Premium Small Cardamom
High grade small cardamom from Kerala's Western Ghats sourced by trusted Indian spice traders and bulk ingredient suppliers worldwide. These seeds are rich in essential oils (4% to 8%) from a reliable spice merchant providing handpicked AGEB, AGB, and AGS grades. VH Global Export offers competitive pricing for bulk spices along with complete export documentation and quality certification for all premium international shipments.
Kerala Hills, India
Premium (3–8% Essential Oil)
Max 12%
3–8%
50kg PP bags / bulk
FOB / CIF – Container loads
FSSAI, Spices Board, Organic
September to February
24 months
AGEB, AGB, AGS, CGEB
Export Quality Small Cardamom: Trusted Indian Spice Trader and Bulk Supplier
As a trusted Indian spice merchant and bulk ingredient supplier, we utilize Kerala's small cardamom which represents the pinnacle of global spice quality. Our merchant export model links international food manufacturers and wholesale distributors with certified suppliers across the lush Western Ghats of Kerala. From traditional flue pipe curing to modern industrial processing, we fulfill bulk spice needs ranging from 100kg lots to full container shipments, establishing ourselves as the preferred spice exporter for premium AGEB, AGB, and AGS grades.
International trading firms and bulk spice distributors select our small cardamom because of our steady quality standards and expert export logistics. Whether you are a manufacturing entity looking for bulk Indian spices with 4% to 8% essential oil content or a regional wholesaler needing certified organic varieties, our professional export team guarantees a stable supply chain throughout the Middle East, Europe, and North America. Managing everything from 100kg sample lots to massive shipments of 5 metric tons, we support global partners with verified paperwork and total quality assurance.
Basic Information
Multi-Language Names
Available Varieties & Export Grades
Malabar Variety
Characterized by prostrate panicles, medium-sized pods with excellent aroma. Traditional variety from Kerala's cardamom hills.
- Panicle TypeProstrate
- Pod SizeMedium to large
- Oil Content4–6%
- Best ForTraditional spice trade, Arab markets
Mysore Variety
Distinguished by erect panicles, higher essential oil content with elevated cineole and limonene levels for stronger aroma.
- Panicle TypeErect
- Pod SizeMedium
- Oil Content6–8%
- Best ForFood processing, essential oil extraction
Vazhukka Variety
Natural hybrid combining characteristics of both Malabar and Mysore, offering balanced size and oil content.
- Panicle TypeSemi-erect
- Pod SizeLarge
- Oil Content5–7%
- Best ForExport 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 Size8 mm and above
- Weight / Liter435 g minimum
- ColorBold green
- Oil Content6–8%
- MarketMiddle 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 Size7 mm and above
- Weight / Liter415 g minimum
- ColorGreen
- Oil Content5–7%
- MarketFood 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 Size6.5 mm and above
- Weight / Liter385 g minimum
- ColorGreen to light green
- Oil Content4–6%
- MarketRetail 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 Size8 mm and above
- Weight / Liter430 g minimum
- ColorDark green
- Oil Content5–7%
- MarketSpecialty 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 |
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.
Cardamom Essential Oil
Steam distilled essential oil rich in α-terpinyl acetate and 1,8-cineole for aromatherapy and flavoring.
Cardamom Oleoresin
Concentrated extract with essential oils and flavor compounds for food industry applications.
Decorticated Seeds
Pure cardamom seeds with husks removed, higher oil content per weight for specialized applications.
Cardamom Spice Blends
Custom blends with other spices for garam masala, chai masala, and regional spice mixes.
Organic Cardamom Products
Certified organic cardamom pods and derived products for health-conscious consumers and premium markets.
Usage & 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.
Scandinavian Baking & Confectionery
Traditional ingredient in Nordic baked goods, pastries, and confectionery. Essential for authentic Swedish cardamom buns, Danish pastries, and Norwegian cookies.
Indian 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.
Desserts & Sweet Applications
Premium flavoring for ice creams, chocolates, premium desserts, and luxury confectionery products in international markets.
Health Benefits & Nutritional Value
Small cardamom is renowned for its numerous health benefits, backed by traditional wisdom and modern scientific research.
Digestive Health
- Carminative PropertiesReduces gas, bloating, and stomach discomfort
- Digestive EnzymesStimulates production of digestive juices
- Anti-UlcerProtects stomach lining from gastric ulcers
- Nausea ReliefTraditional remedy for morning sickness and motion sickness
Cardiovascular Support
- Blood PressureMay help reduce hypertension naturally
- AntioxidantsRich in compounds that protect heart health
- CirculationImproves blood circulation and heart function
- CholesterolMay help maintain healthy cholesterol levels
Respiratory Health
- 1,8-CineoleNatural bronchodilator and decongestant
- Anti-inflammatoryReduces respiratory tract inflammation
- AntimicrobialFights respiratory infections naturally
- ExpectorantHelps clear mucus from airways
Oral Health
- AntimicrobialFights bacteria causing bad breath and cavities
- Breath FreshenerNatural mouth freshening properties
- Gum HealthAnti-inflammatory benefits for periodontal health
- Traditional UseChewed after meals for oral hygiene
Frequently Asked Questions
for our Small Cardamom
Why is Indian small cardamom called the "Queen of Spices"?
Why is Indian small cardamom called the "Queen of Spices"?
Indian small cardamom is called the "Queen of Spices" due to its exquisite aroma, complex flavor profile, and premium market position as the world's third most expensive spice after saffron and vanilla. Kerala's unique climate and traditional processing methods produce cardamom with the highest essential oil content (4-8%) and the perfect balance of α-terpinyl acetate and 1,8-cineole compounds that create its distinctive sweet, floral, and slightly camphor-like aroma.
What is the difference between AGEB, AGB, and AGS grades?
What is the difference between AGEB, AGB, and AGS grades?
AGEB (Alleppey Green Extra Bold) is the premium export grade with pods 8mm+ in size, bold green color, and highest essential oil content. AGB (Alleppey Green Bold) has pods 7mm+ with good green color and standard oil content. AGS (Alleppey Green Superior) contains pods 6.5mm+ with light green color. All grades maintain excellent quality, but AGEB commands premium prices in international markets due to its superior size and aroma intensity.
How do you ensure quality consistency across different harvest seasons?
How do you ensure quality consistency across different harvest seasons?
We maintain quality consistency through our merchant export model with pre-qualified suppliers, standardized curing processes (flue-pipe and kiln drying), comprehensive testing for essential oil content, moisture, and physical parameters, and proper storage in moisture-controlled environments (55-65% RH). Our suppliers follow strict harvesting protocols (3/4 maturity stage) and traditional processing methods that preserve the natural oils and characteristic green color.
What are your minimum order quantities and seasonal availability?
What are your minimum order quantities and seasonal availability?
Minimum orders: 100kg for sample orders, 500kg for commercial shipments, 2000 pieces for private label. Peak harvest season (October-February) offers best pricing and quality. We maintain strategic inventory to ensure year-round supply. Lead times: 7-10 days for ex-stock items, 15-21 days for custom processing. Container loads: 4-6 MT depending on packaging type.
Do you provide organic certification and what documentation is included?
Do you provide organic certification and what documentation is included?
Yes, we supply certified organic small cardamom with NPOP (India), EU Organic, and USDA Organic certifications. All shipments include: quality analysis report with essential oil content, certificate of origin, phytosanitary certificate, organic certification (where applicable), FSSAI license, Spice Board RCMC, and market-specific documentation (FDA, EU notifications). Free samples up to 250g available for quality verification.
What makes Kerala cardamom superior to other origins like Guatemala?
What makes Kerala cardamom superior to other origins like Guatemala?
Kerala cardamom is superior due to its natural habitat in the Western Ghats' unique microclimate (600-1500m altitude), traditional cultivation methods passed down through generations, selective hand-picking at optimal maturity, and specialized curing processes that preserve maximum essential oil content. Kerala cardamom has higher α-terpinyl acetate content (32-45% vs Guatemala's 25-35%) and distinct flavor profile preferred in premium markets, especially Middle Eastern gahwa and European confectionery applications.
How should small cardamom be stored for maximum freshness?
How should small cardamom be stored for maximum freshness?
Optimal storage: temperature below 25°C, relative humidity 55-65%, moisture-proof containers (jute bags with LDPE lining or HDPE containers), protection from direct sunlight and strong odors. Whole pods retain freshness longer than ground cardamom. Proper storage maintains essential oil content and green color for 24 months. Vacuum packaging extends shelf life by preventing moisture absorption and volatile oil loss.
Parejiya, Alkapuri 1 Plot No 15, Raiya Road, Near Hanuman Madhi, Rajkot-360007, Gujarat, India
For Export Trade
For Domestic Trade