From Field to Pack: Our Ceylon Grading & QC Process

Quality is built into every stage - from field selection to cold-chain dispatch. Our process is documented, auditable, and tuned to global buyer expectations.

Experienced field teams pick at first light when fruit temperature is lowest and texture is firmest.

• Visual inspection confirms colour, size, and shape for the intended grade.
• Hand harvesting into padded crates protects skin integrity.
• Immediate shade staging prevents sun stress before transport.

Within hours of arrival, produce moves through a first-stage triage to remove field defects and foreign matter.

• Reject bruised, split, or pest-affected chillies.
• Separate by size so batches cook and pack consistently.
• Use forced-air fans to remove field dust while avoiding moisture.

A controlled wash cycle stabilises shelf life without waterlogging delicate skins.

• Triple-wash in filtered water with constant turnover.
• Apply food-grade sanitizer calibrated for chilli cuticles.
• Air-dry on mesh racks to avoid standing moisture.

Quality controllers bench-test samples for SHU, visual profile, and aroma while line staff grade by hand.

• Assign batch codes tied to farm block, harvest date, and operator.
• Group chillies into premium export, value export, and processing lots.
• Document heat scores and moisture readings for buyer transparency.

Packaging protects product integrity during transit and meets regulatory requirements for the destination market.

• Use breathable food-safe liners and tamper-evident seals.
• Layer with absorbent pads to capture natural moisture release.
• Stamp cartons with batch IDs, SHU range, and storage guidance.

Chill rooms are pre-conditioned to 4-7 C before any packed lot enters storage.

• Digital temperature monitoring triggers alerts if thresholds shift.
• FIFO rotation ensures older batches are shipped first.
• Pre-cool transport crates before loading to avoid temperature shock.

Our documentation trail keeps customs and regulatory clearance smooth.

• Compile phytosanitary certificates, analysis reports, and packing lists.
• Prepare export declarations aligned with destination requirements.
• Share digital copies with buyers before dispatch for pre-clearance.

Before a consignment leaves, supervisors perform a full outbound audit.

• Inspect packaging integrity and weight accuracy.
• Confirm labels, documentation, and cold-chain logs match the order.
• Spot-test SHU and moisture to verify batch consistency.

• Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) certification across partner farms.
• Food Safety Management Systems with documented HACCP plans.
• Regular third-party audits to validate process discipline.

• Gather feedback from buyers and logistics partners after each shipment.
• Invest in staff training for sensory grading and documentation accuracy.
• Pilot new technology - from optical sorters to moisture scanners - to raise consistency.

• Traceability from farm block to final carton for every order.
• Export-grade sorting that protects texture, flavour, and heat profile.
• Responsive service that adapts batch specs to your market needs.