Technical Information
Colours
California Walnuts are available in a range of different sizes and colours to fit a variety of uses. Check with your walnut distributor to order a specific or preferred format.
California Walnuts may be colour sorted to meet specific product needs. The walnut spectrum chart (for comparison only) illustrates the wide range of colour classifications available. In this section, we further list down application ideas for the different walnut colour variations.
California Walnuts are sold according to size and colour, ranging from light to amber, with the lighter walnuts being the most popular for aesthetic reasons. But the difference is more than just colour. With each colour variation also comes a range of flavour components. Knowing the difference in these flavour variations can make a difference in a dish or product formulation.
Extra Light
No more than 15% shall be darker than extra light of which only 2% (included in the 15%) may be darker than light.
Light
No more than 15% shall be darker than light of which only 2% (included in the 15%) may be darker than light amber.
Light Amber
No more than 15% shall be darker than light amber of which only 2% (included in the 15%) may be darker than amber.
Amber
No more than 10% shall be darker than amber.
List of application ideas depending upon the colour of the California Walnut kernel.
Application ideas for light walnuts
- Toasted in baked good and breads
- Puréed for dressings, curries and sauces
- Chopped for butter crusts
- Blended for walnut milk
- Sprinkled on salads and raitas
Application ideas for light amber walnuts
- Ground/ chopped as a component of an authentic-looking meat replacement
- Toasted and puréed for soups
- Compliment to rich chocolate desserts & halwas
- Puréed for spreads and sauces
- Finely chopped for crusting or frying
USDA Standard Sizes for Walnut Kernels
Walnuts are a simple, yet powerful food to fuel wellness and fitness goals. Walnut kernels are available in different sizes. The specifications are based on the “USDA Standards for Grades of Shelled Walnuts”