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The manufacturing process of authentic Marseille soap is unique.
Also known as the “Marseille process” or “high-fire” cooking, it refers to a traditional cauldron-based soap-making method passed down through generations. These steps are essential for obtaining quality soap.
The entire manufacturing process takes approximately 14 days, including the main cooking stage, called the “boiling“, which transforms the soap paste under the action of soda and vegetable oils.
Les étapes de la cuite :
ÉTAPE 1 – L’empâtage (ou saponification)
The soap-making process involves transforming vegetable oils into soap using lye and heat in a large cauldron.
The mixture is heated and brought to a boil. Gradually, through the heating process, it transforms into soap.
ÉTAPE 2 – Le relargage
The soap, insoluble in salt water, is washed with sea salt. This operation causes the glycerin and salt lye to settle at the bottom of the cauldron, while the soap separates from some of its water.
ÉTAPE 3 – La cuisson
The soap paste is cooked for several days at a temperature that can reach 120°C, under the supervision of the master soap maker.
This step allows for complete saponification and the total transformation of fats into soap.
ÉTAPE 4 – Le lavage
The soap is washed several times with clean water to remove impurities and obtain its “Extra Pure” characteristic.
ÉTAPE 5 – La liquidation
A final wash with pure water transforms the soap into a smooth and homogeneous paste, guaranteeing the quality of genuine Marseille soap.
La finalisation
- The pouring of the soap: the hot soap paste is poured into large molds.
- Drying: the soap dries for 48 hours in the open air
- Cutting: once dry, the soap is cut into 35kg bars
- Molding: two types of marking – hand-stamped for bars, or machine-molded for the cubes from the Marius Fabre soap factory.
- The stamping: on all six sides, which characterizes true Marseille soap
Only the expertise of the master soap maker, passed down through generations, guarantees the success of genuine Marseille soap. Although made using a specific process, Marseille soap does not have a protected designation of origin, which leaves room for many abuses. It is a traditional craft unique in the world!
To learn more about the UPSM label, which certifies soap factories respecting the traditional process, and to learn how to recognize a real Marseille soap, see our article.
