Raw Hazelnut Kernels Buyer’s Guide

Why raw kernels matter for industrial applications

In their natural state, hazelnut kernels retain maximum flavor potential, full oil composition, and optimal structural integrity. Raw kernels are purchased either for direct processing (roasting, chopping, slicing, milling) or as an input for value-added ingredients such as praliné, paste, flour and inclusions. Their performance depends heavily on agricultural origin, post-harvest handling, drying methodology, and industrial sorting.

Key evaluation criteria for procurement teams

When negotiating raw kernel purchases, experienced buyers evaluate the following parameters:

• Caliber (size grading): influences appearance, roasting behavior and end-use suitability.
• Moisture content: directly affects shelf life, roasting stability and oil migration.
• Defect tolerances: shrivel, mould, stain, damage and foreign matter must align with QA demands.
• Crop year & freshness: new-crop kernels behave differently from late-season stock.
• Origin & cultivar: Tombul delivers the most refined flavor; Foşa and Çakıldak offer robust profiles.
• Sorting method: optical sorters, manual picking and electronic graders define consistency.

Caliber sizing: the most important variable

Raw hazelnut kernels are globally traded in standardized size ranges. Each size correlates to specific industrial uses:

• 9–11 mm: widely used for chopping, slicing, flour and paste production.
• 11–13 mm: most common grade for chocolate and general applications.
• 13–15 mm: premium grade for whole-nut inclusions, tablets and luxury pralines.
• 15+ mm (rare): sourced for special retail and artisanal applications, limited availability.

Buyers should specify allowable size variation and request calibrated lots where required.

Moisture levels & storage stability

Moisture is a defining quality parameter. Raw kernels typically range from 3–5%, depending on drying, region and storage. Lower moisture improves roasting consistency but increases brittleness. Higher moisture reduces breakage but increases oxidative risk. Moisture must align with processing conditions and transit time.

Defect tolerances & quality appearance

Defect levels influence price, usability and QA acceptance. Typical specifications include:

• Damaged kernels: 2–4%
• Shrivel: 1–2%
• Dark skin/stain: customer-specific
• Foreign matter: nil
• Aflatoxin: certified lots available with third-party tests

For critical applications like premium chocolate inclusions, stricter tolerances are required. Buyers should provide their intended product use to ensure correct sorting standards.

Origin influence: why Turkish hazelnuts dominate

Türkiye supplies more than two-thirds of global hazelnut production. Its coastal, temperate climate supports slow maturation of hazelnuts with exceptionally smooth flavor. Tombul, the flagship cultivar, is prized for its:

• High oil content and balanced nutty flavor
• Uniform roasting behavior
• Excellent cracking yield and low defect rates
• Strong performance in pastes, inclusions and spreads

How buyers should choose raw kernels for different applications

For chocolate manufacturing

• Prefer 11–13 mm or 13–15 mm for visible inclusions.
• Low defect tolerance ensures visual quality.
• Consistent roasting behavior is critical.

For roasting and nut mixes

• Uniform moisture improves flavor development.
• Caliber uniformity ensures even roasting color.

For milling, flour, meal & paste production

• 9–11 mm is typically sufficient and cost-effective.
• Lower defect levels improve paste flavor and oxidative stability.

Procurement strategy & negotiation tips

To ensure stable supply and pricing, industrial buyers should:

• Request calibrated lots with documented tolerances.
• Share annual volume expectations to secure better contract terms.
• Define moisture and defect tolerances in writing.
• Clarify packaging preferences (vacuum, cartons, big bags).
• Request pre-shipment inspection when necessary.

Long-term sourcing programs with reliable exporters offer better stability, especially during seasonal market fluctuations and raw material shortages.

Conclusion: choosing the right raw kernels for your production line

Selecting the correct raw kernel specification ensures consistent product quality, predictable processing behavior and stable procurement planning. With Türkiye’s strong agricultural base and advanced processing infrastructure, buyers can access highly controlled, traceable and calibrated raw hazelnut kernels aligned with industrial performance expectations.