Classification
Product TypeRaw Material
Product FormShelled, dried kernel
Industry PositionPrimary Agricultural Product (processed kernel for trade)
Raw Material
Market
India is a major processor and exporter of shelled cashew kernels (HS 080132), with cultivation concentrated in peninsular states along the west and east coasts. APEDA notes the processing industry’s structural reliance on imported raw cashew nuts alongside domestic production. Kerala—especially Kollam—has a long-established cashew processing base linked to export trade, supported by proximity to ports such as Kollam and Kochi. Export specifications for WW240 commonly follow international sizing conventions (220–240 kernels per pound) and low-moisture, hermetically sealed packing to protect quality.
Market RoleMajor processor and exporter of cashew kernels; structurally reliant on imported raw cashew nuts for processing capacity
Domestic RoleSignificant domestic consumption market alongside export demand for kernels
Specification
Physical Attributes- Whole kernel definition: characteristic whole-kernel shape with not more than 1/8 broken off (whole/W designation).
- Fancy/white whole lots are specified by uniform light coloration (e.g., white/light yellow/pale ivory) and freedom from live infestation and visible mold in export specifications.
- Defect control commonly includes limits for breakage and tolerances for lower size grades within a lot.
Compositional Metrics- Moisture commonly specified at 3%–5% (loss-on-drying method) in export specifications.
- Oxidation quality parameters may include Free Fatty Acids (max 1.5% as oleic acid) and Peroxide Value (max 5 meq/kg) in export specifications.
Grades- Whole size codes commonly used in trade: 180, 210, 240 (WW240/W240), 320, 450.
- Color/quality classes in common buyer specifications include fancy/white, scorched, and blemished categories.
Packaging- Hermetically sealed, clean, dry, leakproof containers; export specifications commonly prohibit internal paper liners and require outer cartons free of infestation/visible mold.
- Modified-atmosphere practice may use food-grade CO2 (minimum 60%) with nitrogen balance, depending on buyer specification.
- Carton strength and labeling elements (e.g., grade, net weight, country of origin, allergen marking, lot/date codes) are commonly specified for export programs.
Supply Chain
Value Chain- Raw cashew nut sourcing (domestic + imported) → roasting/conditioning → shelling → drying → peeling (testa removal) → grading (e.g., W240/WW240) → hermetic packing → exporter dispatch.
- Kerala processing hubs (notably Kollam) connect labor-intensive processing capacity with export logistics via nearby ports (e.g., Kollam and Kochi).
Temperature- Quality preservation emphasizes cool, dry storage to reduce rancidity risk; export specifications often reference cool storage conditions as best practice for tree nuts.
Atmosphere Control- Buyer specifications may require hermetic packing and, in some cases, controlled gas composition (e.g., CO2/N2) to reduce infestation risk and protect quality.
Shelf Life- Export specifications commonly assume long shelf stability when moisture is controlled and packaging integrity is maintained (e.g., multi-month to multi-year storage expectations under proper conditions).
Freight IntensityLow
Transport ModeSea
Risks
Food Safety HighAflatoxin non-compliance is a trade-stopping risk for cashew kernels: exceeding India’s FSSAI limits for nuts (and/or importing-market limits) can lead to rejection, recalls, or prolonged holds, disrupting shipments and damaging exporter credibility.Implement mycotoxin control plans: strict moisture control, lot-based sampling, accredited laboratory testing for total aflatoxins/aflatoxin B1, and supplier segregation for higher-risk raw nut lots.
Labor And Social MediumOccupational health issues in cashew processing (notably shelling/peeling/grading roles) can create buyer audit findings and operational disruption risk if workplace controls and worker protections are inadequate.Strengthen OHS controls in processing units (PPE for shelling/peeling, ergonomic seating and rest breaks, ventilation/smoke control, health monitoring) and maintain documented compliance for buyer audits.
Supply Chain MediumThe Indian cashew kernel industry’s reliance on imported raw cashew nuts can expose processors/exporters to upstream supply disruptions and price volatility, affecting throughput and contract fulfillment.Diversify raw cashew nut sourcing origins, use forward procurement/contracting where feasible, and maintain buffer inventory policies aligned to processing schedules and shipping commitments.
Sustainability- Climate shocks and pest pressure can reduce domestic raw cashew nut availability and continuity of processing supply, as noted in Kerala cashew cultivation/industry context.
Labor & Social- Cashew processing in Kerala is labor-intensive and employs large numbers of workers (predominantly women) across shelling, peeling, grading, roasting, and packing.
- Occupational health risks have been documented among cashew processing workers in Kollam district, including musculoskeletal, respiratory, and dermatological problems associated with processing tasks.
Standards- Association of Food Industries (AFI) — Specifications for Cashew Kernels (buyer specification widely referenced for U.S.-bound trade)
FAQ
What does the cashew kernel grade WW240 (W240) mean?WW240 (often written as W240) refers to a whole-kernel size grade with about 220–240 kernels per pound (roughly 485–530 per kilogram), which is a common sizing convention in international buyer specifications.
Which Indian regions are most associated with cashew cultivation and kernel supply?APEDA describes cashew cultivation in India as mainly concentrated in peninsular/coastal states, including Maharashtra, Karnataka, Kerala and Goa on the west coast, and Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal on the east coast, with additional cultivation in some other regions.
What is the most critical compliance risk for cashew kernels from India?Aflatoxin control is a key trade risk: FSSAI’s contaminant regulations set limits for nuts, including total aflatoxins and aflatoxin B1. Shipments that fail mycotoxin requirements can face rejection or delays, so routine testing and moisture control are essential.