30 March 2026

The Rise of Indian Groundnuts in Global Snack Manufacturing

Blog/The Rise of Indian Groundnuts in Global Snack Manufacturing

Indian groundnuts are becoming the preferred choice for snack manufacturers worldwide. Here's what's driving the trend.

The Rise of Indian Groundnuts in Global Snack Manufacturing

India's Groundnut Export Boom

India is the second-largest groundnut producer globally, with Gujarat and Rajasthan leading production. In recent years, Indian groundnuts have gained significant traction in global snack manufacturing — from peanut butter to roasted snacks to confectionery.

Why Snack Manufacturers Prefer Indian Groundnuts

Competitive Pricing

Compared to US and Argentine groundnuts, Indian varieties offer 20-30% cost savings without compromising on taste or oil content. For large-scale snack manufacturers, this margin advantage is significant.

Variety Range

India offers multiple varieties suited for different applications:

  • Bold (Java): 40/50, 50/60 count — ideal for roasted snacks and confectionery
  • TJ (Java): Smaller kernels, perfect for peanut butter and oil extraction
  • Red Skin: High in antioxidants, growing demand in health food segment
  • Blanched: Skin-removed, ready for direct use in manufacturing

Year-Round Availability

With two crop seasons (Kharif and Rabi), Indian groundnuts are available throughout the year. This ensures uninterrupted supply for manufacturers with continuous production lines.

Quality Standards for Snack-Grade Groundnuts

Snack manufacturers have strict requirements: aflatoxin below 4 ppb (EU standard), moisture under 7%, uniform kernel size, and zero foreign matter. Indian exporters meeting these standards are APEDA registered and provide SGS or equivalent inspection certificates.

Sesame Seeds: The Complementary Export

Alongside groundnuts, Indian sesame seeds (white and black varieties) are in growing demand for bakery, tahini, and health food manufacturing. Rajasthan and Gujarat produce the bulk of India's sesame crop.

HS Proteins supplies premium groundnuts and sesame seeds from Gujarat, processed in our Indore facility with full quality control. Contact us for grades, pricing, and sample requests.