Authors: Fida Sherin
Abstract: Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum Maton), known as the “Queen of Spices”, is one of India’s most valuable export commodities because of its unique aroma, flavor and essential oil content. The quality of export-grade cardamom depends on scientific post-harvest processing and comprehensive laboratory quality evaluation. The present study aimed to evaluate the processing operations and quality parameters of export-grade cardamom processed at VEBARO Trading & Export Pvt. Ltd., Wayanad, Kerala. The processing stages included harvesting, washing, grading, drying, polishing, sorting, quality inspection, packaging and storage. Quality evaluation was performed through physicochemical, microbiological and chemical analyses. Parameters such as moisture content, volatile oil, total ash, acid insoluble ash, extraneous matter, microbial load, pesticide residues and heavy metals were assessed according to export quality requirements. The results indicated that scientifically processed cardamom maintained desirable moisture content, high volatile oil retention and acceptable microbiological quality, meeting the prescribed export standards. The study concludes that implementation of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), Good Hygiene Practices (GHP) and systematic laboratory quality assurance significantly improves product quality, shelf life and international market acceptance.
