Introduction
Cashew (Anacardium occidentale), a native of Brazil, was introduced in India during the later half of the
16th Century for the purpose of afforestation and soil conservation. From its humble beginning as a crop
intended to check soil erosion, cashew has emerged as a major foreign exchange earner next only to tea
and coffee. Cashew Kernel which is highly delicious, has become a much sought after produce. Among
various nuts such as hazelnuts, almonds, etc., cashew nut enjoys an unenviable position and it is an
unavoidable snack in all important social functions specially in the western countries.
