Overview
The primary specification decision is peeled versus unpeeled. Double-peeled beans command a significant processing premium because the second peeling is labour-intensive, and the two products serve different dishes.
Grades, cuts, and formats
These are the formats commonly traded from Egypt. They serve different applications rather than representing quality tiers, so the format should follow the finished product, not the price.
Peeled (double-peeled)
Both the pod and the individual bean skin removed. Tender, pale green, ready to use. Labour-intensive to produce, which is reflected in availability and cost.
Unpeeled with skin
Bean skin retained. Firmer texture, holds shape better in long cooking, and the traditional format for several regional dishes.
Caliber 12-15mm
Smallest band, most tender.
Caliber 15-18mm
Mid band, most widely traded.
Caliber 18-22mm
Largest band, firmer, higher yield.
Technical specifications
| Sizing Options | Caliber: 12-15mm, 15-18mm, 18-22mm. |
|---|---|
| Form | Peeled (double-peeled) or Unpeeled with skin |
| Blanching Index | Peroxidase negative |
| Storage Temperature | -18°C or colder |
| Microbiology Limits | E. Coli < 10 cfu/g, Salmonella: Absent/25g |
| Packing Configurations | 1×10kg carton bulk, 20×400g retail bags |
| Packing options | 1×10kg bulk; 20×400g retail |
| Harvest season | Jan–May (peak Feb, Mar, Apr) |
| Container fit (40ft HC reefer) | 10kg cartons, 100 cartons per pallet, 20 pallets per container |
Sourcing notes for buyers
- Peeled and unpeeled are effectively different products with different processing cost bases. Do not treat them as a minor specification variation.
- Blanching peroxidase negative.
- Harvest runs January through May with peak February to April — a short window.
- Microbiological limits: E. coli under 10 cfu/g, Salmonella absent in 25g.
- Currently offered into EU and GCC markets.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between peeled and unpeeled IQF broad beans?
Peeled beans are double-peeled, with both the pod and the individual bean skin removed, giving a tender ready-to-use product. Unpeeled beans retain the skin, hold their shape better in long cooking, and are traditional in several regional dishes. Double peeling is labour-intensive, so the two carry different cost bases.
When is the Egyptian broad bean season?
January through May, with peak volume from February through April.
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