Yes. Mixed containers are common from Mahuva, where many plants make both onion and garlic in several forms. A single container might carry onion flakes, kibbled onion, onion powder and garlic granules together.
Mixing lets smaller buyers fill a container and test several products at once. It also adds work: each line needs its own lot number, tests, labels and a place in the documents.
Why buyers mix
- To fill a container when no single product reaches a full load.
- To balance light forms, such as flakes, with dense forms, such as powder, and use both space and weight.
- To trial a new product without committing to a full container of it.
- To keep stock of several forms without large stock of any one.
What to agree with the supplier
- Minimum quantity per item: many plants set one, so ask before you plan the mix.
- Who makes each item: if the supplier buys some forms from other plants, ask which and check them too.
- Separate lot numbers and certificates of analysis for each product and lot.
- Clear carton marking, so each product is easy to identify at unloading.
- A loading plan, with heavier cartons at the bottom and each product kept together.
- Sampling and testing for every item, not just the main one.
Does garlic affect the onion?
Both products are strongly aromatic, but in sealed liners inside cartons they do not normally taint each other in transit. The bigger risk is at the plant. If onion and garlic are milled on the same line, carry-over can occur. Ask how the plant cleans lines between products and whether you need a declaration.
If your customer needs a product free from garlic, for example for a recipe or labelling reason, discuss this before you mix. A line clean and a test may be needed.
Documents for a mixed container
Dehydrated onion and dehydrated garlic usually fall under different customs codes within the dried vegetables heading. The invoice, packing list and bill of lading should show each product separately with its quantity and code. Ask your broker to confirm the codes for your country.
If a certificate of origin, health certificate or phytosanitary certificate is needed, check that it covers every product. Our article on phytosanitary certificates for dried vegetables explains when one is required. Garlic exporters may also need Spices Board registration, as covered in our guide to CRES.
Mixing other vegetables
Some plants can add carrot, cabbage or other dried vegetables to an onion and garlic container. The same rules apply: a minimum per item, separate lots, separate tests and a clear loading plan.
Where we come in
We plan the mix with you, confirm where each item is made, take sealed samples of every line for NABL-accredited lab tests, and supervise loading against the plan. To build a mixed container, start with a free sourcing review.