Cashew Nut Grades Explained: W180, W240, W320, Scorched, Splits & RCN

What determines a cashew grade?

Cashew kernels are graded on three things: size (count per pound/kg), colour, and wholeness. The whiter, larger and more intact the kernel, the higher the grade and the price. Grade codes tell you these at a glance.

White whole grades (W180, W210, W240, W320, W450)

The 'W' stands for white wholes; the number is the approximate count of kernels per pound. A lower number means bigger nuts.

• •W180 — the largest, most premium 'king-size' kernels (about 170–180 per lb)
• •W210 — large, premium wholes
• •W240 — large wholes, popular for gifting and premium retail
• •W320 — the most widely traded grade worldwide; the best all-round value
• •W450 — smaller wholes, economical for snacking and ingredients

Scorched grades

Scorched wholes (SW) are kernels with a slightly amber/scorched colour from roasting, but fully intact. They taste the same as white wholes and cost less — ideal for roasting, seasoning and ingredient use where colour is not critical.

Splits, pieces & butts

When kernels break during processing they are graded as splits, butts, or pieces (large white pieces, small white pieces, etc.). These are the most economical kernel grades and are perfect for baking, confectionery, cashew butter, and any application where whole appearance isn't needed.

Raw cashew nuts (RCN)

Raw cashew nuts (RCN) are the unshelled, unprocessed nuts sold to processors who shell, grade and package them. RCN is traded by outturn (kernel yield) and is the entry point for cashew processors sourcing raw material at volume.

How grade drives price — and how to buy right

Price falls as you move from W180 down to W450, then to scorched, then to splits and pieces. The trick is to match grade to application: pay for W240/W320 wholes where appearance matters, and save with scorched or splits for ingredients and confectionery.

Always request a sample kit so your QA team can verify grade, colour and moisture before committing to a container. Confirm HACCP certification, Certificate of Origin, vacuum packing and Incoterms (FOB Mombasa or CIF) in writing.

Sourcing cashews from origin

Savannah Source supplies white whole grades (W180, W240, W320, W450), scorched wholes, splits and raw cashew nuts (RCN) — vacuum-packed, HACCP-certified with Certificate of Origin — to wholesalers, snack packers and ingredient buyers across the EU, Gulf, Asia and the USA, with a sample kit before order.