Guide to Pickle Grades & Sizes

Ever stood in the grocery aisle, staring at jars of pickled gherkins, and wondered why some are tiny, some are large, and the prices vary so much? You're not alone. Those labels aren't just for show—they're a code that tells you the size, grade, and intended use of the pickle inside. Let's crack that code together.

The Universal Rule: Size & Grade Determine Price

In the global market, there's a simple, direct relationship: smaller, more uniform gherkins command a higher grade and price. Why? Producing perfect, tiny gherkins requires premium, young cucumbers and more meticulous sorting and processing. Larger gherkins are more economical to produce.

Here’s your definitive guide to international gherkin classifications, from the most premium to the economical utility grade.

1. Cornichons / Tiny Midget Gherkins (Grade A Fancy)

• The Premium Choice: These are the smallest, most elite gherkins, often called by their French name, Cornichons.
• Size: Typically Size 4 or smaller (under 1.5 inches / 4 cm). They are perfectly uniform.
• Characteristics: Exceptionally crisp and firm, with thin skin, dense flesh, and a potent, balanced tang. They absorb brining flavors intensely and uniformly.
• Best For: Fine dining, charcuterie boards, gourmet garnishes, and luxury hospitality. They are the jewel of any antipasto or cheese platter.

2. Small Gherkins (Grade A Fancy / Choice)

• The Classic All-Rounder: This is the standard, high-quality pickle found in households worldwide.
• Size: Usually Size 3 (approx. 1.5 to 3 inches / 4-7.5 cm). Uniform and well-formed.
• Characteristics: Excellent crunch, vibrant color, and a classic dill or sour flavor. The ideal balance of texture and taste.
• Best For: Daily consumption, sandwiches, burgers, and as a side with casual meals. Sold in retail jars for home use.

3. Large Gherkins / Premium Gherkins (Grade B Choice)

• The Meaty, Juicy Option: These gherkins are valued for their substantial bite and juiciness.
• Size: Classified as Size 2 or Size 1 (often 3 inches / 7.5 cm and above). They may have more natural size variation.
• Characteristics: Less dense and more hydrated than smaller gherkins, resulting in a milder, juicier crunch. Perfect for those who love a hearty pickle.
• Best For: Served whole as a deli-side, chopped into salads, or for bulk food service where a meaty texture is preferred.

4. Standard / Mixed-Size Gherkins (Grade B Standard)

• The Economical Workhorse: A cost-effective mix that doesn't sacrifice core flavor.
• Size: A combination of Sizes 2 and 3. They are not sorted for uniformity.
• Characteristics: Offers the authentic gherkin taste at a better price point. Some may be slightly softer or less perfect in shape, but flavor remains key.
• Best For: Food service, catering, pickling at home, and processing where appearance is secondary to taste and cost.

5. Utility Gherkins / Chopped Pickles (Grade C Utility)

• For Processing & Industrial Use: This grade is focused on flavor for further manufacturing.
• Size: Not size-sorted. Includes pieces, irregular cuts, and large gherkins.
• Characteristics: The most economical grade. Used where the gherkin will be diced, pureed, or processed into sauces, relishes, tartar sauce, or chopped salads.
• Best For: Industrial food production, sauce manufacturers, and large-scale catering operations.

Packaging: Jars vs. Tins – It's About Volume, Not Quality

A key industry insight: The grade (A, B, C) defines quality, not the packaging.

• Glass Jars: Standard for retail consumer sales. All grades, from Cornichons to Standard, can be found in jars.
• Tins (Cans) & Pails: Designed for wholesale, food service, and industrial buyers. A restaurant might buy Grade A Small Gherkins in a 5-gallon pail, just as a factory might order Grade C Utility Gherkins in a steel drum.

Quick Selection Guide:

• For a Gourmet Experience: Choose Cornichons (Tiny Midget Gherkins, Grade A).
• For Everyday Quality: Choose Small Gherkins (Grade A/B).
• For a Juicy, Substantial Bite: Choose Large Gherkins (Grade B).
• For Cost-Effective Flavor in Food Business: Choose Standard/Mixed Gherkins (Grade B).
• For Manufacturing & Processing: Choose Utility Gherkins (Grade C).

For Food Industry Professionals & Buyers

If you are a restaurant chain, food manufacturer, wholesaler, or retailer looking for a reliable partner to supply consistent, high-quality gherkins across all commercial grades...

Or if you are interested in private label production or co-packing...

Tak Ava Company is a seasoned producer and global supplier with expertise in all international gherkin grades—from Grade A Fancy Cornichons to Grade C Utility for processing.

We provide:

• B2B Supply: Consistent bulk supply in your required packaging (jars, tins, pails).
• Private Label & Co-packing: Develop your own brand with our production expertise.
• Quality Assurance: Guaranteed specifications for size, grade, and food safety standards.

Contact our sales team at Tak Ava for technical specifications, samples, and competitive bulk pricing. Let us provide the perfect pickle for your business needs.