Agricultural crops, grains and food commodities

Nuts & dried fruit

Cashew Kernel Grades Explained: W240, W320 and Beyond

Cashew kernels are traded by a grading system that describes colour, shape and size. Understanding it helps buyers compare offers like for like.

Reading the grade

The letter describes colour and form: W stands for white whole kernels, SW for scorched wholes, and further codes cover splits, butts and pieces. The number is the approximate count of kernels per pound: W240 means about 220–240 kernels per pound, W320 about 300–320.

Lower numbers mean larger kernels and usually a higher price. W320 is the most widely traded grade; W240 is a premium snacking size.

Quality points

Confirm moisture (commonly max. 5%), percentage of broken kernels allowed, absence of live insects and foreign matter, and food-safety parameters such as aflatoxin limits required by your market.

Packing

Cashew kernels are usually vacuum-packed or nitrogen-flushed in bags, typically 22.68 kg (50 lb) per carton, to protect freshness during sea freight.

What to include in your RFQ

Specify grade, quantity in containers or tonnes, packing, destination, Incoterm, the analysis certificates you need and any organic or other certification requirement.

For professional buyers

Request a current quotation

BSL Enterprises confirms specification, availability and terms for each transaction in a written quotation. To receive a precise offer, include:

  • Quantity per shipment and per year
  • Destination port or delivery place
  • Grade, specification and packaging
  • Preferred Incoterm and documents

Products covered in this guide: Cashew W240, Cashew W320, Almonds.

Request current quotation

Editorial note: this guide summarises general procurement practice and recognised trade and specification frameworks where they apply. It is reviewed and updated as needed and is not a statement of BSL stock, pricing or capacity.