When setting up a processing factory, the investor may adopt a range of methods or models. The commonly adopted processing models at the heat treatment stage of the cashew processing process are steam & cut, drum roasting and oil bath roasting (see table 3).
What is raw cashew nut processing?
The final edible consumer product is the cashew kernel. This complex process results in high value addition to the raw cashew nut. The objectives of raw cashew nut processing are: Maintaining the natural taste of the kernels. Note that naturally tasting cashew kernels are free from chlorophenol off flavours.
How long does cashew processing take?
Supervision: Cashew processing is a sequence of technical processes. It can take up to 7 days for a raw cashew nut to go through all the steps of the processing process. Mistakes at any stage of the process can reduce kernel quality or quantity and thus loss of revenue.
What are the different types of cashew processing systems?
The choice of technology mix, availability of labour and technical expertise for raw cashew nut processing in several countries has resulted in different cashew processing systems. The three widely-used systems are (1) Manual, (2) Semi-Mechanised and (3) Mechanised Systems.