Grades of Cardamom

 Common Grades

                  In general, the weight in grams per liter and the color are decisive in determining quality.                       The Proportion of burst fruit pods ("open pods") also determines quality, as do color (green or                           yellow) and drying method (mechanical or sun). 

The following definitions refer to common Indian Grades:

• Bold is a popular export grade where 90 percent of the cardamom pods have a diameter of 6.5mm or above. The product has a mature green coloration with a weight in grams per liter of 415 grams.
• Super Bold is a high quality variety where all pods should have a diameter of 8mm or above. The product has a mature green coloration with a weight per liter of over 450 grams.
• Extra Bold is also a popular export grade where all pods will have a diameter of 7 mm or above. The product has a mature green coloration with a weight in grams per liter of 435 grams. 
• Bulk is cardamom that has not been graded. As such, it contains all sizes, both mature and immature capsules, as well as black, yellow and/or split cardamom.
• Small is a grade with pods that measure between 5.5 mm and 6.5 mm in diameter. The weight in grams per liter is approximately 385 grams.
•  Open/Splits is lower quality cardamom where over 60 percent of the pods are “open” (i.e. seeds exposed) and the color of the pods may be greenish/pale yellow. All pods will be mature with a diameter of 6.5 mm or above 

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