Insights ·
Kerala black pepper: origin and how it is traded
Kerala black pepper is Piper nigrum grown in the hill districts of the Western Ghats. It is traded under names such as Malabar and Tellicherry, and buyers compare lots on berry size, bulk density, moisture and cleanliness.
Where it grows
Black pepper is a perennial vine. In Kerala it climbs shade and support trees on smallholdings and plantations across the hill districts of the Western Ghats. The monsoon climate — heavy rain followed by a dry season — suits the crop.
From berry to black pepper
Spikes of green berries are harvested and the berries separated. They are then dried, traditionally in the sun, until the outer skin darkens and wrinkles. Drying well matters: poorly dried pepper is prone to mould in transit.
Trade names
The Malabar Coast has exported pepper for centuries, and its place names survive in the trade. Malabar and Tellicherry (Thalassery, in Kannur district) are used today to describe grades, largely by berry size. The larger, bolder berries are usually sold under Tellicherry grades.
What buyers measure
- Berry size, by sieve
- Bulk density, in grams per litre
- Moisture content
- Light berries and extraneous matter
- Piperine or volatile oil, where flavour strength matters
Different markets emphasise different parameters, so agree a written specification before the order.
Talk to us
See our black pepper profile or send an enquiry with your specification.