The cashew guide.
What the grades mean, how to keep cashews crisp, and the questions we hear most.
Cashew grades, by count
Whole cashews are graded by how many kernels it takes to make one pound (454 g). The number in the grade is that count: the smaller it is, the bigger each cashew.
| Grade | Per pound | Per kilo | Relative size | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| W180 | 170–180 | 375–395 | Jumbo. The largest whole grade, and the one in our Jumbo tin. | |
| W210 | 200–210 | 440–465 | Extra large. | |
| W240 | 220–240 | 485–530 | Large. A popular premium grade. | |
| W320 | 300–320 | 660–705 | Medium. The most widely traded grade. | |
| W450 | 400–450 | 880–990 | Small wholes. |
Counts follow the standard export grading used across the cashew trade. Per-kilo figures are rounded.
Trade terms, decoded
- W
- White wholes: whole kernels, pale ivory in colour, with the skin peeled away.
- SW
- Scorched wholes: whole kernels with a slightly darker, toasted colour from drying.
- Splits (S)
- Kernels split naturally along their length into two halves.
- Butts (B)
- Kernels broken across, leaving the thicker end of the curve.
- Pieces
- Smaller broken bits, graded by size. Good for cooking and sweets.
- Borma
- The drying oven of the cashew trade. Borma cashews keep their thin russet skin.
Keeping cashews crisp
Cashews are rich in natural oils, so air, heat, light and humidity are what make them go soft or stale.
- Close the tin
- Press the lid down after every handful.
- Keep them cool and dark
- Away from the stove and out of direct sun.
- In monsoon months
- In humid weather, an airtight tin in the fridge keeps them crisp for longer.
- Gone a little soft?
- A few minutes in a dry pan over low heat brings back the crunch.
Questions
When can I buy KIRBS online?
All five tins are launching soon. Message us on WhatsApp to reserve one and we will tell you first when they are ready.
Where are KIRBS cashews made?
By AVK Exports in Nellikavilai, Kanniyakumari District, Tamil Nadu.
What is in each tin?
Cashews, and where the name says so, salt, pepper or chilli. Every tin is labelled no oil, no preservatives and gluten free.
How big is a tin?
Every KIRBS tin holds 400 g. Prices start at ₹505 for Borma and go up to ₹635 for Jumbo W180.
Are there allergens?
Yes. Cashews are tree nuts. If you have a tree nut allergy, please do not eat them.
Do you take gifting, bulk or export orders?
Yes. Use the gifting page to build a set, or send us a bulk enquiry and we will reply with options.
Something else? Ask us on WhatsApp.