NAADRA'S CARDAMOM - Brief Overview !
Cardamom is one of the most valuable spices in the world, prized for its intense aroma, warm flavour, and versatile culinary applications. It is widely used in food, beverages, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics.
The commercial product consists of carefully harvested and dried green seed pods, which protect the aromatic seeds inside and preserve essential oils.
WHY INDIAN CARDAMOM - WHY NAADRA !
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SUPERIOR AROMA & OIL CONTENT
Indian cardamom is globally known for its strong aroma and high essential oil concentration
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GLOBAL QUALITY PREFERENCE
Due to strict cultivation and processing standards, Our cardamom is preferred by international buyers seeking consistent premium quality
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WESTERN GHATS CULTIVATION
Cardamom is grown under natural forest shade in the Western Ghats, a biodiversity-rich region that provides ideal microclimatic conditions.
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PREMIUM MARKET VALUE
Because of its quality, Indian cardamom commands higher prices in global markets, especially in Europe, the USA, and Japan.
COMMERCIAL VARIETIES
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MALABAR VARIETY
Malabar cardamom is known for its intense aroma and uniform green colour, making it the most preferred variety for export markets.
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MYSORE VARIETY
Mysore cardamom produces bold, well-filled pods with strong visual appeal, suitable for both domestic consumption and export.
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VAZHUKKA VARIETY
Vazhukka is a hybrid variety offering higher yields and consistent pod size, widely used in bulk trade and processing industries.
CARDAMOM VARIETIES
| VARIETY | KEY FEATURES | TRADE USE |
|---|---|---|
| Malabar | Strong aroma, premium | Export & high-end use |
| Mysore | Bold, well-filled pods | Domestic & export |
| Vazhukka | High yield, uniform | Bulk & blended trade |
OUR CULTIVATION & GROWING CONDITIONS
- Cardamom thrives at elevations between 600 and 1500 meters above sea level, where temperature and humidity remain balanced.
- Annual rainfall of 1500–3000 mm ensures healthy plant growth and optimal pod development.
- Plants require 50–70% shade, usually provided by natural forest cover, to prevent heat stress and preserve pod colour.
- Well-drained loamy soil rich in organic matter is essential to prevent root diseases and promote nutrient absorption.
HARVESTING & PROCESSING
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FIRST YIELD TIMELINE
Cardamom plants start producing commercial yields after 2.5 to 3 years of planting, depending on growing conditions.
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HAND-PICKING METHOD
Pods are hand-picked every 25–35 days to ensure maturity control and prevent damage, maintaining premium quality.
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OPTIMAL HARVEST STAGE
Harvesting pods at a slightly underripe stage helps retain the vibrant green colour preferred in international markets.
PROCESSING & QUALITY CONTROL
- Cleaning & Drying
Freshly harvested pods are washed and dried to achieve a moisture level of 10–12%, which is critical for storage and export. - Controlled Curing
Scientific curing methods are used to lock in colour, aroma, and essential oils while preventing quality deterioration. - Sorting & Grading
Pods are polished, size-sorted, and graded to meet buyer specifications and international quality standards.
QUALITY & GRADING PARAMETERS
| PARAMETER | EXPORT STANDARD |
|---|---|
| Pod Size | 6–8+ mm |
| Colour | Deep natural green |
| Essential Oil | ≥ 6% |
| Moisture Content | 10–12% |
| Defects | Nil (clean, mould-free) |
GRADING & QUALITY BENCHMARKS
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SIZE & APPEARANCE
Premium cardamom grades typically measure 6–8+ mm with a uniform deep green colour and intact pod structure.
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ESSENTIAL OIL CONTENT
Heavier and denser pods contain higher essential oil levels, with premium exports maintaining at least 6% oil content.
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COMPLIANCE & CLEANLINESS
Only clean, mould-free, defect-free pods are exported, ensuring compliance with EU-MRL residue standards and food safety regulations.
PACKAGING, STORAGE & SHELF LIFE
Cardamom is packed in vacuum-sealed or foil-lined inner bags to protect aroma and prevent moisture absorption. Export cartons typically range from 5–10 kg. Storage in cool, dry, and dark conditions (5–15°C) ensures a shelf life of 12–18 months.
