As a professional walnut producer and exporter, Hebei Huadai Group adheres to strict national and international standards to ensure every in-shell walnut meets the quality expectations of global buyers. This article outlines the key grading criteria and packaging requirements for the export of Chinese walnut inshell.
1. Grading Standards for In-Shell Walnuts
The quality grading of walnut inshells for export is primarily based on the Chinese National Standard GB 19300 "Food Safety Standard - Nuts and Seeds" and GB/T 22165 "General Quality Standard for Nuts and Seeds". Key parameters are evaluated to ensure product consistency and safety.
1.1 Key Quality Indicators
|
Indicator |
Definition |
Standard Requirement (Max.) |
|
Defective Kernels |
Kernels affected by mold, insect damage, decay, or rancidity |
≤ 5.0% |
|
Insect-Damaged Nuts |
Nuts with insect holes that penetrate the kernel |
≤ 2.0% |
|
Blanks/Shrivels |
Shells without a kernel or with a severely shriveled kernel |
≤ 3.0% |
|
Moldy Nuts |
Nuts with visible mold on the shell or kernel |
≤ 2.0% |
1.2 Size Grading
Walnut inshell are typically graded by diameter or count per unit weight. While specific size classifications (e.g., 30mm, 32mm, 34mm+) can be customized to buyer requirements, ensuring uniform sizing within a batch is critical. The proportion of nuts smaller than the declared grade must not exceed 3%.
1.3 Sensory & Physical Requirements
Appearance: Walnut shells must be clean, intact, and exhibit natural coloration, free from stains or damage.
Fill: Walnut kernels should be plump, with minimal movement when shaken.
Aroma: Characteristic walnut aroma, free from rancid or off-odors.
Moisture Content: A crucial factor for storage stability, typically required to be ≤ 6.0%.
Purity: Free from foreign materials, shell fragments, and dust.
2. Packaging Standards for Export
Proper packaging is essential to protect product quality during long-distance transport and storage. Export packaging must meet international food safety and logistics requirements.
2.1 Packaging Materials
All materials in direct contact with the walnuts must be food-grade, non-toxic, and odorless. Common materials include:
Inner Packaging: Food-grade polyethylene (PE) liners or vacuum-sealed bags to control moisture and prevent oxidation.
Outer Packaging: New, strong, and dry woven polypropylene bags, jute bags, or 5-ply corrugated cardboard cartons for physical protection.
2.2 Common Export Packaging Forms
Bulk Bags: Often used for processing markets, commonly in 10kg, 12.5kg, or 25kg net weight woven bags or cartons.
Vacuum Packaging: Helps extend shelf life by slowing oxidation and is popular for retail-ready products.
Retail/Consumer Packs: Smaller, pre-printed bags (e.g., 500g, 1kg) for direct sale in overseas supermarkets or e-commerce channels.
2.3 Marking & Labeling
Export cartons and bags must be clearly marked in the language required by the buyer (usually English) with:
Product Name, Grade, and Size
Net Weight and Gross Weight
Batch/Lot Number and Production Date
Expiry Date / Best Before Date (typically 12 months from production under proper storage)
Storage Conditions: "Keep in a cool, dry place"
Country of Origin: "Product of China"
Manufacturer's Name, Address, and Supplier Identification
"Food Grade" or relevant certification marks (e.g., ISO, HACCP)
Shipping Marks as per the bill of lading
2.4 Container Loading & Transportation
Containers: Must be clean, dry, odorless, and free from pest infestation. Pre-shipment inspection of containers is recommended.
Storage during Transit: Maintain ventilation. Avoid temperature extremes and direct sunlight exposure.
3. Hebei Huadai's Quality Commitment for Export
At Hebei Huadai Agriculture Technology Co., Ltd. , founded in 1996, our in-shell walnuts are sourced from prime growing regions including Xinjiang, Hebei and Yunnan. We operate ISO and HACCP certified facilities with a strict quality control process from production through to pre-shipment inspection.
We ensure our Walnut Inshell:
Are graded strictly according to GB 19300 & GB/T 22165 standards or agreed-upon customer specifications.
Are processed and packed in hygienic conditions to prevent contamination.
Have a controlled moisture content (≤6.0%) for optimal shelf life during sea freight.
Are packed in strong, food-grade export packaging suitable for the destination market.
Are fully traceable from our factory to the source farm.
For detailed specifications, current pricing, or to discuss your customized grading and packaging needs, please contact our export team.
