Dried cardamom
| Photo Credit: JOMON PAMPAVALLEY
The Spices Board has directed cardamom auction companies to ensure that proper moisture is maintained in dried cardamom capsules arriving for auction.
An intimation notice has been issued to all registered auction companies regarding maintenance of moisture level and quality in cardamom after receiving reports that capsules with excess moisture content was arriving in market.
According to Multi Commodity Exchange of India Limited standards, 9% is the ideal moisture level for dried cardamom.
“Freshly harvested cardamom (which has about 70–85% moisture) should be cured quickly, preferably within 24 hours, and dried for a minimum of 18 to 24 hours to achieve recommended moisture level,” said a Spice Board source. If the capsules are not properly dried, their colour will fade within two or three months and will have fungal infection.
“If cardamoms are not properly dried, they will crumble when pressed too hard and will have less shelf-life. Such capsules will negatively impact the export and market price,” said the source.
Stany Pothen, chairperson of the Cardamom Planters Federation, said the federation has directed farmers against inadequate drying of cardamoms and the use of artificial colours as such practices will affect their quality.
“The board and the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India should conduct routine inspections in drying units to avoid malpractice,” he said.
Published – August 15, 2025 08:19 pm IST
