How to Identify Grade A White Garlic: Key Quality Indicators for International Buyers

How to Identify Grade-A White Garlic: A Practical Guide for International Buyers

For procurement managers sourcing garlic from China or other global suppliers, understanding quality standards isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. Misjudging garlic grade can lead to inconsistent product performance, customer complaints, and lost business. This guide breaks down the five core criteria used to identify Grade-A white garlic, based on real-world inspection methods trusted by exporters and importers alike.

1. Visual Integrity: No Cracks, No Blemishes

Grade-A garlic should have intact skin with no visible cracks, bruises, or soft spots. According to a 2023 survey by the China National Chamber of Commerce, over 70% of international buyers reported rejecting shipments due to cosmetic damage—often overlooked in initial inspections. Always check multiple bulbs per batch for consistency.

2. Uniform Size & Shape (Key for Processing)

Consistent size ensures even cooking and packaging efficiency. The ideal Grade-A bulb measures between 4–5 cm in diameter (approximately 1.6–2 inches). Variance beyond ±0.5 cm increases labor costs during sorting—a major concern for food processors and retailers. Our facility maintains a 95% uniformity rate across all batches.

3. Clean Skin & Bright Surface

A shiny, dry outer layer indicates proper curing and storage conditions. Dull or sticky skins often signal moisture retention or poor handling. In our lab tests, Grade-A garlic showed an average gloss index of 8.4/10 using standardized light reflection tools—compared to 5.2/10 for lower-grade options.

Why Chinese-Grown Garlic Stands Out

While many countries produce garlic, Chinese varieties—especially from Shandong Province—are known for their high sulfur content, strong flavor, and excellent storage longevity. Compared to U.S.-grown garlic, which averages 6 months shelf life, our Grade-A bulbs last up to 9 months under optimal conditions—a key advantage for long-haul shipping and seasonal demand planning.

The Human Touch: Trust Through Transparency

We don’t just sell garlic—we build trust. Every shipment includes third-party lab reports, traceability codes, and photos from the field. With over 8 years of exporting experience, we’ve helped more than 120 clients reduce quality-related returns by 40%. That’s not just data—it’s peace of mind.