Cashew kernel grades explained: from W180 to splits and pieces

Cashew kernels are traded on a grading system that tells you three things at a glance: the colour of the kernel, whether it is whole or broken, and — for wholes — how many kernels make up one pound. Knowing how to read it makes quotes easier to compare and avoids surprises when the container arrives.

The letters: colour and shape

• W — white wholes: uniform ivory or pale white kernels, the premium category.
• SW — scorched wholes: slightly darker from longer roasting during shelling; same taste, lower price.
• LBW / DW — light blemished and dessert wholes: kernels with small spots or deeper colour, well suited to roasting, coating and ingredients.

The numbers: kernels per pound

For whole grades, the number is the maximum count of kernels per pound (454 g). A lower number means larger kernels:

• W180 — the largest standard grade, often sold as a premium snack.
• W240 — large kernels, popular for retail packs and roasted snacks.
• W320 — the most widely traded grade worldwide, the usual choice for snacks and mixes.
• W450 — smaller wholes at a lower price, common in ingredient use.

Splits and pieces

Kernels that break during shelling are sorted by size: WS (white splits, halved lengthwise), WB (butts, broken crosswise), LWP and SWP (large and small white pieces) and BB (baby bits). For bakery, confectionery, sauces and cashew butter, pieces give the same flavour at a fraction of the price of wholes.

What else to check on the specification

Grade is only part of the picture. Ask for moisture (typically 5% max), the tolerance for lower grades within the lot, and the packing — usually vacuum-packed in 22.68 kg (50 lb) bags or tins, two per carton, flushed with CO₂ or nitrogen for shelf life.

Not sure which grade fits your product? Tell us how you will use the kernels and we will suggest two or three options with samples.

Request a quote or samples