Green Cardamom
Green Cardamom is the dried ripe fruit (capsules of cardamom plant) often referred as the “Queen of Spices” because of its very pleasant aroma and taste. Cardamom is a perennial, herbaceous, rhizomatous plant. Based on the nature of panicles, three varieties are recognized viz. Malabar with prostrate panicle, Mysore with erect panicle, and Vazhukka with semi erect panicle. Plants are of medium size (2 to 3 mtr height) with pubescent leaves (on the dorsal side) and fruits globose in the case of Malabar, whereas plant robust (3 to 4 mtr height) with leaves glabrous on both sides with ovoid capsules in the case of Mysore. Vazhukka variety is a mix of both the above in physical characteristics. Indian Green Cardamom is offered to the international markets in different sizes: 6 MM to 7 MM, 7 MM to 8 MM, 7.5 MM and 8 MM. Green cardamom oil is a precious ingredient in food preparations, perfumery, health foods medicines and beverages.
| Specifications | 6 MM to 7 MM | 7 MM to 8 MM | 7.5 MM | 8 MM |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Extraneous Matter | Not more than 1.0% by weight | Not more than 1.0% by weight | Not more than 1.0% by weight | Not more than 1.0% by weight |
| Moisture | Not more than 11% by weight | Not more than 11% by weight | Not more than 11% by weight | Not more than 13% by weight |
| Bulk Density | Not less than 370 G/L | Not less than 370 G/L | Not less than 380 G/L | Not less than 390 G/L |
| Size | Not less than 95% (Retention in 6 mm) | Not less than 95% (Retention in 7 mm) | Not less than 95% (Retention in 7.5 mm) | Not less than 95% (Retention in 8 mm) |
| Total Ash (On Dry Basis) | Not more than 9.5% by weight | Not more than 9.5% by weight | Not more than 9.5% by weight | Not more than 9.5% by weight |
| Volatile Oil (On Dry Basis) | Not less than 3.5% by V/W | Not less than 3.5% by V/W | Not less than 3.5% by V/W | Not less than 3.5% by V/W |