Highest Grade:
Size: Large, uniform kernels
Color: Light cream to pale white
Texture: Smooth, firm
Aroma & Flavor: Mildly sweet, buttery
Moisture Content: <5%
Foreign Matter or Impurities: None
Origin: Premium cashew-producing regions (e.g., India, Vietnam)
Harvesting & Processing: Properly roasted and processed
Medium Grade:
Size: Medium, slightly varied
Color: Cream to off-white
Texture: Slightly uneven, less firm
Aroma & Flavor: Moderately sweet, less buttery
Moisture Content: 5-7%
Foreign Matter or Impurities: Minimal
Origin: Mixed regions
Harvesting & Processing: Less refined processing
Lowest Grade:
Size: Small, irregular
Color: Darker cream to tan
Texture: Dry, crumbly
Aroma & Flavor: Weak, rancid
Moisture Content: Above 7%
Foreign Matter or Impurities: Presence of shells or debris
Origin: Poor quality growing conditions
Harvesting & Processing: Poorly processed, may be stale
Cashews
Cashew nuts, native to Brazil and widely cultivated in tropical climates, are beloved for their rich, creamy flavor and versatile culinary applications. These kidney-shaped nuts grow attached to the cashew apple, a fruit that is not only edible but also used to produce beverages and jams in various cultures.
Rich in healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fats, cashews are an excellent source of energy and provide essential nutrients such as protein, fiber, vitamins (especially B vitamins), and minerals like magnesium, zinc, and iron. These nutrients contribute to numerous health benefits, including improved heart health, enhanced immune function, and better bone health.