Contents
Introduction
We all love cashews. They are creamy, crunchy, and delicious. You might eat them as a snack. You might use them in cooking. But did you know not all cashews are the same?
There is actually a strict system for grading them. This is called cashew classification. It helps buyers know exactly what they are getting. It also helps farmers get a fair price for their crop.
In this guide, we will explore the world of cashew grades. We will look at how they are sorted. We will learn what the different letters and numbers mean. We will also talk about why this matters to you. Whether you are a buyer or just a snack lover, this guide is for you.
What Is Cashew Classification?
Cashew classification is a way of sorting cashew kernels based on quality. It is like a report card for nuts.
After the hard shell is removed, the kernels are inspected. Experts look at their size. They look at their color. They check if the nut is whole or broken.
This process is very detailed. It ensures that only the best nuts get top grades. Lower grades are still used, but for different things. For example, broken pieces might be used for cashew butter.
The main goal is consistency. When you buy a bag of “W-180” cashews, you should know what to expect. This system is used all over the world. It keeps the market fair and organized.
Why Do We Need to Sort Cashews?
You might wonder why we need such a strict system. Why not just put them all in a bag? There are actually several good reasons for this.
First, it helps set the price. Big, white, whole cashews are rare. They take more effort to grow and process. So, they cost more. Smaller or broken pieces cost less.
Second, it helps with cooking and baking. If you are making a fancy gift box, you want big, perfect nuts. If you are making cookies, small pieces are fine.
Third, it ensures quality control. The sorting process removes bad nuts. It takes out nuts that are shriveled or spotted. This means you get a better product in the end. It keeps the food safe and tasty.
The Basics of Cashew Grading Codes
When you look at cashew classification, you will see letters and numbers. It can look like a secret code. But it is actually quite simple once you know the rules.
The letter usually stands for the color or shape. “W” stands for “White Wholes.” This is the best grade. “S” might stand for “Scorched.” “B” stands for “Butts” or broken pieces.
The number stands for the size. Specifically, it tells you how many kernels fit in one pound. A lower number means the nut is bigger. A higher number means the nut is smaller.
For example, W-180 is a very large nut. It means there are only about 180 nuts in a pound. W-450 is a much smaller nut. There are 450 of them in a pound.
Understanding “White Wholes” (W)
The most popular category in cashew classification is “White Wholes.” These are the nuts you usually see in high-end snack mixes.
To get this grade, the kernel must be whole. It cannot be broken or split. It must also be white or pale ivory in color. It should not have spots or blemishes.
There are many sizes in this category. We already mentioned W-180. This is the “King of Cashews.” It is very large and expensive.
Then there is W-210 and W-240. These are also large and premium. W-320 is the most common grade found in stores. It is a good size and price. W-450 is the smallest whole kernel.
What Are “Scorched Wholes” (SW)?
Sometimes, the processing goes a little wrong. To get the nut out of the shell, heat is used. Sometimes, the nut gets a little too hot.
This can cause the color to change. It might turn slightly yellow or light brown. These nuts are called “Scorched Wholes.”
They are still whole nuts. They still taste good. They just don’t look as perfect as the white ones. Because of the color, they are sold at a lower price.
You might see grades like SW-180 or SW-320. The numbers mean the same thing as before. They tell you the size. These nuts are often used for roasting or spicing. The seasoning hides the color difference.
Broken Cashews: Butts and Splits
Not every cashew survives the shelling process. The shell is very hard. The kernel is soft. Sometimes, the nut breaks.
These broken pieces have their own place in cashew classification. They are separated into different types.
“Splits” are kernels that have split naturally lengthwise. They look like two halves of a whole nut.
“Butts” are kernels that are broken crosswise. They look simpler and shorter.
These grades are labeled with letters like “S” for Splits and “B” for Butts. You will also see “WS” for White Splits and “WB” for White Butts. They are great for candy bars or baking.
The Lowest Grades: Pieces and Baby Bits
Even small pieces are not wasted. When nuts break into tiny chunks, they are sorted again.
“Large White Pieces” (LWP) are bigger chunks. “Small White Pieces” (SWP) are smaller chunks.
Then there are “Baby Bits” (BB). These are very small, almost like granules. They are often used in factories. They might be ground into flour. They might be made into milk.
These grades are the cheapest. But they still have all the nutrition of a whole cashew. They are just not as pretty to look at. They are perfect for industrial food production.
Color Grading Explained
We talked a bit about color, but let’s go deeper. Color is huge in cashew classification. It tells buyers how fresh and well-processed the nut is.
First Quality is “White.” This means pale ivory or light ash. It looks clean and fresh.
Second Quality is “Scorched.” This is a slight yellow or light brown. It happens during roasting or drying.
Third Quality is “Second Scorched.” These are darker brown. They might have been overheated.
Fourth Quality is “Dessert.” These might be shriveled or deeply discolored. They are still edible but are used for pastes or chopping. The lighter the nut, the higher the value.
Why Size Matters So Much
In the world of cashews, size equals luxury. A big, plump cashew feels special. It has a nice texture. It looks impressive in a bowl.
That is why the count matters. Remember, the count is per pound. W-180s are rare. Trees don’t produce as many of them. That scarcity makes them expensive.
W-320 is the standard. It is the size most people are used to. It balances quality and cost.
Smaller nuts like W-450 are often cheaper. They taste the same. But they don’t have that “wow” factor. Size doesn’t change the flavor, but it changes the experience and the price tag.
How to Choose the Right Cashew Grade
Now that you know about cashew classification, how do you choose? It depends on what you need.
If you are giving a gift, go for W-180 or W-210. They look impressive and fancy.
If you are snacking at home, W-320 is perfect. It is tasty and affordable.
If you are making cashew chicken, try Splits or Butts. They are cheaper and easier to eat.
If you are making smoothies or vegan cheese, use pieces (LWP or SWP). You are going to blend them anyway. Why pay for whole nuts? Knowing the grades helps you save money.
The International Standards
Who decides these rules? There are a few groups. One big one is the UNECE. That stands for United Nations Economic Commission for Europe.
Another is the CEPCI in India. India is a huge cashew producer. They helped set many of the standards we use today.
Brazil and Vietnam also have big industries. They generally follow similar rules. This global agreement helps trade flow smoothly.
When a buyer in America orders from Vietnam, they use these codes. It ensures everyone speaks the same language. It prevents arguments about quality.
Quality Control and Safety
Cashew classification is not just about looks. It is also about safety.
During sorting, inspectors look for bad things. They check for insect damage. They look for mold. They look for black spots.
Nuts with these issues are removed. They are not sold for food. This keeps consumers safe.
Moisture is also checked. If cashews are too wet, they can rot. If they are too dry, they break. Proper grading ensures the moisture level is just right. This keeps the nuts crunchy and fresh for a long time.
Storing Your Cashews by Grade
Once you buy your graded cashews, you need to store them right. Whole nuts usually last longer than pieces.
Broken nuts have more surface area exposed to air. This means they can go stale faster. They can also absorb smells from your kitchen.
Always store cashews in an airtight container. Keep them in a cool, dark place. The pantry is okay for a short time.
For longer storage, put them in the fridge or freezer. This keeps the natural oils fresh. It stops them from tasting bitter. This is true for all grades, from W-180 to Baby Bits.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the number 320 mean in cashews?
The number 320 refers to the count. It means there are approximately 320 cashew kernels in one pound. This is the most common size found in supermarkets. It is considered a medium-sized nut. It offers a good balance of size and price.
Are W-180 cashews better than W-320?
“Better” usually means bigger in this case. W-180 cashews are much larger and heavier. They are considered more premium and luxurious. However, the taste is generally the same. If you want a fancy look, choose W-180. If you want a standard snack, W-320 is fine.
Can I eat scorched cashews?
Yes, absolutely. Scorched cashews are perfectly safe to eat. They just have a slightly darker color due to heat processing. They taste very similar to white cashews. They are often cheaper, which makes them a great deal. They are great for cooking.
Why are broken cashews cheaper?
Broken cashews are cheaper because they are not “perfect.” People prefer the look of whole nuts. Because the demand is lower for broken pieces, the price is lower. However, they have the same nutritional value. They are great for recipes where looks don’t matter.
What is the difference between W and SW grades?
“W” stands for White Wholes. These are pale and free from blemishes. “SW” stands for Scorched Wholes. These are slightly yellow or light brown. The main difference is the color appearance. W grades are more expensive than SW grades.
How are cashews classified globally?
Most countries follow similar standards set by international bodies like the UNECE. They use a system of letters for quality and shape, and numbers for size (weight). This universal system helps countries trade with each other easily. It ensures quality remains consistent everywhere.
Conclusion
Understanding cashew classification changes how you shop. It gives you power as a buyer. You are no longer just guessing. You know what the labels mean.
Next time you are at the store, look closely. Check the package. See if you can spot the grade. Are you buying W-320s? Or maybe some handy splits for baking?
This system helps farmers, traders, and you. It keeps high-quality nuts on our shelves. It helps reduce food waste by finding a use for every piece.
