Cashew

What are Cashews?

Cashews are the edible seeds of the Anacardium occidentale tree, which is native to Brazil but now widely grown in tropical regions worldwide. Known for their unique kidney shape, cashews are a staple in plant-based diets and an ingredient in dairy alternatives like cashew milk and cashew cheese. Cashew suppliers play a key role in delivering high-quality nuts across global markets, with both whole and processed forms available.

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Types, Varieties & Forms of Cashew

Cashews are available in several grades and forms, including whole cashews, splits, pieces, and various sizes. They may also come in different processing options such as raw, roasted, salted, and unsalted. For culinary uses, cashews can be ground into flour, made into butter, or used in sauces, providing versatility for food manufacturers and chefs alike.

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Cashew nuts are typically graded based on their size, color, and whether they are whole or broken. The grades help buyers identify the quality and intended use of the nuts, whether for direct consumption or further processing. Here are the primary grades of cashews:

1. Whole Grades:
   • W-180 (King of Cashews): This is the largest whole cashew grade, known for its premium quality.
   • W-210: Often referred to as "Jumbo" cashews, these are slightly smaller than W-180.
   • W-240: Known for being large and desirable, this grade is commonly used in premium nut mixes and snacks.
   • W-320: The most popular grade, W-320 cashews are medium-sized and widely used due to their balance between size and affordability.
   • W-450: A smaller whole grade, W-450 cashews are more economical and often used in bulk food products.
2. Split and Broken Grades:
   • SW (Scorched Wholes): These are whole cashews that have been slightly scorched or browned during processing, often used in cooking or for roasted applications.
   • S (Splits): Split cashews are halves, commonly used in snack products or further processing.
   • LWP (Large White Pieces): Large pieces of broken cashews, ideal for industrial use in products like granola or baked goods.
   • SWP (Small White Pieces): Smaller pieces often used for cashew butter or in confectionery.
   • BB (Baby Bits): Very small pieces, typically used in food processing where size is not critical, such as in pastes or cashew-based sauces.

Each grade serves different purposes, with whole grades often used for retail and premium products, while split and broken grades are common in food manufacturing and processing.

Harvest Season of Cashew

The harvest season for cashews varies based on the region, typically occurring between February and May in the Northern Hemisphere. After harvesting, cashews undergo careful processing to remove their toxic outer shells, making them safe for consumption. This seasonal cycle plays a role in determining supply availability, with many suppliers coordinating efforts to ensure a steady supply of cashews year-round.

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Producing Countries

India, Vietnam, and Brazil are the top cashew-producing countries, each contributing unique qualities to the global supply. India and Vietnam are particularly known for their processing expertise, while Brazil remains a key source of premium-quality cashews. Other countries in Africa are also emerging as significant cashew producers, adding to the diversity and availability of cashew products worldwide.

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Trends & History

Cashews have a rich history, originating in South America before spreading to other tropical regions. Today, cashews are popular in both traditional and plant-based diets, with trends showing increased demand for dairy-free products and healthy snacks. Cashew butter, milk, and other alternatives continue to grow in popularity, reflecting consumer interest in nutritious, plant-based options.

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Cashew nut suppliers

Nutrada offers a comprehensive platform for businesses looking to source high-quality cashews, whether whole, processed, or organic. With Nutrada, you can connect with reputable cashew suppliers, exporters, and wholesalers to ensure a dependable supply of this versatile nut. Discover the benefits of Nutrada as a sourcing tool to find the ideal cashew suppliers for your business needs.