Cashew grades look like a secret code, but they follow one simple rule: the number is roughly how many whole kernels make up one pound (about 454 g). Fewer kernels per pound means bigger kernels.
The grades you will see
- W180 — “King cashew”. The largest whole white kernel. Creamy, slightly sweet and the one guests notice on a tray.
- W240 / W320. Medium sizes, the everyday standard for snacking and cooking.
- Splits and pieces. Kernels that broke naturally during shelling. Same taste, a fraction of the price.
Which one should you buy?
For gifting and festive trays, buy whole kernels: our W180 King Jumbo Cashews are graded twice by hand. For snacking, the roasted ranges are where the fun is — try Sea Salt Jumbo Cashews or the punchier Pepper Garlic Cashews.
Cooking kaju curry, kheer or cashew paste? Pieces melt into a gravy exactly like whole kernels, which is why we pack Jumbo Cashew Broken (Economy) in a kitchen-size 1 kg pouch.
Freshness matters more than size
A stale W180 tastes worse than a fresh W320. Look for kernels that are ivory, not yellow, and that snap cleanly. Store opened packs in an airtight jar away from the stove.