When you think about your daily shower, the last thing that probably comes to mind is deforestation. But if your soap contains palm oil, you might be contributing to one of the biggest environmental crises of our time. Palm oil production is directly linked to large-scale deforestation, habitat destruction, and the endangerment of species like orangutans. At Gentle Moose, we do things differently. Our tallow-based natural soap isn’t just better for your skin—it’s also the better choice for our planet and its wildlife.
The Palm Oil Problem
Palm oil is found in almost everything—from processed foods to cosmetics to, yes, even soap. Its popularity comes from being cheap and versatile, but it comes at a steep cost. To keep up with global demand, massive swaths of tropical rainforests in Indonesia and Malaysia are being cleared to make way for palm oil plantations.
This deforestation destroys critical habitats for endangered species, particularly orangutans. These intelligent, gentle creatures are losing their homes at an alarming rate. According to conservation organizations, over 100,000 Bornean orangutans were lost between 1999 and 2015 due to habitat destruction, much of it driven by palm oil plantations. When forests are cleared, orangutans often become displaced, starving, or even killed by poachers and plantation workers who see them as pests.
Why Tallow-Based Soap Is a Better Alternative
At Gentle Moose, we take a different approach. Our natural soap is tallow-based, meaning it’s made with rendered beef fat instead of palm oil. You might be wondering—why tallow? The answer is simple: it’s a sustainable, waste-reducing ingredient that provides incredible benefits for both your skin and the environment.
Unlike palm oil, which drives deforestation, tallow is an upcycled ingredient sourced from ethically raised animals. Instead of letting this natural byproduct go to waste, we use it to create rich, nourishing soap that lathers beautifully, deeply moisturizes, and lasts longer than many plant-based alternatives. By choosing tallow over palm oil, we’re taking a stand against deforestation and reducing the demand for harmful agricultural practices.
Pictured below: The aftermath of Palm Oil Deforestation practices
Making an Informed Choice
Many brands advertise their soaps as “natural” or “sustainable” while still using palm oil—even the so-called “organic” or “ethically sourced” versions. The reality is that sustainable palm oil certification is flawed, and deforestation continues at a rapid pace. If you want to make a real difference, choosing a palm oil-free soap, like Gentle Moose’s tallow-based bars, is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to help.
A Future Without Deforestation
By switching to tallow-based soap, you’re not just taking better care of your skin—you’re also protecting forests, wildlife, and the planet. Every bar of Gentle Moose soap you use means one less product contributing to habitat destruction. Small choices add up, and together, we can make a big impact.
So the next time you lather up, know that your soap choice matters. Choose Gentle Moose—because your skin deserves the best, and so do the orangutans.