Grading
Grading turns variable harvests into consistent, specified lots.
Each product has its own grading system. Here is a summary of the ones we work with most.
Grading by product type
- Fresh fruit
- Size or count per carton; Class I / II; maturity (e.g. avocado dry matter)
- Fresh vegetables
- Length, diameter or weight; freshness and trimming
- Robusta coffee
- Screen 18, 15, 12 (sieve sizes in 64ths of an inch); FAQ ungraded
- Arabica coffee
- AA, A, AB, PB and others by screen; cup profile by sample
- Cocoa
- Bean count per 100g; cut-test results; moisture
- Oilseeds
- Purity %, admixture, moisture and oil content
- Grains & pulses
- Foreign matter, broken grains, colour and moisture
- Nuts
- Style (wholes, halves, pieces) and size
‘Consistent lots from variable harvests’
Agreeing a grade
Grades are written into each quotation and contract. Where a buyer's specification goes beyond standard grades — such as a custom 'AAA' coffee selection — we confirm whether partners can prepare it before committing.
