2.3. Bean Size

With new cocoa areas being opened up, there is increasing variation in bean size from a greater diversity of planting materials. It is becoming more important that beans are sold not only on the basis of the agreed quality standards but also on the basis of an agreed bean size and distribution criterion so that manufacturers know what they are buying and the seller’s reputation is protected.

A number of origins and markets have their own particular criteria, for example:
 

Nigeria
Nigeria defines cocoa as a main crop if 300 beans weigh 11ozs or above (104 beans/100g) and light crop if it does not meet this standard.
London
The futures markets based in London provides for an allowance if the bean count is greater than 100 beans/100g, with beans in excess of 120 beans/100g not being tenderable.