Canada is the world's largest producer and exporter of green lentils. Saskatchewan and Alberta account for over 95% of production. Key varieties include Laird (large green, 6.0–7.0 mm), Richlea (medium green) and Eston (small green). Green lentils hold their shape after cooking, making them preferred for whole dal preparations, soups and salads.
Origin & Harvest
Sourced direct from grower-shippers in Saskatchewan's brown soil zone and southern Alberta. Planted mid-May, harvested late August through mid-September. New-crop availability begins October; carry-stock supply runs through August of the following year. Each shipment carries crop year and terminal of origin.
Varieties Supplied
- Laird Large Green — 6.0–7.0 mm, the export-grade benchmark
- Richlea Medium Green — 4.5–5.5 mm, cost-efficient food service grade
- Eston Small Green — 4.0–4.5 mm, ready-meal and salad applications
Specifications
| Parameter | #1 | #2 | CGC #1 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Foreign Matter % | 0.05 | 0.10 | 0.20 |
| Peeled / Split / Broken % | 1.00 | 2.00 | 2.00 |
| Other Damage % | 0.50 | 1.00 | 1.00 |
| Total Damage % | 1.00 | 2.50 | 2.00 |
| Stain % | 0.50 | 1.50 | 1.00 |
| Contrasting Color % | 0.10 | 0.20 | 0.20 |
| Moisture | Max 14% | Max 14% | — |
Handling & Packaging
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Shelf Life | 24 months from date of packaging |
| Storage | Ambient — cool & dry |
| Country of Origin | Canada |
| Packaging | 25 kg · 50 kg · 1 MT · Bulk |
Shipping & Trade Terms
FOB Vancouver, CPT Vancouver, and CIF major ports including Nhava Sheva, Mundra, Chennai, Chittagong, Colombo and Jebel Ali. Standard FCL 24–26 MT bagged or 28 MT bulk. Payment terms: irrevocable LC at sight, CAD or TT against shipping documents — subject to buyer credentials.
Common End-Uses
Whole green dal, Mediterranean and Middle Eastern soup and stew applications, European ready-meals, North American retail brands, salad and side-dish manufacturing, and ingredient supply to the plant-protein industry.
Certifications
All shipments include CGC official weight and grade certificates, CFIA phytosanitary certificates, and certificate of origin. SGS or Intertek pre-shipment inspection certificate available on request.
Frequently Asked Questions
What varieties of Canadian green lentils do you supply?＋
We supply Laird (large green, 6.0–7.0 mm), Richlea (medium green, 4.5–5.5 mm), and Eston (small green, 4.0–4.5 mm). Laird is the most exported variety due to its uniform size and bright green colour.
What is the difference between Laird, Richlea and Eston green lentils?＋
Laird is the largest with the boldest seed and longest shelf appeal — preferred by Mediterranean and Indian retail markets. Richlea is medium-sized and most cost-efficient for food service. Eston is small, French-style, suited for salads and ready-meal manufacturers.
What is the minimum order quantity?＋
One full container load (FCL) — approximately 24–26 MT bagged, or up to 28 MT in bulk container liners. Partial-container indent orders are not accepted.
Which ports do you ship green lentils to?＋
Nhava Sheva, Mundra, Chennai, Chittagong, Colombo, Jebel Ali, and direct FOB / CPT Vancouver for buyers arranging their own carriage.
Are organic Canadian green lentils available?＋
Certified organic Laird green lentils are available on indent, subject to grower commitment. Minimum 2 FCL with 60-day lead time.
What is the shelf life and storage requirement?＋
24 months from date of packaging when stored below 14% moisture in a cool, dry, well-ventilated warehouse, protected from direct sunlight and rodents.
What is the typical transit time to South Asia?＋
28–35 days from Vancouver to Nhava Sheva, plus 7–10 days inland rail from Saskatchewan elevators to West Coast terminals.