Understanding Raw Cashew Nut Grades: A Comprehensive Guide for Processors

Raw cashew grading is a critical step in cashew processing that significantly impacts processing efficiency, kernel quality, and ultimately, profitability. Let’s dive deep into the world of raw cashew grades and their importance in the processing chain.

The Basics of Raw Cashew Grading

Raw cashew nuts come in various sizes, shapes, and qualities. The primary grading parameters include:

Size (count per kg)
Moisture content
Foreign matter content
Void nuts percentage
Out-turn (estimated kernel yield)
Defects (including immature nuts, damaged nuts, and discolored nuts)

Raw Cashew Nut Characteristics by Origin: A Global Overview

Raw cashew nuts vary significantly in their characteristics depending on their origin. Understanding these variations is crucial for processors to optimize their processing parameters and achieve maximum efficiency.

African Cashews

West African Cashews (Benin, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Nigeria, Burkina Faso)

Generally smaller sized nuts
Count ranges from 210-235 nuts per kg (predominantly)
Higher moisture content (10-12%) due to humid climate
Out-turn ranging from 44-47 lbs per bag
Known for consistent moisture levels within batches
Common defects: void nuts and immature kernels

East African Cashews

Tanzania

Medium to large-sized nuts
Count ranges from 180-210 nuts per kg
Moderate moisture content (8-10%)
Out-turn ranging from 48-52 lbs per bag
Known for better kernel yield
Premium quality in international markets

Mozambique

Medium sized nuts
Count ranges from 190-215 nuts per kg
Lower moisture content (7-9%)
Out-turn ranging from 46-50 lbs per bag
Higher percentage of whole kernels

Asian Cashews

India

Varied sizes depending on region
Premium grades: 180-190 nuts per kg
Standard grades: 190-210 nuts per kg
Moisture content: 8-10%
Out-turn ranging from 50-54 lbs per bag
Known for superior kernel quality
Regional variations:
Kerala: Larger nuts, better quality
Maharashtra: Medium size, consistent quality
Tamil Nadu: Mixed sizes, good kernel yield

Vietnam

Consistent medium to large size
Count ranges from 180-200 nuts per kg
Controlled moisture content (8-9%)
Out-turn ranging from 48-52 lbs per bag
Excellent processing standards
High whole kernel recovery

Cambodia

Medium sized nuts
Count ranges from 190-215 nuts per kg
Moderate moisture content (8-10%)
Out-turn ranging from 46-50 lbs per bag
Growing importance in global market

Indonesia

Generally larger sized nuts
Count ranges from 170-190 nuts per kg
Higher moisture content (9-11%)
Out-turn ranging from 48-52 lbs per bag
Limited but growing production

Key Quality Parameters by Region

Moisture Content Range

West Africa: 10-12%
East Africa: 7-10%
India: 8-10%
Vietnam: 8-9%
Cambodia: 8-10%
Indonesia: 9-11%

Nut Count Range (per kg)

West Africa: 210-235
East Africa: 180-215
India: 180-210
Vietnam: 180-200
Cambodia: 190-215
Indonesia: 170-190

Average Out-turn (lbs per bag)

West Africa: 44-47
East Africa: 46-52
India: 50-54
Vietnam: 48-52
Cambodia: 46-50
Indonesia: 48-52

Impact on Processing

Cutting Machine Settings

Different regions require different calibration settings:

West African nuts need smaller cutting blade gaps
East African and Asian nuts require medium blade gaps
Indonesian nuts need larger blade gaps

Steam Cooking Parameters

Variations in cooking time based on origin:

West African: Longer cooking time due to higher moisture
East African: Standard cooking time
Asian: Shorter cooking time due to controlled moisture

Peeling Efficiency

Recovery rates vary by origin:

West African: 65-70% whole kernel recovery
East African: 70-75% whole kernel recovery
Asian: 75-80% whole kernel recovery

Recommendations for Processors

Storage Considerations

Segregate nuts by origin
Monitor moisture levels regularly
Maintain proper ventilation
Follow FIFO (First In, First Out) principle

Processing Optimization

Adjust machine settings based on origin
Monitor recovery rates by origin
Train operators on origin-specific handling
Maintain detailed processing records

Raw cashew grading is not just a preliminary step but a crucial process that influences the entire processing chain. Proper grading ensures optimal machine performance, reduces processing costs, and maximizes kernel recovery. As the industry continues to evolve, investing in proper grading systems and understanding their importance becomes increasingly vital for processors aiming to maintain competitiveness in the global market.