NITC Pistachio Quality Grading

We supply the highest quality, naturally opened in-shell pistachios directly from our orchards and trusted partner farms in Iran. Our commitment is to provide you with a product that consistently meets the most rigorous international standards for size, purity, and taste.

Every batch of our pistachios is grown under the Iranian sun, in ideal climate conditions that produce kernels renowned for their rich flavor and vibrant green color. We specialize in naturally opened pistachios, ensuring a superior, undamaged product for your customers.

NITC pistachio grading and safety standard

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.

Cultivation & Safety Standards
Cultivation & Safety Standards
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.
In-Shell Pistachio Specifications
In-Shell Pistachio Specifications
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.

 

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Why Choose NITC In-Shell Pistachios?

  • Direct from the Source: We control the process from orchard to shipment, guaranteeing freshness and eliminating unnecessary intermediaries.
  • Uncompromising Quality: Our “Pure & Natural” philosophy means we deliver pistachios as nature intended, with no compromises on quality.
  • Complete Grade Selection: From commercial volumes to premium specialty grades, we can meet the specific needs of your market.
  • Flexible & Reliable Supply: We are not limited by quantity and can ensure a consistent supply to support your business growth.
  • Standard Packaging: 50 kg bags.
    (Custom Packaging: We gladly accommodate your specific packaging requirements.)

Request Your Custom Quote

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: