Premium Small Cardamom
Export Quality Elettaria cardamomum from Kerala Hills
- Origin Kerala Hills, India
- Grade Premium (3-8% Essential Oil)
- Moisture Max 12%
- Essential Oil 3-8%
- Packing 50kg PP bags / bulk
- Export FOB/CIF - Container loads
- Certified FSSAI, Spices Board, Organic
- Harvest September to February
- Shelf Life 24 months
- Varieties AGEB, AGB, AGS, CGEB
Export Quality Small Cardamom - Trusted Indian Spice Trader & Bulk Supplier
As a trusted indian spice trader and bulk spice supplier, we leverage Kerala's small cardamom representing the pinnacle of global spice quality. Our merchant export model connects international spice manufacturers and spice wholesalers with certified suppliers across Kerala's Western Ghats. From traditional flue-pipe curing to modern processing, we serve bulk spice requirements from 100kg to container loads, making us the preferred spice exporter for premium AGEB, AGB, and AGS grades.
International spice traders and bulk spice suppliers choose our small cardamom for consistent quality and professional export services. Whether you're a spice manufacturer seeking bulk indian spices with 4-8% essential oil content or a spice wholesaler requiring certified organic varieties, our merchant export capabilities ensure reliable supply chains across Middle East, Europe, North America, and Asia-Pacific. From 100kg sample quantities to container loads of 5+ metric tons, we serve global spice suppliers with complete export documentation and quality assurance.
Basic Information
| Common Name: | Small Cardamom |
| Botanical Name: | Elettaria cardamomum (L.) Maton |
| Family: | Zingiberaceae |
| Origin: | Western Ghats, Kerala & Karnataka, India |
| Harvest Season: | October to February |
| Part Used: | Dried pods with seeds |
| Shelf Life: | 24 months from processing |
Multi-Language Names
| Hindi: | छोटी इलायची (Choti Elaichi) |
| Tamil: | ஏலக்காய் (Elakkai) |
| Malayalam: | ഏലം (Elam) |
| French: | Cardamome Verte |
| German: | Grüner Kardamom |
| Spanish: | Cardamomo Verde |
| Arabic: | هيل (Hail) |
Why Choose Our Small Cardamom - Trusted Indian Spice Trader & Bulk Supplier
As a leading indian spice trader and bulk spice supplier, we offer comprehensive solutions for international spice manufacturers, spice wholesalers, and bulk spice importers. Our merchant export model ensures competitive pricing, consistent quality, and reliable supply chains for small cardamom sourcing from Kerala's premier growing regions.
Trusted Spice Merchant
Established relationships with certified farmers and processors across Kerala's Western Ghats cardamom hills, ensuring authentic bulk indian spices at competitive wholesale rates. Our spice trader network provides direct access to premium AGEB, AGB, and AGS grades with exceptional essential oil content.
Bulk Spice Specialists
Custom packaging and bulk quantities from 100kg to container loads, serving international spice suppliers and bulk spice importers worldwide. Professional spice exporter services with complete documentation and quality assurance for premium spice markets.
Quality Assured Export
FSSAI, ISO 22000, HACCP, and organic certifications ensure our small cardamom meets international standards. Spice manufacturers and indian spice suppliers trust our quality control processes for consistent essential oil content and aromatic intensity.
Global Bulk Distribution
Efficient logistics network serving spice wholesalers across Middle East, Europe, North America, and Asia-Pacific with competitive freight rates. Our bulk spice supplier capabilities include FOB/CIF pricing and container load optimization for maximum cost efficiency.
Available Varieties & Export Grades
Malabar Variety
Characterized by prostrate panicles, medium-sized pods with excellent aroma. Traditional variety from Kerala's cardamom hills.
- Panicle Type: Prostrate
- Pod Size: Medium to large
- Oil Content: 4-6%
- Best For: Traditional spice trade, Arab markets
Mysore Variety
Distinguished by erect panicles, higher essential oil content with elevated cineole and limonene levels for stronger aroma.
- Panicle Type: Erect
- Pod Size: Medium
- Oil Content: 6-8%
- Best For: Food processing, essential oil extraction
Vazhukka Variety
Natural hybrid combining characteristics of both Malabar and Mysore, offering balanced size and oil content.
- Panicle Type: Semi-erect
- Pod Size: Large
- Oil Content: 5-7%
- Best For: Export markets, premium applications
International Export Grades
AGEB - Alleppey Green Extra Bold
Premium export grade with largest pod size (8mm+), bold green color, and highest essential oil content. Most demanded in international markets.
- Pod Size: 8mm and above
- Weight/Liter: 435g minimum
- Color: Bold green
- Oil Content: 6-8%
- Market: Middle East, Europe, North America
AGB - Alleppey Green Bold
Standard export grade with good pod size (7mm+) and consistent quality. Widely traded globally for commercial applications.
- Pod Size: 7mm and above
- Weight/Liter: 415g minimum
- Color: Green
- Oil Content: 5-7%
- Market: Food processing, spice blends
AGS - Alleppey Green Superior
Superior quality grade with medium-large pods (6.5mm+), excellent color retention, and good essential oil content.
- Pod Size: 6.5mm and above
- Weight/Liter: 385g minimum
- Color: Green to light green
- Oil Content: 4-6%
- Market: Retail packaging, consumer markets
CGEB - Coorg Green Extra Bold
Premium grade from Karnataka's Coorg region, known for distinctive flavor profile and consistent large pod size.
- Pod Size: 8mm and above
- Weight/Liter: 430g minimum
- Color: Dark green
- Oil Content: 5-7%
- Market: Specialty spice markets, gourmet
Complete Product Specifications
| Parameter | Specification | Testing Method | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | India (Kerala & Karnataka States) | Certificate of Origin | Western Ghats region |
| Harvest Period | October to February | Farmer Records | Peak season quality |
| Processing Method | Flue-pipe curing, kiln drying | Process Documentation | Traditional + modern methods |
| Storage Conditions | Cool, dry place, 55-65% RH | Storage Guidelines | Moisture-proof containers |
| Shelf Life | 24 months (pods), 18 months (ground) | Stability Studies | Proper storage conditions |
| GMO Status | Non-GMO | Declaration | Naturally grown |
| Irradiation | Not irradiated | Process Declaration | Natural processing only |
| Parameter | AGEB | AGB | AGS | Testing Method |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pod Size/Length | 8mm and above | 7mm and above | 6.5mm and above | Sieve analysis |
| Color | Bold green | Green | Green to light green | Visual inspection |
| Weight per Liter | 435g minimum | 415g minimum | 385g minimum | Volume measurement |
| Moisture Content | 8-10% max | 8-10% max | 8-10% max | Oven drying method |
| Foreign Matter | 2% max | 3% max | 4% max | Manual sorting |
| Empty/Malformed Capsules | 3% max | 4% max | 5% max | Manual count (100 pods) |
| Immature/Shrivelled | 5% max | 6% max | 7% max | Visual grading |
| Parameter | Specification | Testing Method | Standard Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Essential Oil Content | 4-8% (grade dependent) | Steam Distillation | IS 1907:1984 |
| α-Terpinyl Acetate | 32-45% | GC-MS Analysis | ISO 11024-2 |
| 1,8-Cineole (Eucalyptol) | 23-35% | GC-MS Analysis | ISO 11024-2 |
| α-Terpineol | 0.8-13% | GC-MS Analysis | Internal Method |
| Total Ash | 6% max | AOAC 942.05 | ASTA Method 3.0 |
| Acid Insoluble Ash | 1.5% max | AOAC 941.12 | ASTA Method 3.0 |
| Aflatoxin B1 | <5 ppb | ELISA/LC-MS/MS | EU Regulation |
| Total Aflatoxins | <10 ppb | ELISA/LC-MS/MS | EU Regulation |
| Heavy Metals (Lead) | <3.0 ppm | ICP-MS | EU Regulation |
| Pesticide Residues | Below MRL limits | GC-MS/LC-MS | EU/US/Japan MRL |
| Salmonella | Absent in 25g | USP Method | USP <62> |
| E.coli | <10 cfu/g | Plate Count Method | ISO 16649 |
| Package Type | Weight Options | Material | MOQ | Container Load |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Multiwall Paper Bags | 25kg, 50kg | Food grade kraft paper with PE liner | 500 kg | 4-5 MT (20ft FCL) |
| Polypropylene Bags | 25kg, 50kg | Virgin PP woven bags with PE liner | 500 kg | 5-6 MT (20ft FCL) |
| Jute Bags with LDPE Lining | 50kg, 100kg | 100 gauge LDPE lined jute bags | 1000 kg | 4-5 MT (20ft FCL) |
| Consumer Retail Packs | 50g, 100g, 250g, 500g | Stand-up pouches with zip lock | 2000 pcs | As per pack size |
| Private Label Tins | 100g, 250g, 500g | Food grade metal tins with airtight lids | 5000 pcs | As per tin size |
| Vacuum Packed | 1kg, 5kg, 10kg | Multi-layer barrier films | 100 kg | Extended shelf life |
| Moisture-Proof Containers | 5kg, 10kg, 20kg | HDPE containers with gasket seals | 250 kg | 3-4 MT (20ft FCL) |
| Product Form | HS Code | Required Documentation | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small Cardamom (Whole Pods) | 09083120 | Certificate of Origin, Phytosanitary Certificate | AGEB, AGB, AGS, CGEB grades |
| Cardamom Seeds (Decorticated) | 09083220 | Certificate of Origin, Quality Analysis Report | Seeds removed from pods |
| Ground Cardamom Powder | 09083220 | Certificate of Origin, Quality Analysis Report | Various mesh sizes |
| Cardamom Essential Oil | 33012990 | Certificate of Origin, COA, MSDS | Steam distilled oil |
| Cardamom Oleoresin | 13021990 | Certificate of Origin, COA, MSDS | Solvent extracted |
| Cardamom Extract | 21039090 | Certificate of Origin, COA, MSDS | Concentrated extracts |
Standard Export Documents
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Certificate of Origin (Chamber of Commerce)
- Phytosanitary Certificate (Plant Quarantine)
- Quality Analysis Report (Lab Tested)
- FSSAI License Copy
- Spice Board RCMC Certificate
Market-Specific Requirements
- USA: FDA Prior Notice, Bioterrorism Act compliance
- EU: RASFF notification, Novel Food regulation compliance
- Middle East: Halal certification, Arabic labeling
- Japan: MOH Import notification, JAS standards
- Australia: AQIS import permit, biosecurity requirements
- Canada: CFIA compliance, bilingual labeling
Products Available (Made from Small Cardamom)
Various value-added products derived from premium small cardamom for different industrial and culinary applications.
Cardamom Powder
Fine ground powder from decorticated seeds, various mesh sizes (40-100 mesh) for culinary and industrial use.
20-100 MeshCardamom Essential Oil
Steam distilled essential oil rich in α-terpinyl acetate and 1,8-cineole for aromatherapy and flavoring.
4-8% YieldCardamom Oleoresin
Concentrated extract with essential oils and flavor compounds for food industry applications.
ConcentratedDecorticated Seeds
Pure cardamom seeds with husks removed, higher oil content per weight for specialized applications.
Pure SeedsCardamom Spice Blends
Custom blends with other spices for garam masala, chai masala, and regional spice mixes.
Custom BlendOrganic Cardamom Products
Certified organic cardamom pods and derived products for health-conscious consumers and premium markets.
Organic CertifiedUsage & Applications
Middle Eastern Gahwa (Arabic Coffee)
Primary use in traditional Arabic coffee preparation, symbol of hospitality across Arab nations. Essential ingredient in Saudi, UAE, and Gulf countries for ceremonial and daily consumption.
Usage: Whole pods ground with coffee beans | Markets: Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait, QatarScandinavian Baking & Confectionery
Traditional ingredient in Nordic baked goods, pastries, and confectionery. Essential for authentic Swedish cardamom buns, Danish pastries, and Norwegian cookies.
Form: Ground powder preferred | Products: Cardamom buns, cookies, cakes, breadIndian Cuisine & Spice Blends
Key ingredient in garam masala, biryani, curries, and traditional sweets. Used in both whole and ground forms across various regional Indian cuisines.
Usage: Whole pods and ground seeds | Blends: Garam masala, biryani masala, chai masalaDesserts & Sweet Applications
Premium flavoring for ice creams, chocolates, premium desserts, and luxury confectionery products in international markets.
Form: Essential oil, powder, whole pods | Products: Premium ice cream, artisan chocolatesChai & Tea Blends
Essential ingredient in masala chai, traditional tea blends, and commercial tea products for domestic and international markets.
Usage: Whole pods crushed, ground powder | Markets: Global tea industry, instant chai productsAlcoholic Beverages
Flavoring agent in liqueurs, gin botanicals, and specialty alcoholic beverages for premium spirits and craft distilleries.
Form: Whole pods, essential oil | Applications: Gin, liqueurs, flavored spiritsNon-Alcoholic Beverages
Natural flavoring in soft drinks, health drinks, and functional beverages for authentic spice flavor profiles.
Form: Essential oil, extract | Products: Sodas, energy drinks, wellness beveragesDigestive Health Supplements
Traditional use in Ayurvedic medicine for digestive disorders, stomach ulcers, and gastrointestinal health. Modern supplements leverage these benefits.
Active: Essential oils, antioxidants | Benefits: Digestive aid, anti-ulcer, carminativeRespiratory Health Products
1,8-cineole content provides respiratory benefits, used in cough syrups, throat lozenges, and respiratory wellness products.
Compound: Eucalyptol/cineole | Applications: Cough medicine, throat care, bronchial supportOral Care Products
Antimicrobial properties utilized in toothpastes, mouthwashes, and breath freshening products for natural oral hygiene.
Properties: Antimicrobial, breath freshening | Products: Natural toothpaste, mouthwashAromatherapy & Essential Oils
Pure essential oil for aromatherapy, stress relief, and wellness applications in spa and personal care industries.
Benefits: Stress relief, mental clarity, respiratory support | Uses: Diffusers, massage oilsFood Processing Industry
Large-scale food manufacturing for ready-to-eat meals, processed foods, and commercial spice blends requiring consistent quality and supply.
Form: Ground powder, essential oil | Applications: Commercial food production, spice mixesFlavor & Fragrance Industry
Essential oil and oleoresin for natural flavoring compounds in food additives, perfumes, and cosmetic formulations.
Extract: Essential oil, oleoresin | Industries: F&F companies, cosmetics, perfumeryResearch & Development
Pharmaceutical research for bioactive compounds, antioxidant studies, and development of natural health products and nutraceuticals.
Research: Antioxidant properties, anti-inflammatory compounds, digestive health studiesExport & Global Distribution
Bulk export to international spice traders, distributors, and food manufacturers for further processing and regional distribution.
Markets: Middle East (60%), Europe (20%), USA (15%), Asia-Pacific (5%) | Packaging: 25kg-1000kg containersHealth Benefits & Nutritional Value
Small cardamom is renowned for its numerous health benefits, backed by traditional wisdom and modern scientific research.
Digestive Health
- Carminative Properties: Reduces gas, bloating, and stomach discomfort
- Digestive Enzymes: Stimulates production of digestive juices
- Anti-Ulcer: Protects stomach lining from gastric ulcers
- Nausea Relief: Traditional remedy for morning sickness and motion sickness
Cardiovascular Support
- Blood Pressure: May help reduce hypertension naturally
- Antioxidants: Rich in compounds that protect heart health
- Circulation: Improves blood circulation and heart function
- Cholesterol: May help maintain healthy cholesterol levels
Respiratory Health
- 1,8-Cineole: Natural bronchodilator and decongestant
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces respiratory tract inflammation
- Antimicrobial: Fights respiratory infections naturally
- Expectorant: Helps clear mucus from airways
Oral Health
- Antimicrobial: Fights bacteria causing bad breath and cavities
- Breath Freshener: Natural mouth freshening properties
- Gum Health: Anti-inflammatory benefits for periodontal health
- Traditional Use: Chewed after meals for oral hygiene