ISO 6477:1988

Overview

ISO 6477:1988 specifies quality and presentation requirements for cashew kernels intended for human consumption. Prepared by ISO/TC 34 (Agricultural food products), the standard covers general and specific requirements including moisture content, grading, sampling, methods of test, and packing and marking. A detailed table enumerates 24 grades with grade designations, trade names and characteristic criteria to support consistent international trade.

Key Topics

• Moisture content: The standard requires cashew kernels to have a moisture content not greater than 5% (m/m), determined by the oven-drying method specified in ISO 1026.
• Grading and classification: A comprehensive table classifies whole kernels, scorched kernels, dessert kernels and various piece categories. The grades include trade designations and characteristic limits used for commercial grading.
• Sampling and tests:
  • Visual examination is used to assess conformity with grade requirements (counting kernels per kg for certain whole-kernel grades and noting pieces and next-lower-grade content).
  • Sieving tests are specified for piece-size grades (referencing ISO 565 test sieves) where applicable.
  • The standard notes that general methods of sampling for dry and dried fruit and vegetable products will be the subject of a future International Standard.
• Hygiene and defects: Kernels must be reasonably dry, free from rancidity, living insects and moulds, and free from discernible insect fragments and rodent contamination visible to the naked eye (or with stated magnification if used).
• Tolerances: Typical tolerances permit a small percentage of broken kernels and kernels of the next lower grade (commonly up to 5% at packing), with specific provisions noted in the grade table (some categories permit up to 10% where indicated).
• Packing and marking: Kernels shall be packed in clean, sound tinplate or other leakproof containers, sealed after infusion of an inert gas. Required markings include product name, producer/packer, net mass, grade designation, producing country and any purchaser-specific markings; a reference to this International Standard may also be included.

Applications

• Facilitates consistent international trade and commercial contracts for cashew kernels.
• Serves as a reference for exporters, importers, packers and quality-control laboratories assessing cashew kernel quality and conformity.
• Supports specification-writing for procurement, packaging, labeling and inspection procedures in the cashew supply chain.

Related Standards

• ISO 1026 - Determination of dry matter/water content by drying under reduced pressure (referenced for moisture testing).
• ISO 565 - Test sieves (referenced for piece-size classification).

For procurement teams and quality professionals, ISO 6477:1988 provides a practical framework to assess cashew kernel quality, apply consistent grading and ensure packaging and marking practices that support food safety and trade transparency.