Sustainable Farming and Local Collaboration: Growing Borage for Premium Oils 

In an exclusive collaboration with our UK-based sister company, Premium Crops, we are happy to announce a joint venture focused on the cultivation and harvesting of Borage seeds, that are then processed into premium borage oil.  

This project is more than just a business initiative – it is a testament to sustainable farming, local collaboration, and the happiness of nature. 

Borage, known for its vibrant blue flowers and high oil content, is a unique crop with a relatively short growth cycle.  

Planted towards the end of April or early May, the crop is ready for harvest by the end of August, depending on weather conditions. The harvest involves a traditional method known as “swathing,” – a technique of cutting the crop at its base and laying it down in rows, or “swaths,” directly on the field. The swathed crop is then left to dry naturally in the field for a specific period, usually about 7 to 10 days, depending on the weather conditions. 

This process ensures the seeds are at their optimal quality for oil extraction. 

Borage flowers are a favorite among bees, with each hive producing an average of 100 pots of borage honey. This not only supports the local ecosystem but also enhances the pollination process, leading to a healthier and more robust harvest. As one farmer put it, “Few plants are more attractive to bees than Borage!” 

As we continue to work with over 20 farmers across the UK, we are proud to contribute to the preservation of bee populations while producing a high-quality oil product. 

Our collaboration with local farmers is at the heart of this project. With over 20 farmers involved and plans to expand in the coming years, this partnership will benefit the local agricultural community.  

The farmers receive seeds from Premium Crops and are guided through the growing process. Once harvested, the seeds are cleaned using state-of-the-art equipment provided by Premium Crops. Cefetra have purchased a new mobile color sorter which will be used to clean all Borage, ensuring that only the best seeds are processed into oil.  

Rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), it is highly valued for its numerous applications, including skincare, where it helps hydrate dry or irritated skin, as well as in dietary supplements that support joint health and reduce inflammation.  

Borage oil is also widely used in pet food formulations, boosting the nutritional profile and supporting fur health in dogs and cats. 

By working with local farmers and employing sustainable practices, we are proud to contribute to the production of the best quality of borage oil available on the market.  

“As we prepare for the upcoming borage crop, our focus remains on optimizing the growing and harvesting process to ensure another successful yield. With plans to expand our collaboration to include even more local farmers across the UK, we are poised to meet the increasing demand for borage oil” 

“We look forward to continuing this journey with our dedicated partners and are eager to see what the next season holds.”  

– says Tom Witte – commercial director of Cefetra Premium Oils