Cashew kernels are obtained through factory processing (roasting/ steaming, shelling and peeling) of cashew nuts. The Cashewnut Shell Liquid (CNSL) is a by-product obtained while processing cashew nuts.

Cashew Kernels are graded into white and scorched wholes, pieces, splits, butts etc.. depending on the shape, size & color of the kernel. India prescribes 33 different grades of cashew kernels. Only 26 grades are commercially available and exported worldwide. They are:

W - 180, is the ' King of Cashew ' - They are larger in size and very expensive.
W - 210, are popularly known as ' Jumbo ' nuts.
W - 240, it is an attractive grade which is reasonably priced.
W - 320, are the most popular among cashew kernels and highest in terms of availability, worldwide.
W - 450, are the smallest and cheapest white whole kernels and hence the favorite among low priced whole grades.

Scorched wholes are another grade of cashew kernels, which have a slight brown color due to longer roasting. They have all the other characteristics of white kernels and have the same nutritional qualities.

Butts, splits and pieces are priced lower and are ideal for cooking, preparation of sweets and savoury snacks.

Quality Control and Pre-shipment Inspection

Exports of cashew kernels from India are normally subject to voluntary quality control and pre-shipment inspection. Inspection of cashews is being conducted under the consignment-wise inspection. It is ensured that the product is processed and packed as per the standards prescribed, by drawing samples from the finished product. Export of roasted and salted cashew kernels are also normally subjected to voluntary quality control.

Packing and Standard Weight

Cashew kernels in bulk are packed in four gallon prime tins with a net weight of 11.34 Kg (Or 25 lbs) in each tin. The filled tins are then vacuumised and filled with carbon-di-oxide gas and sealed. Two such tins of the same grade are packed in a carton for export. The net weight of each carton is thus 22.68 Kg. (50 lbs.). Some manufacturers also pack in tins of 10kg net to suit the requirements of buyers in certain markets. Recently,some exporters have started using flexible packs instead of tins as many buyers opt for new generation flexible packs.

Cashew shipments from India are mainly in 2Oft. containers which carry about 650-700 cartons. Requests for less than a container load are also accepted by exporters in India. Freight is charged per Cubic Metre on volume basis. Freight for full container load is fixed and the same is cheaper than the freight for part container load (LCL).

Contract Terms

1 . Contracts are normally made on FOB or C&F basis.

2. Pricing in international trade in cashew is in US Dollars per lb. Current and forward price quotations in US $ and other currencies are available on request directly from member exporters of the Council.

3. Business in cashew is done on an offer and acceptance basis between buyers and sellers by telephone, telex or cable, since the prices are subject to frequent fluctuations.

4. The cost of insurance is borne by the buyer.

5. At the time of contract, the month of shipment, grade, price etc., are to be clearly indicated. Sometimes, exporters offer commodity for shipments upto six months in advance.

6. Export dealings are usually finalised on the basis of the opening of 100% irrevocable Letter of Credit by the buyer in favour of the shipper. The LC is opened immediately on execution of contract or one month prior to shipment.

Other Cashew Nut Related Information

India is the largest producer and exporter of cashew kernels in the world. Over 65 per cent of the world export of cashew kernels is accounted for by India. Indian cashews are consumed in as many as 60 countries all over the world, the major markets being the United States, the United Kingdom, Japan, Netherlands, Australia, Canada, Germany Hong Kong, Singapore, New Zealand and Middle East countries. The Indian cashew kernel is well acclaimed for its good quality, taste and appearance.

Indian cashews are available with prominent importers in USA, Canada, Japan, the Middle East, Singapore, Australia, U.K. and other EEC countries. There are regular shipping facilities from India to all ports of the world. Major shipments from India take place through Cochin port. Other ports are Tuticorin, Mangalore, Chennai and Mumbai.