Quick answer: A specification sheet describes exactly what a coconut sugar product should be. It usually includes the product name and description, physical parameters (colour, granule size, appearance), chemical parameters (moisture, sucrose), microbiological limits, foreign matter limits, packaging, storage, shelf life and statements on allergens or GMOs. Buyers use it to approve suppliers and check deliveries.
Key takeaways – A specification defines what the product must be. – It covers physical, chemical and microbiological parameters. – Packaging, storage and shelf life are also included. – Buyers and suppliers should agree and sign it.
What sections does a specification include?
| Section | Typical content |
|---|---|
| Product description | Name, grade, origin, ingredient |
| Physical | Colour, appearance, granule size, foreign matter |
| Chemical | Moisture, sucrose, other parameters |
| Microbiological | TPC, yeast and mould, coliforms, E. coli, Salmonella |
| Sensory | Taste and smell description |
| Packaging | Type, weight per bag, labelling |
| Storage and shelf life | Conditions and duration |
| Statements | Allergens, GMO, vegan, others |
How are physical parameters described?
Colour may be described in words, with a reference sample or with instrument values. Granule size is often given as mesh size, for example mesh 14 (about 1.41 mm) or mesh 50 (about 0.30 mm), sometimes with a percentage that must pass through a sieve.
Which chemical parameters are common?
Moisture is the most important, as it affects caking and shelf life. Sucrose content is often listed; coconut sugar typically contains about 70-79% sucrose. Some buyers ask for other tests depending on their market.
Which microbiological limits are included?
Common parameters include total plate count, yeast and mould, coliforms, E. coli and Salmonella (often “absent in 25 g”). Limits are agreed between buyer and supplier.
Why are statements included?
Buyers need to know about allergens, GMO status, suitability for vegans and other topics for their own labelling and compliance. Statements in the specification, or as separate documents, provide this information.
How should a specification be agreed?
- The supplier sends its standard specification.
- The buyer compares it with their needs.
- Differences are discussed and resolved.
- Both sides sign the final version.
- The specification is reviewed regularly or when changes occur.
How is the specification used?
It is the basis for supplier approval, incoming inspections, certificates of analysis and complaint handling. If a delivery does not meet the specification, the buyer can raise a non-conformance.
Common mistakes
- Unrealistic limits copied from other products.
- Missing test methods.
- Outdated versions in use.
- No agreement on how colour is judged.
Where does IMC fit?
PT Integral Mulia Cipta (IMC Group) has produced coconut sugar in Central Java since 2012 and exports to customers abroad, including the USA. IMC offers mesh 14 and mesh 50 granules. Buyers can ask the IMC team for product specifications.
FAQ
What is a specification sheet? A document describing exactly what a product must be.
What is the most important parameter? Moisture is often key for coconut sugar.
Should both sides sign it? Yes, to confirm agreement.
How often is it reviewed? Regularly, and whenever something changes.
Questions about coconut sugar for your products? PT Integral Mulia Cipta (IMC Group), a Central Java producer since 2012, is happy to help. Email info@organic-coconut-sugar.com or WhatsApp +62 811 880 62273.
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