Buying Pulses and Dal in Bulk: Toor, Moong, Chana, Urad and Masoor
A guide for importers and wholesalers buying pulses and dal — the main types, whole vs split, quality specs, packing, origins and what affects price.
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Pulses are a staple across South Asia, the Middle East and diaspora markets in Europe. For importers, the key is knowing the types, the specs and the market.
Trade guidance only. Specifications, limits and regulations change, so confirm the current requirements and agree the exact specification in your contract.
The main dal types
| Dal | Source | Common forms |
|---|---|---|
| Toor (arhar) | Pigeon pea | Split, plain or oily |
| Moong | Green gram | Whole green, split, washed yellow |
| Chana | Bengal gram / chickpea | Split dal, whole desi and kabuli chickpeas |
| Urad | Black gram | Whole, split, washed (gota) |
| Masoor | Red lentil | Whole, split (football, nipper) |
Quality specs
- Moisture
- Foreign matter and admixture
- Broken and damaged grains
- Size and uniformity (and count per 100 g for chickpeas)
- Colour and polish
- Insect damage
- Pesticide residues for EU buyers
What moves prices
Harvest size, monsoon performance, government stock policies, and import and export rules in major producing and consuming countries. India, for example, has adjusted pulse export and import policies at different times, so check current rules for your products.
Packing
25 kg and 50 kg PP or jute bags for wholesale, and smaller retail packs on request. Sortexed and polished options are available for premium markets.
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Source spices, coffee and pulses from Pyalm
We trade from Calicut (Kozhikode), India on the Malabar spice coast and Dubai, UAE, exporting to buyers across Europe and worldwide. Wholesale, private label and dropshipping. See products & grades, export & shipping and quality.
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