India's Three Major Export Grades
Indian red chilli exports are dominated by three distinct grades, each with a different flavour and heat profile targeted at different global markets.
| Grade | Origin | ASTA Colour | Scoville (SHU) | Key Market |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Teja S17 | Andhra Pradesh | 90–120 | 80,000–100,000 | Gulf, South-East Asia |
| Guntur Sannam | Andhra Pradesh | 80–100 | 30,000–50,000 | USA, Europe, East Africa |
| Bydagi (Kaddi) | Karnataka | 180–220 | 15,000–25,000 | UK, Japan, foodservice |
| Wonder Hot (334) | Rajasthan/Gujarat | 60–80 | 50,000–80,000 | Sri Lanka, Bangladesh |
Understanding ASTA Colour Units
ASTA (American Spice Trade Association) colour units measure extractable red pigment. Higher ASTA means deeper colour — critical for food manufacturing customers who need consistent colour in their final product. Bydagi is prized for its exceptional colour; Teja for its extreme heat.
Sudan Dye Testing — Non-Negotiable
Sudan I–IV dyes are illegal additives used by unscrupulous traders to boost ASTA readings. The EU, UK, and USA conduct mandatory Sudan dye testing on all red chilli consignments. A positive result means immediate destruction of the shipment and blacklisting of the exporter.
2026 FOB Price Benchmarks
| Grade | Form | FOB JNPT (USD/MT) |
|---|---|---|
| Teja S17 Whole | Whole, 25kg PP bags | $1,850–$2,100 |
| Guntur Sannam Whole | Whole, 25kg PP bags | $1,600–$1,900 |
| Bydagi Whole | Whole, 25kg PP bags | $2,100–$2,400 |
| Chilli Powder (S17) | 25kg laminated bags | $2,200–$2,500 |
Aflatoxin & Pesticide MRL Compliance
The EU sets the strictest limits: aflatoxin B1 must be below 5 ppb, total aflatoxins below 10 ppb. Pesticide MRLs for chilli follow EU Regulation (EC) No 396/2005 — check the EFSA database for specific compounds. For GCC markets, GSO 2207 applies with similar thresholds.
Packing Standards for Export
Whole dry red chilli is typically packed in 25 kg woven polypropylene bags with inner polyethylene liner. Moisture content must not exceed 12% to prevent mould during transit. For 20-foot containers, you can load approximately 14–16 MT of whole chilli.
Quick Reference: Documents Required
- Spice Board of India Certificate of Quality (mandatory)
- Phytosanitary Certificate (NPPO India)
- SGS/Intertek Lab Test — Sudan dyes, aflatoxin, pesticides
- Certificate of Origin (Chamber of Commerce)
- FSSAI compliance declaration