The emu is the largest flightless bird and is native to Australia. The bird resembles something of a short ostrich, at 6.5 feet tall with a long neck and brown or black feathers. Emus have been used by Aborigines in Australia as a source of meat, weapons, tools and even oil. Emu oil is derived from the fat of the emu and is used to treat wounds as well as in beauty and health products. There are many manufacturers of products containing emu oil, so how do you determine the authenticity of emu oil?
Step 1
Look for pure emu oil. There are many products made with emu oil, such as lotions and moisturizers, soaps and rubs that are not entirely made of emu oil and contain other ingredients. Pure emu oil should be the only ingredient in the product, and it should be yellowish to milky white.
Step 2
Look for a stamp from the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Australia. This is the organization that regulates medicines and medical supplies through rigorous testing and processing through a licensed plant. This seal from the administration ensures the product has met all standards for pure emu oil, and products that qualify carry "AUST L" or "AUST R" numbers or a statement from the administration on the packaging of the oil.
Step 3
Look for contact information such as phone numbers, addresses and emails of the company on the product packaging. Consumers should be able to contact the company and make inquiries about its product, from where the oil comes from to the packaging and shipping of the product. In particular, look for toll-free numbers so you can speak with a live person who oversees the manufacturing process. Ask about the conditions on the farm and if there are any antibiotics, steroids or hormones used in the raising of the emus.
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