Clove Powder

Appearance: Fine, uniform, brown to dark brown powder.

Aroma & Flavor: Strong, warm, sweet-spicy aroma with the characteristic pungency of clove.

Texture: Smooth, dry, free-flowing, without lumps or caking.

Moisture Content: ≤ 10% (to prevent mold and extend shelf life).

Foreign Matter: Free from woody particles, dust, stones, or other adulterants.

Volatile Oil Content: ≥ 15% (rich in eugenol, the main active compound).

Ash Content:

• Total Ash ≤ 7%

• Acid-insoluble Ash ≤ 1.5%

Pesticide Residues: Must comply with importer country’s Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs).

Aflatoxins & Heavy Metals: Must be within Codex/EU/ASTA standards.

Free from Salmonella, E. coli, and other harmful microbes.

Yeast and mold counts within Codex/ASTA safe limits.

Often treated with steam sterilization or irradiation before export to sensitive markets.

Bulk Exports: 25–50 kg HDPE bags, kraft paper bags, or fiber drums with food-grade liners.

Retail Exports: 50 g – 1 kg laminated pouches, PET jars, or vacuum packs.

Special Packaging: Vacuum-sealed or nitrogen-flushed packs to retain aroma and prevent oxidation.

Labeling: Must include product name, grade, net weight, batch/lot no., date of packing, expiry date, country of origin, and certifications.

Grades: Based on aroma strength, oil content, and cleanliness.

Shelf Life: 12–18 months (powder form loses aroma faster than whole cloves).

Certifications: HACCP, ISO, FSSAI, Organic (if required), ASTA compliance.

Traceability: Increasingly required for premium buyers (EU, USA, Middle East).