{"id":34640,"date":"2021-07-28T15:15:46","date_gmt":"2021-07-28T08:15:46","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/kimmyfarm.com\/afi-standards-and-export-specifications-for-cashew-kernels"},"modified":"2021-07-28T15:15:46","modified_gmt":"2021-07-28T08:15:46","slug":"afi-standards-and-export-specifications-for-cashew-kernels","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/kimmyfarm.com\/en\/afi-standards-and-export-specifications-for-cashew-kernels","title":{"rendered":"AFI Standards and Export Specifications for Cashew Kernels"},"content":{"rendered":"

In Vietnam, there are several export standards for cashew kernels<\/strong>. The standard applied often depends on the requirements of the importing market. However, one of the most common and widely used standards in Vietnam\u2019s cashew processing industry is the AFI standard for cashew kernels<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

So, what is AFI? And what does the AFI standard for export cashew kernels include? Let\u2019s explore the key details below.<\/p>\n

What Is AFI?<\/h2>\n

AFI<\/strong> stands for The Association of Food Industries<\/em>. It is a U.S.-based trade association that supports companies involved in the food import and export industry. AFI develops programs that help member companies trade more smoothly, promote fair and open trade, and comply with U.S. laws and regulations.<\/p>\n

In the food industry, AFI is known for setting practical commercial standards that help buyers, sellers, importers, exporters, and processors communicate more clearly about food product quality.<\/p>\n

Related article:<\/strong> HACCP Food Safety Certification for the Cashew Industry<\/a><\/p>\n

\"Official


\nOfficial logo of The Association of Food Industries, also known as AFI.
<\/p><\/div>\n

What Is the AFI Standard for Cashew Kernels?<\/h2>\n

The AFI standard for cashew kernels<\/strong> is a set of commercial quality requirements, specifications, grading rules, and abbreviations developed to help standardize cashew kernel trading, especially for products entering the U.S. market.<\/p>\n

Today, however, the AFI standard is used widely beyond the United States. It has become one of the most familiar grading systems in the global cashew industry. In Vietnam, many cashew processors and exporters also apply AFI specifications when producing and classifying cashew kernels<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n

Related article:<\/strong> Types of Cashew Kernels, Standards, and Classification Methods<\/a><\/p>\n

\"Vietnam


\nW320 cashew kernels<\/strong><\/a> are commonly classified according to AFI standards.
<\/p><\/div>\n

Key Details of the AFI Standard in the Cashew Industry<\/h2>\n

10 General Requirements for Cashew Kernels Under AFI Standards<\/h3>\n
    \n
  1. Cashew kernels<\/strong> must be free from live insect infestation.<\/li>\n
  2. Cashews must be packed in new, clean, dry, leak-proof containers. The packaging must be strong enough to protect the product during normal storage and transportation. Outer cartons should be new, clean, free from insects and mold, and properly sealed. Cartons should meet suitable strength requirements, and food-grade CO\u2082 must be used when required.<\/li>\n
  3. Only approved pesticides may be used on cashews, and pesticide residue must remain within the limits allowed by the importing country. In the U.S., pesticide residues must comply with the approved limits. Fumigation with methyl bromide and naphthalene is prohibited.<\/li>\n
  4. All cartons must be clearly marked with product name, trademark if any, manufacturer or packer name and address, grade, net weight, country of origin, buyer\u2019s name or code, destination port, lot number, and other agreed markings.<\/li>\n
  5. The bill of lading must list the number of cartons, country of origin, and carton markings.<\/li>\n
  6. Shipments must be inspected before loading. Transport conditions must be suitable for food products and free from strange odors, insects, mold, rodent activity, and foreign materials.<\/li>\n
  7. Cashew kernel moisture must be between 3% and 5%<\/strong>, determined according to the AOAC reference method.<\/li>\n
  8. If the contract requires a \u201cfry test,\u201d it must be carried out according to the agreed appendix or testing method.<\/li>\n
  9. Hard blocking is not allowed. \u201cHard blocking\u201d means cashew kernels in vacuum bags become so tightly stuck together that they cannot be separated without using external tools.<\/li>\n
  10. Cashew kernels must be free from hard or sharp foreign materials, as well as hair.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    Quality Grades and Classification of Cashew Kernels Under AFI Standards<\/h3>\n

    Under AFI standards, cashew kernels may be classified into several quality grades, including First Quality Fancy<\/strong>, Second Quality Scorched<\/strong>, Lightly Blemished Wholes<\/strong>, Blemished Wholes<\/strong>, Third Quality Special Scorched<\/strong>, Fourth Quality<\/strong>, and Dessert<\/strong>.<\/p>\n