Cumin Seed Powder

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

Flavor & Aroma: Strong, warm, earthy, slightly bitter taste with a distinct cumin aroma.

Texture: Smooth and free-flowing (no lumps, caking, or stickiness).

Moisture Content: Below 10% (to prevent microbial growth and maintain freshness).

Foreign Matter: Free from husks, stones, dust, insects, or other impurities.

Volatile Oil Content: Should be ≥ 1.5% (main compound: cuminaldehyde which gives the aroma).

Ash Content:

• Total Ash ≤ 9%

• Acid-insoluble Ash ≤ 1.5%

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

Aflatoxin Levels: Must be within safe international limits (commonly <10 ppb for EU).

Pathogens: Free from Salmonella, E. coli, and other harmful bacteria.

Molds & Yeast: Within Codex/ASTA standards.

Treatment: May undergo steam sterilization or irradiation as per buyer requirements.

Material: Food-grade, moisture-proof bags, laminated pouches, PET jars, or vacuum packs.

Bulk Exports: 25 kg / 50 kg HDPE bags with inner liners.

Retail Exports: 100 g – 1 kg pouches/jars.

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

Grades: Based on purity, oil content, and fineness of grind.

Shelf Life: 12–18 months (if stored in cool, dry, airtight conditions).

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

Traceability: Must be traceable to farm/processing unit.