Quick Answer: Sushi nori is graded by color, texture, and flavor on a scale from Grade 1 (superior) to Grade 5. For sushi restaurants, Grade 1-2 from Ariake Bay is the benchmark. MOQ: 1,000-5,000 sheets (10-50 bundles). FOB price: ¥800-3,000 per 100-sheet bundle depending on grade.
Understanding Japanese Nori Grades
| Grade | Color | Texture | Use | Price/100 sheets |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grade 1 (Superior) | Deep black-green | Crisp, melts on tongue | High-end sushi | ¥2,500-3,000 |
| Grade 2 (Excellent) | Dark green | Firm, good snap | Sushi restaurants | ¥1,800-2,500 |
| Grade 3 (Good) | Medium green | Slightly chewy | Rolls, onigiri | ¥1,200-1,800 |
| Grade 4-5 | Light green/brown | Soft, fragile | Snacks, furikake | ¥800-1,200 |
Key Quality Indicators
- Glossy sheen — premium nori has visible sheen when held to light
- Snap test — should break cleanly, not tear or bend
- Umami intensity — taste raw; should have rich sea flavor without fishiness
- Uniformity — consistent thickness and color across the sheet
Import Requirements
- HS Code: 1212.21.00 (dried seaweed) — 0% duty in US and EU
- Shelf life: 12-24 months if vacuum-sealed with desiccant
- Storage: Cool, dry, dark — humidity destroys nori quality rapidly
- Certifications: HACCP facility + radiation test (some markets)
Premium Ariake Nori
Direct from Saga Prefecture cooperatives. Grade 1-3 available with full quality certificates.
Request Nori Samples →FAQ
What is the minimum order for wholesale nori?
Typically 1,000-5,000 sheets (10-50 bundles of 100). We can accommodate smaller trial orders of 500 sheets.
How is nori packaged for export?
Vacuum-sealed bundles of 100 sheets with desiccant packets, packed in corrugated master cartons.
Can I get custom sizes or flavored nori?
Yes. Many Japanese producers offer custom cut sizes and seasoning options for OEM/private label orders with 5,000+ sheet MOQ.
Karen Hashimoto
Curator & Export Compliance Director · WAGYU NINJA
Karen sources directly from Japanese producers and handles export compliance for B2B buyers in 50+ countries. Based in Fukuoka, Japan. @konnichiwa.karen