The uniqueness of Mundu chilli can be recognized based on its resilience in terms of its morphology and sensory properties. The name "Mundu" literally means "fat and round," a name that suits the sub-spherical shape of the Mundu chilli. Unlike other elongated shapes of chilies, Mundu chilli has a very thick pericarp, which helps in preserving the volatile oils during storage. The biological properties of the Mundu chilli are such that the crop is very tolerant of salinity and drought, thus grown in coastal agro-climatic conditions, giving the fruit its complex smoky flavor kinetics.
It provides structural integrity during mechanical processing and transit, thus reducing pod breakage.
It retains high moisture content during the initial stages of drying, thus retaining more volatile oils and imparting a rich, robust aroma during crushing.
It provides a balanced heat content of between 10,000 to 35,000 SHU, making it an ideal base for mass market culinary blends without any overbearing capsaicin.
It guarantees absolute genetic authenticity, premium positioning, and origin identification for discerning international markets.
| Parameter | Typical Specification |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Capsicum annuum |
| Fruit Morphology | Round to sub-spherical (cherry-like) pods. |
| Surface Texture | Dark, shiny, and noticeably thick pericarp (skin). |
| Internal Anatomy | High seed density; seed content accounts for approximately 50-60% of the pod. |
| Colour Transition | Progresses from vivid green to a deep, yellowish-red or blood-red upon maturity. |
| Stem Attachment | Available in three export formats: With Stem, Stemless, and Stem Cut. |
* Thin skin helps in quick evaporation of moisture during drying, and it also increases the yield of capsicum oleoresin.
These physical features are used by Agrocrops for rigorous quality control and grading during farmgate procurement in Southern India.
The product is tested for each export lot by High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) to confirm that the product meets specifications for extreme conditions of temperature and chemicals. Strict control of low moisture levels is maintained to ensure microbiological stability and prevent storage-borne fungi.
| Parameter | Range / Value | Test Method |
|---|---|---|
| Scoville Heat Units (SHU) | 10,000 – 35,000 SHU | HPLC / Spectrophotometric |
| Total Capsaicinoids | ~0.166% | HPLC-FLD |
| Colour value | 30 – 40 ASTA | Spectrophotometry |
| Moisture | Max 10% - 12% (Export Grade) | AOAC |
| Foreign Matter | ≤ 2% | Visual/Mechanical Sortex |
Low moisture levels are strictly maintained to ensure microbiological stability and prevent.
| Parameter | Limit |
|---|---|
| Total Plate Count | < 100,000 cfu/g |
| Yeast & Mold | < 1 × 103 cfu/g |
| E. coli | Absent in 25 g |
| Salmonella | Absent in 25 g |
| Aflatoxins | As per EU / USFDA limits |
The export quality of Mundu chillies must meet stringent international regulatory limits on pesticide and heavy metal residue.
| Parameter | Standard |
|---|---|
| Pesticide Residues | EU MRL / Codex / US FDA compliant |
| Heavy Metals | < 2.5 ppm |
| Sudan Dyes | Not Detected / Nil |
| Extraneous Matter | ≤ 1% |
| Aflatoxins | As per EU / US FDA limits |
The change from farm to export-grade spice is a technically precise process
to ensure the
variety's specific shape appeal and chemical potency.
This variety ensures consistent SHU value delivery, which helps to calibrate the heat level in food preparations.
EXPORT DESTINATIONS
ANNUAL SUPPLY CAPACITY
Storage conditions will also help in preserving the pungency and preventing loss of quality.
Preferably below 15°C
Keep away from heat sources. Refrigerated or cool-room storage preferred for long-term quality retention.
Controlled dry conditions
Humidity above 65% accelerates mould growth and capsaicinoid degradation. Use desiccant packs in humid climates.
UV-protected environment
Avoid direct sunlight exposure. Prolonged UV exposure degrades ASTA colour value and pungency levels.
Oxygen barrier packaging
Use moisture-proof, oxygen barrier packaging to prevent capsaicinoid degradation due to oxygen and moisture ingress.
When stored under recommended conditions (below 25°C, below 65% RH, sealed moisture-proof packaging).
All packaging options meet food-grade compliance standards and are designed to preserve product integrity during long-haul international transit.
Mundu (S9) is categorized as moderate heat (10,000–35,000 SHU). It is slightly hotter than standard Byadgi (8,000–15,000 SHU) but significantly milder than the intense heat of Teja S17 (75,000–110,000 SHU).
The GI tag legally certifies that the chilli is authentically grown in the Ramanathapuram district of India. This guarantees that buyers receive the genuine seed variety cultivated in the specific highly saline, drought-prone soils that give the Mundu chilli its signature flavor profile.
Yes. Every batch is tested in NABL-accredited labs to ensure compliance with the Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) of the importing country.
Mundu contains specific carotenoids that are sensitive to ambient heat. Storing at 5°C–12°C preserves the ASTA color value and volatile oils for up to two years, preventing early oxidation.