Cashews are graded by count. The W stands for white, meaning kernels that came through processing whole and unscorched, and the number is how many kernels make up a pound. W210 gives roughly 210 large kernels per pound, which works out to about 460 per kilo.

That places it directly between the two grades most people know. W180 is the largest, with fewer and bigger kernels. W240 and W320 are smaller and cheaper, with W320 being the standard grade most shops sell when they simply say kaju. W210 is large enough that the difference from W180 is barely visible in a bowl, while the price gap between them is not.

Nutritionally, nothing changes across grades. A W210 kernel carries exactly the same protein, fat and minerals as a W180 kernel. Size reflects the cashew apple it grew on, not quality, freshness or origin. Anyone paying more for a larger grade is paying for appearance.

That makes W210 the practical choice in most situations where whole cashews are wanted. It looks right as a garnish, holds up when fried in ghee for pulao, and works as a table snack. W180 earns its premium mainly in gift boxes, where kernel size is the thing being noticed.

How to Identify Good W210

• Large whole kernels of consistent size across the pack
• Even pale ivory or cream colour with no yellowing or dark scorch marks
• The characteristic curved cashew shape intact
• Very few splits, pieces or broken halves
• Firm texture with a clean snap, not soft or bendy
• Mild buttery aroma with no sour or oily smell

Cashew Nutrition

Grade has no bearing on nutrition. W210 carries exactly what every other whole grade does.

• Source of plant protein and dietary fibre
• Carries unsaturated fats, magnesium, copper and phosphorus
• Lower fat content than almonds or walnuts
• Energy dense, so a small handful is a standard serving

This is general nutritional information and not medical advice.

How to Use Kaju W210

As a snack:

A handful of 10 to 15 kernels is a standard serving.

To roast at home:

• Dry roast on a low flame for four to five minutes, stirring constantly until pale gold.
• Add salt while still warm if you want the salted version.
• Cool completely before storing, since trapped steam softens them.
• Cashews burn quickly, so stop as soon as the colour turns.

In cooking:

• Fry in ghee with raisins for pulao, biryani and sweets. W210 holds its shape well in hot ghee.
• Garnish for kheer, halwa, barfi and rabdi.
• Chop into ladoo and dry fruit mixtures.
• Scatter over poha, upma and chivda.

For gravy paste, badam-style powders or anything ground, broken cashew pieces perform identically and cost less. Save whole grades for dishes where the kernel is visible.

Uses for Kaju W210

* Snacking, plain or home-roasted

* Pulao and biryani, fried in ghee

* Kheer, halwa and barfi garnish

* Dry fruit ladoo

* Poha, upma and chivda

* Festive cooking

* Everyday household use

How to Store Whole Cashews

Cashews carry enough oil to turn rancid and absorb moisture quickly, so storage decides how long they stay good.

• Transfer to an airtight container as soon as the pack is opened.
• Keep in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and away from the stove.
• Refrigerate during the monsoon or in humid weather.
• Freeze the 500 g pack if it will be used slowly. Cashews freeze well and can be used straight from frozen.
• Keep away from strong-smelling foods, since cashews absorb odours readily.

At room temperature, whole cashews keep for about two months. Refrigerated, closer to six.

If they soften, dry roast on a low flame for two to three minutes and cool completely.

Which Cashew Grade to Buy

Spyran stocks three whole and broken options, and the right one depends on what the pack is for.

W210 is a large whole grade at better value. Kernels are whole and substantial, at a lower price per kilo than the top grade. Best for everyday cooking, garnishing and snacking.

W180 is the largest whole grade. Worth the premium mainly for gifting and presentation, where kernel size is what gets noticed.

Kaju tukda is broken pieces at the lowest price per kilo, with identical taste and nutrition. Best for gravy paste, kaju katli, ladoo and anything ground.