Kern Peel is the visible proof that true upcycling goes beyond the obvious. At Kern Tec, we valorize not only the seeds from apricot, plum and cherry kernels – but also their shells. What was once discarded in fruit processing now becomes a functional, bio-based cosmetic abrasive ingredient.
Made in Germany, Kern Peel is derived from the outer shell of stone fruit pits and processed into highly effective scrubs for natural and certified cosmetics. This zero-waste approach allows us to utilize 100% of the fruit pit – turning even the hardest parts into market-ready, regulatory-compliant ingredients.
With their biodegradable structure, plant-based origin, and natural exfoliant qualities, Kern Peel granulates are the ideal alternative to microplastics and synthetic scrubs. Available in a range of grain sizes and natural color shades, they offer both technical performance and a marketable sustainability story – aligned with the EU’s clean beauty vision and zero-plastic regulations.
Kern Peel is not just a functional ingredient – it's a statement of respect for raw materials, made for brands who want visible sustainability, circularity and clean-label trust, all in one product.
1.2 Product Benefits & USP
- 100% plant-based – no synthetic additives or binders
- Biodegradable Microplastic replacement
- Gentle yet effective exfoliation – optimized granulation
- Naturally colored:
brown (apricot)
orange (plum)
beige (cherry) - Marketable: visible sustainability for storytelling & clean branding
- Fully upcycled: part of the Kern Tec circular portfolio
1.3 General Product Information
Standard Granulation sizes:
(other sizes/intervals upon request.)
Color Guidance
- Apricot Shell: rich brown
- Plum Shell: warm orange
- Cherry Shell: creamy beige
Technical characteristics:
- Mohs Hardness: 3.5–4.2
- Bulk Density: • 0.5–0.8 g/cm³ (depends on particle size)
- Moisture Content: ≤ 10%
- Fibrous Composition:
Cellulose: 20–40%
Hemicellulose: 15–30%
Lignin: 20–55%
Standard packaging options:
- 50 L bags (~25 kg)
- Full pallet: 30 x 25 kg = 750 kg
- 1000 L Big Bags (~500 kg)
- 2000 L Big Bags (~1000 kg)
1.4 Product Details
Kern Peel Apricot
- Shell type: Apricot Kernel (Prunus armeniaca)
- INCI: PRUNUS ARMENIACA SHELL GRANULATE / POWDER
- Natural color: brown
- Request specifications
Kern Pee Plum
- Shell type: Plum Kernel (Prunus domestica)
- INCI: PRUNUS DOMESTICA SHELL GRANULATE / POWDER
- Color: orange-brown
- Request specifications
Kern Peel Cherry
- Shell type: Cherry Kernel (Prunus cerasus)
- INCI: PRUNUS CERASUS SHELL POWDER
- Color: light beige
- Request specifications
1.5 Sustainability & Market Positioning
- 100% upcycled from fruit kernel shell waste
- Biodegradable alternative to microplastics and synthetic abrasives
- Compatible with natural cosmetic and skincare formulations
- Enhanced brand transparency and traceability
- Regulatory alignment: REACH-compliant and future-proof under EU microplastic bans
1.6 Quality & Certifications
- Manufactured in Germany
- Conformity with REACH Regulation
- DIN EN ISO 17516 microbiological compliance
- Heavy metal and PAH tested on request
Kern Tec is a manufacturer and B2B supplier of seeds, pastes, oils and granules for the food and cosmetics industries.
As a producer, manufacturer and supplier, we offer stone fruit pits & kernels (apricot, cherry and plum), as well as products derived from them, such as plant-based drinks, pastes, oils and shell granules for the food and cosmetic industry.
