Walnut is one of the most valued nuts in the global market due to its high nutritional content and wide applications in the food, health, and cosmetic industries. With its hard shell and rich kernel, walnut is considered a superfood, making it an important export commodity for international markets.
What Walnut Is
Walnut is an edible seed of the genus Juglans, enclosed in a hard shell that must be cracked to reach the edible kernel inside. The most common varieties are English/Persian walnut (Juglans regia) and Black walnut (Juglans nigra). Walnuts are known for their distinct taste, crunchy texture, and high levels of omega-3 fatty acids.
Global Demand
Walnut is in high demand across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and North America. It is consumed as a snack, used in bakery products, confectioneries, health foods, and extracted into walnut oil for culinary and cosmetic applications.
Export Specifications
When exporting walnuts, international buyers demand quality, consistency, and adherence to global trade standards. Below are the typical export specifications:
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Product: Walnut (In-shell / Shelled)
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Origin: Nigeria
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Variety: English/Persian Walnut (Juglans regia)
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Form: Whole in-shell, kernels (halves, quarters, or broken)
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Moisture Content: ≤ 8%
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Purity: 98% minimum
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Defective Nuts: ≤ 2%
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Admixture: ≤ 1%
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Kernel Yield: 40–50% depending on variety
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Color: Light, amber, or dark (based on buyer’s specification)
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Shelf Life: 12–18 months (if properly stored)
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Packaging:
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In-shell: 25–50 kg jute bags or polypropylene bags
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Shelled kernels: 10–25 kg vacuum-sealed bags or cartons with inner liners
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Storage Conditions: Cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
Uses of Walnut
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Food Industry: Baked goods, confectionery, snack mixes, salads, and dairy alternatives.
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Oil Extraction: Walnut oil used in cooking, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.
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Nutraceuticals: Omega-3 supplements and heart-healthy formulations.
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Cosmetics: Ingredient in lotions, creams, and exfoliants.
Export Opportunities
Nigeria has favorable conditions for walnut production and export. With increasing global awareness of healthy living, demand for walnuts continues to grow. Exporters can target Europe (UK, Germany, Netherlands, France), Middle East (UAE, Saudi Arabia), Asia (India, China), and the USA for high-value markets.
