How to specify black pepper for bulk purchase

Start with the form

Whole, cracked or ground? Whole black pepper is the most commonly traded form. For cracked or ground pepper, also state the particle size (mesh) you need.

Physical parameters

• Grade or berry size. Either a grade name or a minimum sieve size.
• Bulk density. Grams per litre. Denser pepper usually means well-filled berries.
• Moisture. A maximum percentage. Over-moist pepper risks mould in transit.
• Light berries. Hollow or immature berries, as a maximum percentage.
• Extraneous matter. Stems, stones and dust, as a maximum percentage.

Flavour and chemical parameters

Where flavour strength matters, buyers specify piperine content or volatile oil. Some markets also set limits for pesticide residues and mycotoxins, which depend on the destination's regulations.

Microbiology and treatment

Food-industry buyers often set limits for microorganisms such as *Salmonella*. If your market requires it, say whether the pepper should be steam-treated before shipment.

Name the standard

State which standard or test methods apply — your company's own specification, or a published standard used in your market. Without that, two laboratories can test the same lot and report different numbers.

Sampling

Agree how samples are drawn and who tests them: pre-shipment samples, an independent inspection, or a certificate of analysis.

Next step

See our black pepper profile and understanding spice moisture and quality parameters, then send an export enquiry with your specification.