Cashew kernel grading is one of the most standardised classification systems in the global nut trade — yet for importers and food manufacturers new to cashew procurement, the grading nomenclature is initially opaque. Understanding what the grade codes mean, how they correspond to commercial applications and quality expectations, and which grades typically command price premiums (and why) is essential knowledge for anyone responsible for cashew sourcing. This guide decodes the international cashew grading system and explains what each grade means for procurement decisions.
The International Cashew Council Grading System
Cashew kernels are graded and traded globally using the International Cashew Council (ICC) grading standard, which classifies kernels by size, colour, and physical integrity. The grade code is a letter or combination followed by a number. Whole white grades (W-series) are the most commercially important: W180 refers to 180 whole kernels per pound — the largest, most premium whole cashew grade, sometimes described as “elephant cashews.” W210 (210 kernels/pound), W240 (240 kernels/pound), W320 (the world’s most widely traded grade — 320 kernels/pound and the standard cashew for most snacking, confectionery, and food manufacturing applications), W450 (lower price, smaller kernel, ideal for cashew paste, almond blend products, and bulk industrial applications), and W500 (smallest whole grade). Scorched whole (SW) grades include kernels with light heat staining from the roasting/processing stage — quality is equivalent to W grades in a different cosmetic category, commanding a price discount of 10–15% and suitable for all roasted cashew and ingredient applications where appearance is secondary. Splits (S), pieces (P), butts (B), and cashew bits are the grades used for cashew paste, butter, crunchy toppings, and ingredient applications.
All Cashew Grades from W180 to SW320 — ISO 22000 Certified Export
Cambay Industries processes and exports cashew kernels across all ICC grades with NABL-accredited COA and full food safety documentation. View our cashew range.
Matching Grade to Application: Procurement Decision Framework
The correct cashew grade for your application depends on three factors: the visual presentation requirements of the end product (whole retail cashew vs. ingredient use), the price sensitivity of your procurement and the price premium your end product commands, and the regulatory requirements of your target market for any specific quality parameter. W180 and W210 are specified primarily for premium retail gift packs, luxury confectionery, and five-star hotel and airline catering applications where maximum kernel size and pristine white colour are differentiating product attributes. W240 grades serve premium retail and food service snacking applications at a commercially accessible price point. W320 is the industry workhorse grade — standard retail snack nut packs, food service salted cashew, and the ingredient specification for most cashew cream, milk, and butter applications. W450 and W500 generate the most cost-effective ingredient supply for cashew paste and butter manufacturing, with minimal premium over splits while maintaining whole kernel structure. Our nuts processing and almonds division offer complementary certified nut ingredient supply.
Match Your Cashew Grade to Your Application with Expert Guidance
50 years of cashew processing expertise. All ICC grades available with HACCP compliance, aflatoxin COA, and grade-specific pricing programmes.
Published by Cambay Industries — specialists in premium textiles and nuts processing since 1970.
