Cashew Nuts
(Anacadium occidentable)
The cashew kernel is gotten from the cashew fruit. It is encapsulated inside the cashew seed, the kidney shaped inedible part if the cashew fruit.
The cashew tree which is scientifically called Anacadium Occidentable comes from the family of Anacardianceae. It flourishes in the tropical rain forest. The tree can grow up to 14m (46ft) but the dwarf cashew grows up to 6m (20ft)
The species is originally native to northernstern Brazil. Major production of cashew occurs in Vietnam, Nigeria, India, Ivory Coast and Ghana.
Market
The Netherlands, Germany and United Kingdom are currently the largest import market for cashew but. Europeans’ import of cashew but into Europe increased annually by the average rate of 14 percent in values and 11 percent in volumes in the last five years.
Therefore, supply of cashew nut which mostly comes from developing countries outstrips demand.
Uses
Cashew nuts are used mostly as snack. They are tasty and hygienic edibles which are sometimes prescribed by nutritionists. They can also be used to make cashew nut butter which goes with wheat flour bread. They can also be used to make candies, chocolate, cake and other pastries.
Production
After the bright red, orange or yellow fruit has been consumed, the kidney shaped uppermost part which carries the nut is then sun dried for a period of two days. The helps remove excess moisture form the shell.
The raw cashew kernels are then put in a drum which is connected to a mini boiler. The boiler boils the kernel for 10 – 15 minutes before being roasted In the drum for 20 minutes
The roasted cashew is then separated from the outer shell. This stage has to be handled with professionalism so as to avoid the kernel from breaking. Breaking for kernel reduces the level of nut quality.
Strategy
At SSC we situate different collection points close to the farmers and agents who brings dried cashew nuts to our establishment, they are later stored in the best of storage facilities to ensure quality and hygienic packaging.
