Understanding Cashew Kernel Grades: W180 to W500 Explained

Cashew kernel grades look cryptic at first, but they describe just two things: how whole the kernel is, and how large. Get comfortable with both and a spec sheet reads like plain English.

Whole white grades

A grade such as W320 means white whole kernels, roughly 320 to a pound. The lower the number, the larger and more premium the kernel — W180 are jumbo, W450 and W500 are small but perfectly usable.

Beyond whole kernels

• SW — scorched whole kernels, a light heat tint, identical taste.
• WS / WB — white splits and butts, ideal for butters and bakery.
• LWP / SWP — large and small white pieces for confectionery.

There is no single best grade — only the right grade for your application. A premium gift pack needs W240; a cashew-butter line is better served by splits and pieces at a far lower cost.

“Buy the grade your product actually needs. Paying for jumbo kernels you are about to chop is money roasted away.”