Cashew nuts have become a staple in Canadian households due to their delectability and versatility. They are widely recognized for their nutritional benefits since they are rich in proteins, healthy fats and essential minerals. They are also used to enhance many culinary dishes such as adding crunch to some dishes and also used as desserts. Diet enthusiasts are also advised to include cashew nuts in their food in regular amounts so as to enhance their mineral intake.
Cashew Nuts Canada
Canada’s climate is mainly characterized by cold winters and it also has a short growing season. These conditions are not suitable for cashew cultivation which thrive in warm tropical and sub-tropical climates. Therefore, Canada mainly imports its cashews from cashew producing countries to cater for growing demand.
Cashew nuts are majorly consumed in populous provinces such as Ontario, Quebec and British Columbia. Major cashew importers are also found within these regions. The cashews are then transported to other regions in the country where people can purchase them.
Canada also imports raw cashew nuts which are then processed in the country. The interest in Canadian cashew nuts has increased over the years hence the country also gains from exporting processed cashew nuts.
Cashews Canada
Canada imports cashew nuts throughout the year. In 2022, the country shipped in over 14,800 tonnes of cashew nuts. It is a slight decrease from the previous year where the country shipped in over 15,600 tonnes of cashew nuts; although it is another record high volume. This data includes both raw cashew nuts (in-shell) and shelled cashews.
Cashew imports in Canada have enjoyed a steady growth over the last decade. The highest volume was recorded in 2019 where the country shipped in over 15,700 tonnes of cashew nuts. The highest jump in volume was recorded from 2017 to 2018 with an increase of over 1800%.
Here is the import volume of cashew nuts between 2013 and 2022
Importing Cashew Nuts into Canada
Here is some key information on cashew nut imports in Canada.
Cashew Supplying Countries to Canada
The following are countries which supply Canada with cashew nuts throughout the year.
- Vietnam
- United States
- Brazil
- Nigeria
- India
Others include:
- Kenya
- Tanzania
- Burkina Faso
Canada brings cashews from abroad through one of its busiest airports. Cashews get in the country as air freight through Toronto Pearson International Airport since it has a modern cargo terminal.
The other way cashews enter Canada is through one of its main commercial sea ports. Cashews get into the country as sea freight through the Port of Vancouver. The sea port has a modern container terminal.
Requirements for Cashew Nut Imports
The following are rules and regulations set by the Canadian government for all cashew nut imports:
- Cashew importers must obtain an import license from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA).
- The cashews must be labelled in French or English and essential details such as country of origin must be included.
- Cashew nuts must meet pesticide residue limits set by the CFIA and in case of excess they may be prevented from entering the country.
- Microbiological standards set by the CFIA are rules set in place to limit the number of microorganisms that can be present in food products.
- A phytosanitary certificate must be presented as proof that the cashew nuts have been inspected.
Cashew nut importers must ensure that they meet all the requirements set in place by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency and Food and Drugs Act Regulations.
Here is a top cashew exporter in Kenya
Freshela Exporters
Freshela is a Kenyan based company that engages in the sourcing, processing and exporting of cashew nuts and other fresh produce.
Freshela is a proud exporter of raw cashew nuts and shelled cashews. We give competitive pricing to our customers and guarantee reliable delivery time.