Houston Market Overview
Port of Houston handles most Gulf Coast cumin imports. Food processors in Texas buy EQ grade for seasoning blends and ready-meal production. Houston facilities prefer this grade because it costs 12-18% less than premium but maintains consistent flavor profile. Local demand runs 40-60 containers monthly during Q3-Q4 production peaks. Mexican food manufacturers across Dallas-Houston corridor use this spec for taco seasonings and spice rubs. Rail links to Midwest processing plants make Houston the logical entry point. Buyers lock in quarterly contracts to avoid spot market volatility.
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Moisture Content | Max 11% |
| Purity Level | 98% (Max 2% admixture) |
| Volatile Oil Content | 2.0-3.5% |
European Quality Specifications
This grade holds max 11% moisture content. Purity sits at 98% with 2% allowable foreign matter. Volatile oil content ranges 2.0-3.5%, which gives adequate aroma for industrial blending. Color stays greenish-brown without artificial treatment. Works for automated filling lines because admixture stays below 2%. Food processors use this for high-volume seasoning mixes where slight color variation doesn't affect end product. Seed size runs 4-6mm length. No fumigation residue above FDA limits.
Shipping to Houston
- 20ft containers hold 12-14 MT, 40ft containers fit 24-26 MT in 25kg PP bags
- Lead time: 18-22 days from Gujarat ports to Port of Houston via direct vessel
- Port of Houston Barbours Cut Terminal handles spice containers with 48-hour clearance
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Price and Value Position
EQ grade runs $200-280 per container less than premium grades. Saves processing costs because purity level needs minimal pre-cleaning. Good margin for buyers supplying chain restaurants and institutional kitchens. Payment terms stretch to 60-day LC for repeat orders. Container economics work when you're moving 5+ loads per quarter. Freight from Port of Houston to regional DCs costs $400-600 depending on fuel surcharges. This grade hits the price point for buyers who need volume over boutique specs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What moisture level does this EQ grade maintain?
This European Quality grade maintains maximum 11% moisture content. We test every lot before shipment using calibrated moisture meters. Lower moisture means longer shelf life and less clumping in automated dispensing equipment used by food processors.
Why choose European Quality cumin for industrial food processing?
EQ grade offers 98% purity at a lower price point than premium grades. It works well for high-volume seasoning blends where slight color variation doesn't matter. The 2.0-3.5% volatile oil content provides sufficient aroma for spice rubs and taco seasonings without paying for boutique specs.
What's the lead time for delivery to Houston?
Lead time runs 18-22 days from Gujarat ports to Port of Houston on direct vessels. Add 2-3 days for customs clearance at Barbours Cut Terminal. Total door-to-door time is typically 3-4 weeks from order confirmation to your warehouse.
Are you certified for exports?
Yes, Asia Agro Exports holds APEDA, FSSAI, and Spices Board certifications. We provide full documentation including phytosanitary certificates.
What are your payment terms?
We accept LC at sight, 30-60 day LC, and TT payment. Flexible terms available for regular buyers.