If you’re entering the cashew export market, understanding kernel grades is essential. Buyers specify grades precisely, and your processing equipment must be capable of consistently producing them.
What Do the Numbers Mean?
The numbers in cashew grades (W180, W240, W320, W450) refer to the number of kernels per pound of weight. So W180 means approximately 180 kernels per pound — these are the largest, most valuable kernels. W450 contains about 450 kernels per pound, meaning smaller nuts.
Common Export Grades
- WW180 — Jumbo. Premium price. Requires careful handling to avoid breakage.
- WW240 — Large. High demand from retail markets.
- WW320 — Most traded grade globally. Strong demand from food manufacturers.
- WW450 — Small. Good for confectionery and ingredient uses.
- Splits / Pieces — Lower value but steady demand from food processing.
How Grading Machines Work
Automatic grading machines use vibrating mesh screens of different aperture sizes to separate kernels by diameter. Higher-end machines add weight-based sorting for greater accuracy.
3ADi’s grading machines can be configured for your target grade mix. Contact us to discuss your requirements.