and production around the Marseilles basin. Today, we go one step further and strive for perfection. At present, we're the only ones in the business to respect the original recipe. It's a return to our roots!
Committed for several years to a CSR approach (100% recyclable packaging, Ecocert certification), we are now promoting short circuits with our 100% Olive formula, the fruit of 2 years' development. Made exclusively with oils from the Mediterranean basin, this new responsible formula reduces the soap-maker's carbon footprint while respecting Colbert's Edit. An innovation in the industry. A return to the origins of Marseille soap.
