Nigella Seed

Treedha's Nigella Seed (Kalonji / Mangrail) originates from the prime seed-spice cultivation regions of West Bengal and Madhya Pradesh, India. These areas are renowned for their fertile soils and favourable climates, which contribute to the distinct flavour profile and bold appearance of the seeds. The specific origin ensures a consistent product quality that discerning global buyers expect.

Sourcing directly from these established belts allows for full traceability and control over the cultivation process. This direct engagement ensures that each batch of Nigella Seed reflects the true characteristics of its Indian provenance, a critical factor for importers seeking authentic, high-quality bulk ingredients. Buyers benefit from a supply chain that prioritises both consistency and origin integrity.

Treedha specialises in Sortex-cleaned Nigella Seed, offering a premium export grade with 99% purity. This meticulous cleaning process effectively removes foreign matter, ensuring a uniform, bold black product, typically ranging from 1mm to 3mm in size.

Key specifications for our Nigella Seed include a maximum moisture content of 8%, crucial for extended shelf life and preventing mold. Volatile oil content is typically ≥1.5%, contributing to the characteristic pungent aroma. For nutraceutical applications, the active compound Thymoquinone is a significant quality metric, with levels generally ≥0.30% in the seeds. We provide batch-specific data to confirm these parameters, alongside limits for foreign matter (0.5% max), total ash (5% max), and acid insoluble ash (1.5% max).

Adherence to international food safety regulations is paramount for Nigella Seed exports. Treedha ensures that our Nigella Seed is Ethylene Oxide (ETO)-free, a critical requirement as ETO is strictly regulated in the EU and US for many food products. Our steam-sterilisation process guarantees microbiological safety without chemical treatment.

All batches are lab-tested to meet stringent EU and US import limits for contaminants. This includes Aflatoxins, with limits typically ≤ 2 / 4 µg/kg for nutraceutical-grade products in the EU and 20 ppb in the US. Pesticide Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) are strictly observed, with comprehensive pesticide panel results available. We confirm the absence of Salmonella, E. coli, and Staphylococcus, and verify that Sudan I, II, III, and IV dyes are 'not detected'. Heavy metal levels (lead, arsenic, cadmium) are also routinely monitored to comply with global standards, including California's Proposition 65. Essential documentation such as Certificates of Analysis (COA), Phytosanitary Certificates, and Certificates of Origin accompany every shipment, ensuring full transparency and compliance for our buyers.

Global demand for Nigella Seed (Black Seed) is robust and expanding, driven by its dual appeal in both culinary and health & wellness sectors. Germany is a primary importer, accounting for a significant share, followed by the United States. Europe and North America collectively represent major consumption centres, particularly for black seed oil in nutraceuticals and dietary supplements.

The increasing global interest in natural, plant-based health solutions underpins demand for Nigella Seed, recognised for its potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This fuels its use in nutraceuticals, supplements, and even cosmetic formulations. Additionally, its role as a culinary spice in ethnic cuisines, bakery products, and flavourings maintains steady demand across markets including Asia-Pacific, Africa, the Middle East, Russia, and Australia.

The primary Harmonized System (HS) code for Nigella Seed (Nigella sativa / Kalonji) in international trade, particularly for export from India, is 09093119. It is essential for buyers to specify "Nigella sativa" in documentation to prevent confusion with other botanical species. Treedha supports a range of common incoterms, including FOB and CIF, to facilitate smooth international transactions.

Our Nigella Seed is offered in bulk formats, adaptable to various importer requirements. While precise MOQs are discussed directly with buyers, our approach is designed to cater to wholesale and private-label orders, ranging from 10kg to 50kg bags. The cleaned, sun-dried, and machine-sorted whole seeds have a shelf life of 2-3 years when stored appropriately in cool, dry, and airtight conditions.