Cashew quality explained: KOR, nut count, moisture and kernel grades (W180–W450)
The price of raw cashew nuts depends mostly on how much good kernel they will give. Kernels are then sold by size and colour. This guide explains both.
Updated November 6, 2026 · 2 sources
Raw nuts: three numbers
| Measure | What it means | Typical target |
|---|---|---|
| KOR (outturn) | Pounds of usable kernel from an 80 kg bag, found by cutting a sample | About 48 lbs or more is commonly treated as standard |
| Nut count | Number of nuts per kg; fewer means bigger nuts | Agreed in the contract |
| Moisture | Water in the nuts | About 8–10%; wetter nuts risk mould |
Kernel grades
White whole kernels are graded by how many fit in a pound (or kilo). The lower the number, the bigger the kernel and the higher the price.
| Grade | Kernels per kg (Kenyan standard) |
|---|---|
| W180 | 265–395 |
| W210 | 440–465 |
| W240 | 485–530 |
| W320 | 660–706 |
| W450 | 880–990 |
Other grades include scorched wholes, splits, butts and pieces. Kernels are usually vacuum-packed with low moisture.
Add KOR, nut count and moisture to your cashew lot so buyers can compare.
Frequently asked questions
What does KOR mean?
Kernel outturn ratio: the pounds of good kernel from an 80 kg bag of raw nuts.
What does W320 mean?
White whole kernels with about 320 kernels per pound.
Why does moisture matter?
Wet nuts can go mouldy and develop aflatoxin; very dry nuts break during processing.
Sources
- Kenya standard for cashew kernels (WTO TBT notification) ↗
- Agriculture Institute: Quality standards for raw cashew nuts ↗
Checked on November 6, 2026. Laws, rules and prices change: always check the official source before you trade. This guide is general information, not legal advice.