NITC Pistachio Quality Grading
Supplying the highest quality, naturally opened in-shell pistachios directly from its own orchards and trusted partner farms in Iran. The commitment is to provide a product that consistently meets the most rigorous international standards for size, purity, and taste.
Every batch of these pistachios is grown under the Iranian sun, in ideal climate conditions that produce kernels renowned for their rich flavor and vibrant green color. Specialization in naturally opened pistachios ensures a superior, undamaged product for your customers.
In-Shell Pistachio Grading & Safety Standards
To ensure complete transparency and build lasting trust, we adhere to a precise grading system. The table below details the exact specifications for each quality grade we offer.
| Market Designation | Global Standard | Term Definition / Key Guarantee |
|---|---|---|
| Conventional | Conventional | Grown using traditional agricultural practices. |
| Organic | Certified Organic | Grown and processed according to international organic regulations, prohibiting synthetic inputs. |
| Low-Residue | MRL-Compliant | Guaranteed to have pesticide residues below strict Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs). |
| Residue-Free | Non-Detectable Residues | Verified via laboratory testing to have no quantifiable traces of pesticide residues. |
| Quality Factors | Quality Grades | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grade 2 | Grade 1 | Extra Grade | Fancy Grade | |
| Shell Splits | ||||
| Open Mouth | 95 | 95 | 97 | 100 |
| Closed Shell | <5 | <5 | <3 | 0 |
| Tight Split | 30 | 20 | <12 | <1 |
| Normal Split | 50 | 50 | 58 | 19 |
| Handpicked | 20 | 30 | 30 | 80 |
| Defects & Foreign Materials | ||||
| Adhering Hull | <2 | <1.5 | <1 | N/A |
| Dark Stained | <2 | <1.5 | <1 | <0.5 |
| Light Stained | 10 | 7 | 5 | <2 |
| Deformed Shell | <3 | <2 | <1 | N/A |
| Midgets | <5 | <3 | <1 | N/A |
| Damaged by Other Means | <3 | <2 | <1 | N/A |
| Discoloration (Dark Yellow) | <3 | <2 | <1 | N/A |
| Discoloration (Light Yellow) | <5 | <3 | <2 | N/A |
| Form Dissimilarity | <2 | <1 | <0.5 | N/A |
| Size Dissimilarity | <5 | <3 | <1 | N/A |
| Insect Damage | <1 | <0.8 | <0.5 | N/A |
| Shell Pieces and Blanks | <2.5 | <2 | <1 | <0.5 |
| Loose Kernels | <2 | <1.5 | <1 | <0.5 |
| Foreign Materials | <0.1 | <0.1 | <0.1 | <0.1 |
| Quality & Storage Factors | ||||
| Moisture | <6 | <6 | <6 | <6 |
| Mold | <2 | <1.5 | <0.5 | <0.1 |
1. Fancy Grade (Highest/Premium Quality)
This is the top, premium grade. The standards are extremely strict:
100% Open Shells: Every single nut must have a naturally split, open shell.
Handpicked Majority: 80% of the nuts are the highest-quality “handpicked” split type.
Minimal Defects: Almost no stains, shell pieces, or loose kernels are allowed. Many defect categories (like deformed shells or discolorations) are not allowed at all (N/A).
Very Fresh: It has the lowest allowable mold content, indicating superior handling and freshness.
2. Extra Grade (High Quality)
A high-quality grade with much tighter limits on defects. Almost all shells must be open, with very few closed ones. Defects like stains, deformities, and insect damage are very low. The nuts are more uniform in size and appearance.
3. Grade 1 (Standard Quality)
A step up from Grade 2. The requirements are stricter, allowing slightly fewer defects. For example, there are fewer tight shells, stained nuts, and deformed shells compared to Grade 2. This is a good, standard quality.
4. Grade 2 (Lowest Quality)
This is the most basic, acceptable grade. It allows for the highest amount of defects. You’ll find fewer perfect, wide-open shells and more nuts that are tightly closed or have stains, deformities, and size differences.
These grading standards apply to all our in‑shell varieties, including Badami, Ahmad Aghaei, Akbari, Kalleghuchi and Fandoghi. Ready to order? Request a quote for container loads.
Which In‑Shell Pistachio Grade Is Right for Your Market?
Use this quick guide to match each grade with your target application:
- Fancy Grade – Premium retail, gift packs, high‑end markets.
- Extra Grade – Supermarket snack packs, quality‑conscious brands.
- Grade 1 – Food processing, bulk confectionery, bakery inclusions.
- Grade 2 – Industrial ingredients, price‑sensitive markets, large‑scale production.
Why Importers Choose NITC for In-Shell Pistachios
- Direct from the Source: Control of the process from orchard to shipment ensures freshness and eliminates unnecessary intermediaries.
- Uncompromising Quality: The “Pure & Natural” philosophy delivers pistachios as nature intended, with no compromises on quality.
- Complete Grade Selection: From commercial volumes to premium specialty grades, the specific needs of any market can be met.
- Flexible & Reliable Supply: No quantity limitations exist, and a consistent supply is ensured to support business growth.
- Standard Packaging: 50 kg bags.
(Custom Packaging: Specific packaging requirements are gladly accommodated.)
Request a Quote for In-Shell Pistachio Grades
We offer fair and competitive pricing for all grades, tailored to your order volume and requirements.
Contact us today for pricing and to place your order: