[Federal Register Volume 64, Number 116 (Thursday, June 17, 1999)]
[Notices]
[Pages 32666-32703]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 99-15290]
[[Page 32665]]
_______________________________________________________________________
Part III
Department of Agriculture
_______________________________________________________________________
Agricultural Marketing Service
_______________________________________________________________________
Grading Standards; Oranges (California and Arizona); Grapefruit
(California and Arizona); Tangerines; and Lemons; Notice
Federal Register / Vol. 64, No. 116 / Thursday, June 17, 1999 /
Notices
[[Page 32666]]
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Agricultural Marketing Service
[FV-98-305]
United States Standards for Grades of Oranges (California and
Arizona), United States Standards for Grades of Grapefruit (California
and Arizona), United States Standards for Grades of Tangerines and the
United States Standards for Grades of Lemons
AGENCY: Agricultural Marketing Service, USDA.
ACTION: Notice.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) of the Department of
Agriculture (USDA) is soliciting comments on its proposal to change the
United States Standards for Grades of Oranges, United States Standards
for Grades of Grapefruit, United States Standards for Grades of
Tangerines and the United States Standards for Grades of Lemons.
Specifically, AMS is proposing to change the standards in order to
provide a minimum 25-count sample to be applied to tolerances for
defects. These changes are being requested by industry to promote
greater uniformity and consistency in the standards. In addition, AMS
proposes to further improve the standards and promote consistency by
reviewing the standards in their entirety. These standards have not
been changed within the last 34 to 50 years, depending on the commodity
in question. Revisions are needed to bring them into conformity with
current cultural and marketing practices.
DATES: Comments must be submitted on or before August 16, 1999.
ADDRESSES: Written comments may be submitted to Frank O'Sullivan, Fresh
Products Branch, Fruit and Vegetable Programs, Agricultural Marketing
Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Room 2065, South Building,
STOP 0240, PO Box 96456, Washington, DC 20090-6456; faxed to (202) 720-
8871; or e-mailed to fpb.docketclerk@usda.gov.
Comments should reference the date and page number of this issue of
the Federal Register. All comments received will be made available for
public inspection at the above address during regular business hours.
The current U.S. grade standards for these citrus crops, along with
proposed changes, are available either through the above addresses or
by accessing AMS's Home Page on the Internet at www.ams.usda.gov/
standards/frutmrkt.htm.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Frank O'Sullivan at (202) 720-2185.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Section 203(c) of the Agricultural Marketing
Act of 1946, as amended, directs and authorizes the Secretary of
Agriculture ``to develop and improve standards of quality, condition,
quantity, grade, and packaging and recommend and demonstrate such
standards in order to encourage uniformity and consistency in
commercial practices * * *''. AMS is committed to carrying out this
authority in a manner that facilitates the marketing of agricultural
commodities and make copies of official standards available upon
request. The United States Standards for Grades of Oranges (California
and Arizona), United States Standards for Grades of Grapefruit
(California and Arizona), United States Standards for Grades of
Tangerines and the United States Standards for Grades of Lemons no
longer appear in the Code of Federal Regulations but are maintained by
USDA.
AMS is proposing to change the United States Standards for Grades
of Oranges (California and Arizona), United States Standards for Grades
of Grapefruit (California and Arizona), United States Standards for
Grades of Tangerines and the United States Standards for Grades of
Lemons using the procedures it published in the August 13, 1997,
Federal Register and that appear in part 36 of title 7 of the Code of
Federal Regulations (7 CFR part 36).
AMS received a request from Sunkist Growers to change the standards
to allow for a minimum 25-count sample. In addition, AMS has
recommended other changes to bring the standards into conformity with
current cultural and marketing practices. This notice provides for a 60
day comment period which affords sufficient time for interested persons
to comment on the revisions to the standards. The following is an
outline of these changes.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Current standard Proposed Discussion
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
United States Standards for Grades of Oranges (California and Arizona)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
``U.S. Fancy'' consists of oranges of No change. N/A.
similar varietal characteristics which
are mature, well colored, firm, well
formed, of smooth texture, and which are
free from decay, broken skins which are
not healed, hard or dry skins,
exanthema, growth cracks, bruises (except exanthema, growth cracks, dryness or We propose to change the
those incident to proper handling and mushy condition, and free from injury phrase ``free from
packing), dryness or mushy condition, caused by bruises, split, rough, wide bruises'' to ``free from
and free from injury caused by split, or protruding navels, creasing, scars, injury by bruises'' to
rough, wide or protruding navels, oil spots, scale standardize with other
creasing, scars, oil spots, scale, fruit and vegetable
standards. Typically,
bruising is defined under
the definitions for
injury, damage, and
serious damage. The
definitions for injury and
damage are the same in
this standard, therefore,
when bruising occurs it
will be considered as
damage.
sunburn, dirt or other foreign material, skin breakdown, sunburn, dirt or other We propose to add ``free
disease, insects or mechanical or other foreign material disease, insects or from injury caused by skin
means. (See ``Tolerances'') mechanical or other means. (See breakdown.'' This defect
``Tolerances'') is currently being scored
based on the ``general
definition'' and is not
specified in the current
standards.
``U.S. No. 1'' consists of oranges of No change. N/A.
similar varietal characteristics which
are mature, firm, well formed, of fairly
smooth texture, and which are free from
decay, broken skins which are not
healed, hard or dry skins,
[[Page 32667]]
exanthema, growth cracks, bruises (except exanthema, growth cracks, and free from We propose to change the
those incident to proper handling and damage caused by bruises, dryness or phrase ``free from
packing), and free from damage caused by mushy condition, split, rough, wide or bruises'' to ``free from
dryness or mushy condition, split, protruding navels, creasing, scars, oil damage by bruises'' to
rough, wide or protruding navels, spots, scale, standardize with other
creasing, scars, oil spots, scale, fruit and vegetable
standards. Typically,
bruising is defined under
the definitions for
injury, damage, and
serious damage. The
definitions for injury and
damage are the same in
this standard, therefore,
when bruising occurs it
will be considered as
damage.
sunburn, dirt or other foreign material, skin breakdown, sunburn, dirt or other We propose to add ``free
disease, insects or mechanical or other foreign material, disease, insects or from damage caused by skin
means. mechanical or other means. breakdown.'' This defect
is currently being scored
based on the ``general
definition'' and is not
specified in the current
standards.
Each fruit shall be well colored except No change. N/A.
Valencia oranges which shall be at least
fairly well colored:
Provided, That navel oranges in any lot No change. N/A.
which is destined for export and which
is certified as meeting the standards
for export need be only fairly well
colored. (See ``Tolerances'')
``U.S. Combination'' consists of a ``U.S. Combination'' consists of a We propose to change the
combination of U.S. No. 1 and U.S. No. 2 combination of U.S. No. 1 and U.S. No. word ``container'' to
oranges: Provided, That at least 40 2 oranges: Provided, That at least 40 ``lot'' to remain
percent, by count, of the oranges in percent, by count, of the oranges in consistent with the
each container meet the requirements of each lot shall meet the requirements of proposed sampling method.
U.S. No. 1 grade. (See ``Tolerances'') the U.S. No. 1 grade. (See For tolerances on
``Tolerances'') individual samples please
refer to the
``Tolerances'' section on
page 7.
``U.S. No. 2'' consists of oranges of No change. N/A.
similar varietal characteristics which
are mature, fairly well colored, fairly
firm, fairly well formed, which may be
of slightly rough texture, and which are
free from decay, broken skins which are
not healed, hard or dry skins,
exanthema, growth cracks, and free from
serious damage caused by bruises,
dryness or mushy condition, split or
protruding navels, creasing, scars, oil
spots, scale,
sunburn, dirt or other foreign material, skin breakdown, sunburn, dirt or other We propose to add ``free
disease, insects or mechanical or other foreign material, disease, insects or from serious damage caused
means. (See ``Tolerances'') mechanical or other means. (See by skin breakdown.'' This
``Tolerances'') defect is currently being
scored based on the
``general definition'' and
is not specified in the
current standards.
``Unclassified'' consists of oranges Delete. When changing or updating
which have not been classified in standards in recent years,
accordance with any of the foregoing references to
grades. The term ``unclassified'' is not ``Unclassified'' have been
a grade within the meaning of these removed in an attempt to
standards but is provided as a eliminate the confusion
designation to show that no grade has this term creates. People
been applied to the lot. have incorrectly assumed
that ``Unclassified'' is
an actual grade name; it
is not. To avoid further
confusion, it is proposed
that all references to
this term be
eliminated.4703
``Tolerances.'' In order to allow for ``Tolerances.'' In order to allow for The proposed addition of
variations incident to proper grading variations incident to proper grading the phrase ``a minimum 25
and handling in each of the foregoing and handling in each of the foregoing count sample'' establishes
grades, the tolerances set forth in the grades, the tolerances, by count, based a basis for sampling
U.S. Fancy, U.S. No. 1, U.S. No. 2, and on a minimum 25 count sample, set forth uniformity. Other citrus
U.S. Combination grades are provided as in the U.S. Fancy, U.S. No. 1, U.S. No. standards (Florida), at
specified. 2, and U.S. Combination grades are industry's request, have
provided as specified. recently been changed to
include the minimum 25
count sample. This would
make the citrus standards
more uniform regarding
sampling. This change is
also consistent with the
industry's request.
[[Page 32668]]
``U.S. Fancy, U.S. No. 1, and U.S. No. 2 ``U.S. Fancy and U.S. No. 1 grades.'' We propose to establish
grades.'' Not more than 10 percent, by For defects at shipping point. Not more separate ``Shipping
count, of the oranges in any lot may than 10 percent, by count, of the Point'' tolerances to be
fail to meet the requirements relating oranges in any lot may fail to meet the more consistent with other
to color. In addition, not more than 10 requirements relating to color. In fruit and vegetable
percent, by count, of the oranges in any addition, not more than 10 percent, by standards. A tolerance for
lot may fail to meet the remaining count, of the oranges in any lot may serious damage and a
requirements of the specified grade, but fail to meet the remaining requirements ``whole number'' decay
not more than one-twentieth of this of the specified grade, included in tolerance are proposed.
amount, or one-half of 1 percent, shall this amount not more than 5 percent Separate tolerances for
be allowed for decay at shipping point: shall be allowed for defects causing serious damage and the
Provided, That an additional tolerance serious damage, included in this latter whole number decay
of 2\1/2\ percent, or a total of not amount not more than 1 percent for tolerance at shipping
more than 3 percent, shall be allowed decay. point are included in
for decay en route or at destination. practically all other
fresh fruit and vegetable
grade standards. The
current decay tolerance of
``not more than one-
twentieth of (10%), or one-
half of 1 percent'' may be
a confusing concept to an
industry which is
accustomed to ``whole''
percentage numbers on
inspection certificates.
Normally, when dealing
with defect percentages
ending in fractional
amounts, AMS inspectors
``round up'' percentages
ending in .5 or more and
``round down'' those less
than .5. The current
citrus standards included
in this Notice are an
exception to this
procedure. Changing the
one-half of 1 percent
tolerance to 1 percent
will eliminate industry's
confusion on this issue
and mirror what is
currently contained in
many fruit and vegetable
standards.
``U.S. Fancy and U.S. No. 1 grades.'' We propose to establish
For defects en route or at destination. ``En Route or At
Not more than 10 percent, by count, of Destination'' tolerances
the oranges in any lot may fail to meet to be more consistent with
the requirements relating to color. In other fruit and vegetable
addition, not more than 12 percent, by standards. This proposal
count, of the oranges in any lot may includes adding separate
fail to meet the remaining requirements tolerances for permanent
of the specified grade: Provided, that defects; for any defects
included in this amount not more than causing serious damage;
the following percentages shall be and for total defects. The
allowed for defects listed: 10 percent decay tolerance, which
for fruit having permanent defects; or remains at 3 percent, is
7 percent for defects causing serious re-worded for clarity.4703
damage, including therein not more than
5 percent for serious damage by
permanent defects and not more than 3
percent for decay.
``U.S. No. 2 grade.'' For defects at We propose to establish
shipping point. Not more than 10 separate tolerances at
percent, by count, of the oranges in ``Shipping Point'' and
any lot may fail to meet the ``En Route or At
requirements relating to color. In Destination'' to be more
addition, not more than 10 percent, by consistent with other
count, of the oranges in any lot may fruit and vegetable
fail to meet the remaining requirements standards. Also proposed
of the specified grade, included in is a 1 percent decay
this amount not more than 1 percent for tolerance at shipping
decay. point. The decay tolerance
en route or at destination
would remain at 3 percent.
``U.S. No. 2 grades.'' For defects en We propose to establish
route or at destination. Not more than ``En Route or At
10 percent, by count, of the oranges in Destination'' tolerances
any lot may fail to meet the to be more consistent with
requirements relating to color. In other fruit and vegetable
addition, not more than 12 percent, by standards. This proposal
count, of the oranges in any lot may includes adding separate
fail to meet the remaining requirements tolerances for permanent
of the specified grade: Provided, that defects and for total
included in this amount not more than defects. The decay
the following percentages shall be tolerance, which remains
allowed for defects listed: 10 percent at 3 percent, is re-worded
for fruit having permanent defects; or for clarity.
not more than 3 percent for decay.
[[Page 32669]]
``U.S. Combination grade.'' Not more than ``U.S. Combination grade.'' For defects We propose to establish
10 percent, by count, of the oranges in at shipping point. Not more than 10 separate ``Shipping
any lot may fail to meet the percent, by count, of the oranges in Point'' tolerances to be
requirements of the U.S. No. 2 grade any lot may fail to meet the more consistent with other
relating to color. In addition, not more requirements of the U.S. No. 2 grade fruit and vegetable
than 10 percent, by count, of the relating to color. In addition, not standards. A tolerance for
oranges in any lot may fail to meet the more than 10 percent, by count, of the serious damage and a
remaining requirements of the U.S. No. 2 oranges in any lot may fail to meet the ``whole number'' decay
grade, but not more than one-twentieth remaining requirements of the U.S. No. tolerance are proposed.
of this amount, or one-half of 1 2 grade, included in this amount not Separate tolerances for
percent, shall be allowed for decay at more than 1 percent for decay. serious damage and the
shipping point: Provided, That an whole number decay
additional tolerance of 2\1/2\ percent, tolerance at shipping
or a total of 3 percent, shall be point are included in
allowed for decay en route or at practically all other
destination. fresh fruit and vegetable
grade standards. The
current decay tolerance of
``not more than one-
twentieth of (10%), or one-
half of 1 percent'' may be
a confusing concept to an
industry which is
accustomed to ``whole''
percentage numbers on
inspection certificates.
Normally, when dealing
with defect percentages
ending in fractional
amounts, AMS inspectors
``round up'' percentages
ending in .5 or more and
``round down'' those less
than .5. The current
citrus standards included
in this Notice are an
exception to this
procedure. Changing the
one-half of 1 percent
tolerance to 1 percent
will eliminate industry's
confusion on this issue
and mirror what is
currently contained in
many fruit and vegetable
standards.
``U.S. Combination grade.'' For defects We propose to establish
en route or at destination. Not more ``En Route or At
than 10 percent, by count, of the Destination'' tolerances
oranges in any lot may fail to meet the to be more consistent with
requirements of the U.S. No. 2 grade other fruit and vegetable
relating to color. In addition, not standards. This proposal
more than 12 percent, by count, of the includes adding separate
oranges in any lot may fail to meet the tolerances for permanent
remaining requirements of the U.S. No. defects; for any defects
2 grade: Provided, that included in causing serious damage;
this amount not more than the following and for total defects. The
percentages shall be allowed for decay tolerance, which
defects listed: 10 percent for fruit remains at 3 percent, is
having permanent defects; or not more re-worded for clarity.
than 3 percent for decay.
(a) No part of any tolerance shall be ``U.S. Combination grade.'' For defects We propose to change the
allowed to reduce for the lot as a whole at shipping point and en route or at word ``container'' to
the percentage of U.S. No. 1 required in destination. No part of any tolerance ``sample'' to be
the combination, but individual shall be allowed to reduce for the lot consistent with the
containers may have not more than a as a whole, the 40 percent of U.S. No. proposed sampling method
total of 10 percent less than percentage 1 oranges required in the U.S. for grade determination.
of U.S. No. 1 required: Provided, That Combination grade, but individual We also propose to re-word
the entire lot averages within the samples may have not less than 30 this section to make it
percentage required. percent of U.S. No. 1 required: consistent with other
Provided, That the entire lot averages fruit and vegetable
within the percentage required. standards including those
listed in this Notice.4703
``Application of tolerances.'' (a) Except ``Application of tolerances.'' We propose to change the
when applying the tolerances for Individual samples, based on a minimum standards to include
standards for export, the contents of 25 count, are subject to the following minimum 25 count samples,
individual packages in the lot, based on limitations, unless otherwise not ``packages.'' This is
sample inspection, are subject to the specified. Individual samples shall consistent with the
following limitations: Provided, That have not more than one and one-half recently-changed Florida
the averages for the entire lot are times a specified tolerance of 10 Citrus Standards.
within the tolerances specified for the percent or more, and not more than Individual sample
grade: double a specified tolerance of less tolerances are also
than 10 percent: Provided, that at proposed to reflect the
least one decayed fruit may be language and tolerances
permitted in any sample: And provided widely used in other fruit
further, that the averages for the and vegetable standards.
entire lot are within the tolerances
specified for the grade.
(1) For packages which contain more than Delete. We propose this deletion
10 pounds, and a tolerance of 10 percent because the reference to
or more is provided, individual packages various size package
in any lot shall have not more than one restrictions from the
and one-half times the tolerance current standard would no
specified. For packages which contain longer be valid with a
more than 10 pounds and a tolerance of minimum 25 count sample.
less than 10 percent is provided,
individual packages in any lot shall
have not more than double the tolerance
specified, except that at least one
decayed orange may be permitted in any
package.
[[Page 32670]]
(2) For packages which contain 10 pounds Delete. We propose this deletion
or less, individual packages in any lot because the reference to
are not restricted as to the percentage various size package
of defects: Provided, That not more than restrictions listed in the
one orange which is seriously damaged by current standard would no
dryness or mushy condition may be longer be valid with a
permitted in any package and, in minimum 25 count sample.
addition, en route or at destination not
more than 10 percent of the packages may
have more than one decayed orange.
``Standard pack.'' (a) Oranges shall be ``Standard pack.'' (a) Oranges shall be We propose to delete the
fairly uniform in size and shall be fairly uniform in size and shall be reference to ``wrapped
packed in boxes or cartons and arranged packed in boxes or cartons and arranged fruit'' because the
according to the approved and recognized according to the approved and industry no longer packs
methods. Each wrapped fruit shall be recognized methods. fruit in this manner.
fairly well enclosed by its individual
wrapper.
(b) All such containers shall be tightly (b) All such containers shall be tightly We propose to delete the
packed and well filled but the contents packed and well filled but the contents reference to ``nailed
shall not show excessive or unnecessary shall not show excessive or unnecessary boxes'' because they are
bruising because of overfilled bruising because of overfilled no longer used by the
containers. When oranges are packed in containers. When oranges are packed in industry.
standard nailed boxes, each box shall cartons or in wire-bound boxes, each
have a minimum bulge of 1\1/4\ inches; container shall be at least level full
when packed in cartons or in wire-bound at time of packing.
boxes, each container shall be at least
level full at time of packing.
(c) ``Fairly uniform in size'' means that (c) ``Fairly uniform in size'' means We propose to change the
when oranges are packed for 113 carton that when oranges are packed for 113 word ``container'' to
count or smaller size, or equivalent carton count or smaller size, or ``sample'' to be
sizes when packed in other containers, equivalent sizes when packed in other consistent with the
not more than 10 percent, by count, of containers, not more than 10 percent, proposed sampling method
the oranges in any container may vary by count, of the oranges in any sample for grade determination.
more than five-sixteenths inch in may vary more than five-sixteenths inch
diameter; when packed for sizes larger in diameter; when packed for sizes
than 113 carton count or equivalent larger than 113 carton count or
sizes packed in other containers, not equivalent sizes packed in other
more than 10 percent, by count, of the containers, not more than 10 percent,
oranges in any container may vary more by count, of the oranges in any sample
than seven-sixteenths inch in diameter. may vary more than seven-sixteenths
inch in diameter.
(1) ``Diameter'' means the greatest No change. N/A.
dimension measured at right angles to a
line from stem to blossom end of the
fruit.
(d) In order to allow for variations (d) In order to allow for variations We propose to delete the
incident to proper packing, when oranges incident to proper packing, not more reference to ``wrapped
are wrapped not more than 10 percent of than 5 percent of the samples in any fruit'' because industry
the wrapped fruit in any container may lot may fail to meet the requirements no longer packs fruit in
fail to meet the requirements pertaining for standard pack. this manner; and to change
to wrapping; and, not more than 5 the word ``container'' to
percent of the containers in any lot may ``sample'' to be
fail to meet the requirements for consistent with the
standard pack. proposed sampling
method.4703
``Standard sizing and fill.'' (a) Boxes ``Standard sizing and fill.'' (a) Boxes We propose to change the
or cartons in which oranges are not or cartons in which oranges are not word ``container'' to
packed according to a definite pattern packed according to a definite pattern ``sample'' to be
do not meet the requirements of standard do not meet the requirements of consistent with the
pack, but may be certified as meeting standard pack, but may be certified as proposed sampling method.
the requirements of standard sizing and meeting the requirements of standard
fill: Provided, That the oranges in the sizing and fill: Provided, That the
containers are fairly uniform in size as oranges in the samples are fairly
defined in the standard pack section: uniform in size as defined in the
And provided further, That the contents standard pack section: And provided
have been properly shaken down and the further, That the contents have been
container is at least level full at time properly shaken down and the container
of packing. is at least level full at time of
packing.
(b) In order to allow for variations (b) In order to allow for variations We propose to change the
incident to proper packing, not more incident to proper packing, not more word ``container'' to
than 5 percent of the containers in any than 5 percent of the samples in any ``sample'' to be
lot may fail to meet the requirements of lot may fail to meet the requirements consistent with the
standard sizing and fill. of standard sizing and fill. proposed sampling method.
``Standards for export.'' (a) Not more ``Standards for export.'' (a) Not more We propose to change the
than a total of 10 percent, by count, of than a total of 10 percent, by count, word ``container'' to
the oranges in any container may be of the oranges in any sample may be ``sample'' to be
soft, affected by decay, have broken soft, affected by decay, have broken consistent with the
skins, which are not healed, growth skins, which are not healed, growth proposed sampling method.
cracks, or be damaged by creasing or cracks, or be damaged by creasing or
skin breakdown, or seriously damaged by skin breakdown, or seriously damaged by
split or protruding navels, or by split or protruding navels, or by
dryness or mushy condition, except that: dryness or mushy condition, except
that:
[[Page 32671]]
(1) Not more than one-half of 1 percent No change. N/A.
shall be allowed for oranges affected by
decay;
(2) Not more than 3 percent shall have No change. N/A.
broken skins which are not healed;
(3) Not more than 3 percent shall have No change. N/A.
growth cracks;
(4) Not more than 5 percent shall be No change. N/A.
soft;
(5) Not more than 5 percent shall be No change. N/A.
damaged by creasing;
(6) Not more than 5 percent shall be No change. N/A.
seriously damaged by split or protruding
navels;
(7) Not more than 5 percent shall be No change. N/A.
seriously damaged by dryness or mushy
condition; and,
(8) Not more than 5 percent shall be No change. N/A.
damaged by skin breakdown.
(b) Any lot of oranges shall be (b) Any lot of oranges shall be We propose to change the
considered as meeting the standards for considered as meeting the standards for word ``container'' to
export if the entire lot averages within export if the entire lot averages ``sample'' to be
the requirements specified: Provided, within the requirements specified: consistent with the
That no sample from the containers in Provided, That no sample from the proposed sampling method.
any lot shall have not more than double containers in any lot shall have not
the percentage specified for any one more than double the percentage
defect, and that not more than a total specified for any one defect, and that
of 10 percent, by count, of the oranges not more than a total of 10 percent, by
in any container has any of the defects count, of the oranges in any sample has
enumerated in the standards for export. any of the defects enumerated in the
standards for export.
``Similar varietal characteristics'' No change. N/A.
means that the oranges in any container
are similar in color and type.
``Well colored'' means that the fruit is No change. N/A.
at least light orange in color, with not
more than a trace of green at the stem
end, and not more than 15 percent of the
remainder of the surface of the fruit
shows green color.
``Firm'' means that the fruit does not No change. N/A.
yield more than slightly to moderate
pressure.
``Well formed'' means that fruit shows No change. N/A.4703
the normal shape characteristic of the
variety.
``Smooth texture'' means that the skin is No change. N/A.
of fairly fine grain for the variety,
the ``pebbling'' is not pronounced, and
any furrows radiating from the stem end
are shallow.
``Injury'' means any defect which more No change. N/A.
than slightly affects the appearance, or
the edible or shipping quality of the
fruit. Any one of the following defects,
or any combination of defects the
seriousness of which exceeds the maximum
allowed for any one defect, shall be
considered as injury:
(a) Split, rough, wide or protruding No change. N/A.
navels when a split is unhealed or is
more than one-eighth inch in length; or
when the navel protrudes beyond the
general contour of the fruit; or when
flush with the contour but with the
opening so wide, considering the size of
the fruit, or the navel growth so folded
and ridged that it detracts noticeably
from the appearance of the fruit;
(b) Slight creasing which is more than No change. N/A.
barely visible, or which extends over
more than 20 percent of the fruit
surface;
(c) Scars (including sprayburn and No change. N/A.
fumigation injury) which exceed the
following aggregate areas of different
types of scars, or a combination of two
or more types of scars the seriousness
of which exceeds the maximum allowed for
any one type:
(1) Scars which are very dark and which No change. N/A.
have an aggregate area exceeding that of
a circle one-eighth inch in diameter;
(2) Scars which are dark, rough or deep No change. N/A.
and which have an aggregate area
exceeding that of a circle one-fourth
inch in diameter;
[[Page 32672]]
(3) Scars which are fairly light in No change. N/A.
color, slightly rough, or with slight
depth and which have an aggregate area
exceeding that of a circle one-half inch
in diameter; and,
(4) Scars which are light in color, No change. N/A.
fairly smooth, with no depth and which
have an aggregate area of more than 5
percent of the fruit surface;
(d) Oil spots (oleocellosis or similar No change. N/A.
injuries) which are depressed or soft,
or which have an aggregate area of more
than 2\1/2\ percent of the fruit
surface, or which are green and more
than 4 in number;
(e) Scale when medium or large and more No change. N/A.
than 5 are present; and,
(f) Sunburn which appreciably changes the No change. N/A.
normal color or shape of the fruit, or
which affects more than 10 percent of
the fruit surface.
(g) Skin breakdown when exceeding that This defect is currently
of a circle \1/8\ inch in diameter. being scored using the
``general definition.'' We
propose to add specific
scoring criteria for
objective treatment of
this defect.
(h) Bruising when segment walls are This defect is currently
collapsed, or albedo and juice sacs are being scored using the
ruptured. ``general definition.'' We
propose to add specific
scoring criteria for
objective treatment of
this defect.4703
``Fairly smooth texture'' means that the No change. N/A.
skin does not feel noticeably rough or
coarse for the variety. The size of the
fruit should be considered in judging
texture, as large fruit is not usually
as smooth as smaller fruit. It is common
for the fruit to show larger and coarser
``pebbling'' on the stem end portion
than on the blossom end. The presence of
furrows or grooves on the stem end
portion of the fruit is a common
condition in certain varieties, and the
fruit shall not be considered as
slightly rough unless the furrows or
grooves are of sufficient depth, length,
and number as to materially affect the
appearance and smoothness of the orange.
``Damage'' means any defect which No change. N/A.
materially affects the appearance, or
the edible or shipping quality of the
fruit. Any one of the following defects,
or any combination of defects the
seriousness of which exceeds the maximum
allowed for any one defect, shall be
considered as damage:
(a) Dryness or mushy condition when No change. N/A.
affecting all segments more than one-
fourth inch at stem end, or the
equivalent of this amount, by volume,
when occurring in other portions of the
fruit;
(b) Split, rough, wide or protruding No change. N/A.
navels when there are more than three
splits, or when any split is unhealed or
is more than one-fourth inch in length;
or navels which flare, bulge, or
protrude materially beyond the general
contour of the fruit; or when the navel
opening is so wide, considering the size
of the fruit, or the navel growth so
folded and ridged that it detracts
materially from the appearance of the
fruit;
(c) Creasing which materially weakens the No change. N/A.
skin, or which extends over more than
one-third of the fruit surface;
(d) Scars (including sprayburn and No change. N/A.
fumigation injury) which exceed the
following aggregate areas of different
types of scars, or a combination of two
or more types of scars the seriousness
of which exceeds the maximum allowed for
any one type:
[[Page 32673]]
(1) Scars which are very dark, with No change. N/A.
slight depth, and which have an
aggregate area exceeding that of a
circle one-fourth inch in diameter;
(2) Scars which are very dark, with no No change. N/A.
depth, and which have an aggregate area
exceeding that of a circle one-half inch
in diameter;
(3) Scars which are dark, and rough or No change. N/A.
deep, and which have an aggregate area
exceeding that of a circle one-half inch
in diameter;
(4) Scars which are dark, and slightly No change. N/A.
rough or with slight depth, and which
have an aggregate area exceeding that of
a circle three-fourths inch in diameter;
(5) Scars which are fairly light in No change. N/A.
color, slightly rough or with slight
depth, and which have an aggregate area
of more than 5 percent of the fruit
surface; and,
(6) Scars which are light in color, No change. N/A.4703
fairly smooth, with no depth, and which
have an aggregate area of more than 10
percent of the fruit surface;
(e) Oil spots (oleocellosis or similar No change. N/A.
injuries) which are depressed or soft,
or which have an aggregate area of more
than 5 percent of the fruit surface, or
which are green and more than 7 in
number;
(f) Scale when medium or large and more (f) Scale when medium or large and more We propose to change the
than 3 scales are present in each of 3 than 7 are present, or when medium or scoring criteria of this
circular areas 1 inch in diameter, large scale, outside the stem button defect to simplify the
selected as the worst infested areas, or area, aggregate more than a circle 5/8 scoring of scale and
when more than 7 scales are present in inch in diameter. provide uniformity with
one of these areas: Provided, That scale other citrus standards.
within a circle five-eighths inch in
diameter centered at the stem button or
button socket shall not be considered in
determining whether an orange is
damaged; and;
(g) Sunburn which causes appreciable No change. N/A.
flattening of the fruit, drying or
darkening of the skin, or affects more
than 25 percent of the fruit surface.
(h) Skin breakdown when exceeding that This defect is currently
of a circle \1/4\ inch in diameter. being scored using the
``general definition.'' We
propose to add specific
scoring criteria for
objective treatment of
this defect.
(i) Bruising when segment walls are This defect is currently
collapsed, or albedo and juice sacs are being scored using the
ruptured. ``general definition.'' We
propose to add specific
scoring criteria for
objective treatment of
this defect.
``Fairly well colored'' means that the No change. N/A.
yellow or orange color predominates on
the fruit.
``Fairly firm'' means that the fruit may No change. N/A.
yield to moderate pressure but is not
soft.
``Fairly well formed'' means that the No change. N/A.
fruit is not of the shape characteristic
of the variety but is not decidedly
flattened, pointed, extremely elongated,
or otherwise badly deformed.
Slightly rough texture'' means that the No change. N/A.
skin is not decidedly rough, badly
folded, badly ridged, or decidedly
lumpy. Heavily ``pebbled'' skin shall be
considered as slightly rough.
``Serious damage'' means any defect which No change. N/A.
seriously affects the appearance, or the
edible or shipping quality of the fruit.
Any one of the following defects, or any
combination of defects the seriousness
of which exceeds the maximum allowed for
any one defect, shall be considered as
serious damage:
(a) Dryness or mushy condition when No change. N/A.
affecting all segments more than one-
half inch at stem end, or the equivalent
of this amount, by volume, when
occurring in other portions of the
fruit;
[[Page 32674]]
(b) Split or protruding navels when any No change. N/A.
split is unhealed or is more than one-
half inch in length, or when two or more
splits aggregate more than 1 inch in
length; or navels which protrude
seriously beyond the general contour of
the fruit; or when the navel opening is
so wide, considering the size of the
fruit, or the navel growth so badly
folded and ridged that it detracts
seriously from the appearance of the
fruit;
(c) Creasing which seriously weakens the No change. N/A.4703
skin, or which is distributed over
practically the entire fruit surface;
(d) Scars (including sprayburn and No change. N/A.
fumigation injury) which exceed the
following aggregate areas of different
types of scars, or a combination of two
or more types of scars the seriousness
of which exceeds the maximum allowed for
any one type:
(1) Scar which are very dark, very rough No change. N/A.
or very deep, and which have an
aggregate area of more than 5 percent of
the fruit surface;
(2) Scars which are dark, rough or deep, No change. N/A.
and which have an aggregate area of more
than 10 percent of the fruit surface;
(3) Scars which are fairly light in No change. N/A.
color, slightly rough or of slight depth
and which have an aggregate area of more
than 15 percent of the fruit surface;
and,
(4) Scars which are light in color, No change. N/A.
fairly smooth, with no depth, and which
have an aggregate area of more than 25
percent of the fruit surface;
(e) Oil spots (oleocellosis or similar No change. N/A.
injuries) which are depressed or soft,
or which have an aggregate area of more
than 10 percent of the fruit surface;
(f) Scale when medium or large and more (f) Scale when medium or large and when We propose to change the
than 9 scales are present in each of 3 aggregating more than a circle \3/4\ scoring criteria of this
circular areas 1 inch in diameter, inch in diameter. defect to simplify the
selected as the worst infested areas, or scoring of scale and
if more than 19 scales are present in provide uniformity with
one of these areas: Provided, That scale other citrus standards.
within a circle five-eighths inch in
diameter centered at the stem button or
button socket shall not be considered in
determining whether an orange is
seriously damaged; and,
(g) Sunburn which causes decided No change. N/A.
flattening of the fruit, drying or dark
discoloration of the skin, or which
affects more than one-third of the fruit
surface.
(h) Skin breakdown when exceeding that This defect is currently
of a circle \5/8\ inch in diameter. being scored using the
``general definition.'' We
propose to add specific
scoring criteria for
objective treatment of
this defect.
(i) Bruising when fruit has been split This defect is currently
open, peel is badly watersoaked being scored using the
following bruising or albedo and juice ``general definition.'' We
sacs are ruptured causing a mushy propose to add specific
condition affecting all segments more scoring criteria for
than \3/4\ inch at bruised area or the objective treatment of
equivalent of this amount, by volume, this defect.
when affecting more than one area on
the fruit.
[[Page 32675]]
Note: All references in this standard to Currently, the standard
area, aggregating area, or length are does not state whether
based on an orange 2\7/8\ inches in defects are based on a
diameter, allowing proportionately specific size fruit; or if
greater areas on larger fruit and greater defective areas
lesser areas on smaller fruit. are allowed on larger
fruit and lesser areas on
smaller fruit. Many fruit
and vegetable standards
contain this distinction.
To clarify the issue and
to standardize with other
fruit and vegetable
standards, we propose to
include this statement.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
United States Standards for Grades of Grapefruit (California and Arizona)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
``U.S. Fancy'' shall consist of No change. N/A.
grapefruit of similar varietal
characteristics which are mature, well
colored, firm, well formed, of smooth
texture for the variety, and fairly thin
skinned; free from decay, broken skins
which are not healed, hard or
dry skins, bruises (except those incident dry skins, dryness or mushy condition, We propose to change the
to proper handling and packing), dryness and free from injury caused by bruises, phrase ``free from
or mushy condition, and from injury sprayburn, fumigation, exanthema, bruises'' to ``free from
caused by sprayburn, fumigation, scars, green spots, scale, sunburn, injury by bruises'' to be
exanthema, scars, green spots, scale, more consistent with other
sunburn, fruit and vegetable
standards. Typically,
bruising is defined under
the definitions of injury,
damage and serious damage.
As proposed, when bruising
is encountered in the U.S.
Fancy grade, it will be
considered injury.
sprouting, dirt or other foreign oil spots, skin breakdown, sprouting, We propose to add ``free
materials, disease, insects or dirt or other foreign materials, from injury by'' to the
mechanical or other means. Stems shall disease, insects or mechanical or other defects skin breakdown and
be properly clipped. (See means. (See ``Tolerances'') oil spots to be more
``Tolerances'') consistent with other
fruit and vegetable
standards. These defects
are currently scored based
on the ``general
definition.'' We also
propose to delete the
phrase ``stems shall be
properly clipped.''
Present harvesting and
packing techniques remove
all stems from the fruit,
making this requirement
unnecessary.4703
``U.S. No. 1'' shall consist of No change. N/A.
grapefruit of similar varietal
characteristics which are mature, fairly
well colored, firm, well formed, of
fairly smooth texture for the variety,
and not excessively thick skinned; free
from decay, broken skins which are not
healed, hard or
dry skins, bruises (except those incident dry skins, and free from damage caused We propose to change the
to proper handling and packing), and by bruises, dryness or mushy condition, phrase ``free from
from damage caused by dryness or mushy sprayburn, fumigation, exanthema, bruises'' to ``free from
condition, sprayburn, fumigation, scars, green spots, scale, sunburn damage by bruises'' which
exanthema, scars, green spots, scale, is more consistent with
sunburn other fruit and vegetable
standards. Typically,
bruising is defined under
the definitions of injury,
damage and serious damage.
As proposed, when bruising
is encountered in the U.S.
No. 1 grade, it will be
considered damage.
sprouting, dirt or other foreign oil spots, skin breakdown, sprouting, We propose to add ``free
materials, disease, insects, or dirt or other foreign materials, from damage by'' to the
mechanical or other means. Stems shall disease, insects or mechanical or other defects skin breakdown and
be properly clipped. (See means. (See ``Tolerances'') oil spots to be more
``Tolerances'') consistent with other
fruit and vegetable
standards. These defects
are currently scored based
on the ``general
definition.'' We also
propose to delete the
phrase ``stems shall be
properly clipped.''
Present harvesting and
packing techniques remove
all stems from the fruit,
making this requirement
unnecessary.
``U.S. No. 2'' shall consist of No change. N/A.
grapefruit of similar varietal
characteristics which are mature,
slightly colored, fairly firm, fairly
well formed, and not decidedly rough;
free from decay, broken skins which are
not healed, hard or dry skins, and from
serious damage caused by bruises,
dryness or mushy condition, sprayburn,
fumigation, exanthema, scars, green
spots, scale, sunburn
[[Page 32676]]
sprouting, dirt or other foreign oil spots, skin breakdown, sprouting, We propose to add ``free
materials, disease, insects, or dirt or other foreign materials, from serious damage by''
mechanical or other means. Stems shall disease, insects or mechanical or other to the defects skin
be properly clipped. (See means. (See ``Tolerances'') breakdown and oil spots.
``Tolerances'') These defects are
currently scored based on
the ``general
definition.'' We propose
to add specific scoring
criteria for objective
treatment of these
defects. We also propose
to delete the phrase
``stems shall be properly
clipped.'' Present
harvesting and packing
techniques remove all
stems from the fruit,
making this requirement
unnecessary.
``U.S. Combination grade.'' Any lot of ``U.S. Combination grade'' shall consist We propose to re-word the
grapefruit may be designated ``U.S. of a combination of U.S. No. 1 and U.S. requirements of this grade
Combination'' when not less than 40 No. 2 grapefruit: Provided, That at to make it consistent with
percent, by count, of the fruits in each least 40 percent, by count, of the other commodities
container meet the requirements of U.S. grapefruit in each lot shall meet the containing a Combination
No. 1 grade and the remainder U.S. No. 2 requirements of the U.S. No. 1 grade. grade.
grade. (See ``Tolerances'') (See ``Tolerances'')
``U.S. No. 3'' shall consist of No change. N/A.
grapefruit of similar varietal
characteristics which are mature,
slightly colored, which may be slightly
spongy, misshapen, and rough but not
seriously lumpy; which are free from
decay, broken skins which are not
healed, hard or dry
skins, and from serious damage caused by skins, and free from very serious damage We propose to change the
bruises, dryness or mushy condition, and caused by bruises, dryness or mushy phrases ``free from
from very serious damage caused by condition, sprayburn, fumigation, serious damage by
sprayburn, fumigation, exanthema, scars, exanthema, scars, green spots, scale, bruises'' and ``free from
green spots, scale, sunburn sunburn, oil spots, skin breakdown, dryness or mushy
condition'' to ``free from
very serious damage by
bruises, dryness or mushy
condition.'' In other
citrus standards, defects
scored against the U.S.
No. 3 grade are typically
``very serious damage.''
This revision will make it
more consistent with those
standards. We also propose
to add the phrase ``free
from very serious damage
by skin breakdown and oil
spots.'' These defects are
currently being scored
based on the ``general
definition.'' We propose
to add specific scoring
criteria for objective
treatment of these
defects.''
sprouting, dirt or other foreign sprouting, dirt or other foreign We propose to delete the
materials, disease, insects or materials, disease, insects or phrase ``stems shall be
mechanical or other means. Stems shall mechanical or other means. (See properly clipped.''
be properly clipped. (See ``Tolerances'') Present harvesting and
``Tolerances'') packing techniques remove
all stems from the fruit,
making this requirement
unnecessary.4703
``Unclassified'' shall consist of Delete. When changing or updating
grapefruit which have not been standards in recent years,
classified in accordance with any of the references to
foregoing grades. The term ``Unclassified'' have been
``unclassified'' is not a grade within removed in an attempt to
the meaning of these standards but is eliminate the confusion
provided as a designation to show that this term creates. People
no definite grade has been applied to have incorrectly assumed
the lot. that ``Unclassified'' is
an actual grade name; it
is not. To avoid further
confusion, it is proposed
that all references to
this term be eliminated.
``Tolerances.'' In order to allow for ``Tolerances.'' In order to allow for The proposed addition of
variations incident to proper grading variations incident to proper grading the phrase ``a minimum 25
and handling in each of the foregoing and handling in each of the foregoing count sample'' establishes
grades, the tolerances set forth in the grades, the tolerances, by count, based a basis for uniform
U.S. Fancy, U.S. No. 1, U.S. No. 2, U.S. on a minimum 25 count sample, set forth sampling. Other citrus
No. 3 and U.S. Combination grades are in the U.S. Fancy, U.S. No. 1, U.S. No. standards (Florida), at
provided as specified: 2, U.S. No. 3 and U.S. Combination industry's request, have
grades are provided as specified: recently been changed to
include the minimum 25
count sample. This would
make the citrus standards
more uniform regarding
sampling. This change also
is consistent with the
industry's request.
[[Page 32677]]
``U.S. Fancy, U.S. No. 1, U.S. No. 2 and ``U.S. Fancy, U.S. No. 1, and U.S. No. 2 We propose to establish
U.S. No. 3 grades.'' Not more than 10 grades.'' For defects at shipping separate ``Shipping
percent, by count, of the fruit in any point. Not more than 10 percent, by Point'' tolerances to
lot may fail to meet the requirements of count, of the grapefruit in any lot may standardize them with
the specified grade, other than for fail to meet the requirements relating other fruit and vegetable
color, but not more than one-twentieth to color. In addition, not more than 10 standards. A tolerance for
of this amount, or one-half of 1 percent, by count, of the grapefruit in very serious damage and a
percent, shall be allowed for decay at any lot may fail to meet the remaining ``whole number'' decay
shipping point: Provided, That an requirements of the specified grade, tolerance are also
additional tolerance of 2\1/2\ percent, included in this amount not more than 5 proposed. Tolerances for
or a total of not more than 3 percent, percent shall be allowed for defects very serious damage are
shall be allowed for decay en route or causing very serious damage, included part of all other
at destination. In addition, not more in this latter amount not more than 1 standards that contain a
than 10 percent, by count, of the fruit percent for decay. No. 3 grade and a whole
in any lot may not meet the requirements number decay tolerance at
relating to color. shipping point is included
in practically all other
fresh fruit and vegetable
grade standards. The
current decay tolerance of
``not more than one-
twentieth of (10%), or one-
half of 1 percent'' may be
a confusing concept to an
industry which is
accustomed to ``whole''
percentage numbers on
inspection certificates.
Normally, when dealing
with defect percentages
ending in fractional
amounts, AMS inspectors
``round up'' percentages
ending in .5 or more and
``round down'' those less
than .5. The current
citrus standards included
in this Notice are an
exception to this
procedure. Changing the
one-half of 1 percent
tolerance to 1 percent
will eliminate industry's
confusion on this issue
and mirror what is
currently contained in
many fruit and vegetable
standards.
``U.S. Fancy, U.S. No. 1, and U.S. No. 2 We propose to establish
grades.'' For defects en route or at ``En Route or At
destination. Not more than 10 percent, Destination'' tolerances
by count, of the grapefruit in any lot to be more consistent with
may fail to meet the requirements other fruit and vegetable
relating to color. In addition, not standards. This proposal
more than 12 percent, by count, of the includes adding separate
grapefruit in any lot may fail to meet tolerances for permanent
the remaining requirements of the defects; for any defects
specified grade: Provided, that causing very serious
included in this amount not more than damage; and for total
the following percentages shall be defects. The decay
allowed for defects listed: 10 percent tolerance, which remains
for fruit having permanent defects; or at 3 percent, is re-worded
7 percent for defects causing very for clarity.4703
serious damage, including therein not
more than 5 percent for very serious
damage by permanent defects and not
more than 3 percent for decay.
``U.S. No. 3 grade.'' For defects at We propose to establish
shipping point. Not more than 10 separate tolerances at
percent, by count, of the grapefruit in ``Shipping Point'' to be
any lot may fail to meet the more consistent with other
requirements relating to color. In fruit and vegetable
addition, not more than 10 percent, by standards. Also included
count, of the grapefruit in any lot may is a 1 percent shipping
fail to meet the remaining requirements point decay tolerance
of the specified grade, included in which is commonly found in
this amount not more than 1 percent for other citrus standards.
decay
``U.S. No. 3 grade.'' For defects en We propose to establish
route or at destination. Not more than separate tolerances ``En
10 percent, by count, of the grapefruit Route or at Destination''
in any lot may fail to meet the to be more consistent with
requirements relating to color. In other fruit and vegetable
addition, not more than 12 percent, by standards. Included is a
count, of the grapefruit in any lot may tolerance for permanent
fail to meet the remaining requirements defects and a total
of the specified grade: Provided, that defects tolerance. The
included in this amount not more than decay tolerance would
the following percentages shall be remain at 3 percent.
allowed for defects listed: 10 percent
for fruit having permanent defects; or
not more than 3 percent for decay.
[[Page 32678]]
``U.S. Combination grade.'' Not more than ``U.S. Combination grade.'' For defects We propose to establish
10 percent, by count, of the fruit in at shipping point. Not more than 10 separate tolerances at
any lot may fail to meet the percent, by count, of the grapefruit in ``Shipping Point'' to be
requirements of this grade, other than any lot may fail to meet the more consistent with other
for color, but not more than one- requirements of the U.S. No. 2 grade fruit and vegetable
twentieth of this amount, or one-half of relating to color. In addition, not standards. This proposal
1 percent, shall be allowed for decay at more than 10 percent, by count, of the includes adding separate
shipping point: Provided, That an grapefruit in any lot may fail to meet tolerances for permanent
additional tolerance of 2\1/2\ percent, the remaining requirements of the U.S. defects; for any defects
or a total of not more than 3 percent, No. 2 grade, included in this amount causing very serious
shall be allowed for decay en route or not more than 5 percent for very damage; and for total
at destination. This 3 percent tolerance serious damage, included in this latter defects. The decay
may be used to reduce the percentage of amount not more than 1 percent for tolerance is also changed
U.S. No. 1 grade required in the decay. to 1 percent. These
combination, provided the affected tolerances are commonly
fruits meet the requirements of the U.S. found in other citrus
No. 1 grade in other respects. In standards.
addition, not more than 10 percent, by
count, of the fruit in any lot may not
meet the requirements of the U.S. No. 2
grade for color.
``U.S. Combination grade.'' For defects We propose to establish
en route or at destination. Not more ``En Route or At
than 10 percent, by count, of the Destination'' tolerances
grapefruit in any lot may fail to meet to be more consistent with
the requirements of the U.S. No. 2 other fruit and vegetable
grade relating to color. In addition, standards. The decay
not more than 12 percent, by count, of tolerance, which remains
the grapefruit in any lot may fail to at 3 percent, is re-worded
meet the remaining requirements of the for clarity.
U.S. No. 2 grade: Provided, that
included in this amount not more than
the following percentages shall be
allowed for defects listed: 10 percent
for fruit having permanent defects; or
7 percent for defects causing very
serious damage, including therein not
more than 5 percent for very serious
damage by permanent defects and not
more than 3 percent for decay.
No part of any tolerance, other than that ``U.S. Combination grade.'' For defects We propose to change the
for decay, shall be allowed to reduce at shipping point and en route or at word ``container'' to
for the lot as a whole the percentage of destination. No part of any tolerance ``sample'' to be
U.S. No. 1 in the combination, but shall be allowed to reduce for the lot consistent with the
individual containers may have not more as a whole, the 40 percent of U.S. No. proposed sampling method
than a total of 10 percent less than the 1 grapefruit required in the U.S. for grade determination.
percentage of U.S. No. 1 specified: Combination grade, but individual We also propose to re-word
Provided, That the entire lot averages samples may have not less than 30 this section to make it
within the percentage specified. percent less of U.S. No. 1 required: consistent with other
Provided, That the entire lot averages fruit and vegetable
within the percentage specified. standards including those
listed in this Notice.4703
``Application of tolerances to individual ``Application of tolerances.'' We propose to change the
packages.'' (a) The contents of Individual samples, based on a minimum standards to include
individual packages in the lot, based on 25 count, are subject to the following minimum 25 count samples,
sample inspection, are subject to the limitations, unless otherwise not ``packages.'' This is
following limitation: Provided, That the specified. Individual samples shall consistent with the
averages for the entire lot are within have not more than one and one-half recently-changed Florida
the tolerances specified for the grade. times a specified tolerance of 10 Citrus Standards.
percent or more, and not more than Individual sample
double a specified tolerance of less tolerances are also
than 10 percent: Provided, that at proposed to reflect the
least one decayed fruit may be language and tolerances
permitted in any sample: And provided widely used in other fruit
further, that the averages for the and vegetable standards.
entire lot are within the tolerances
specified for the grade.
(1) For packages which contain more than Delete. We propose this deletion
25 pounds, and a tolerance of 10 percent because the reference to
or more is provided, individual packages various size package
in any lot shall have not more than one restrictions from the
and one-half times the tolerance current standard would no
specified. For packages which contain longer be valid with a
more than 25 pounds and a tolerance of minimum 25 count sample.
less than 10 percent is provided,
individual packages in any lot shall
have not more than double the tolerance
specified, except that at least one
decayed or very seriously damaged fruit
may be permitted in any package.
[[Page 32679]]
(2) For packages which contain 25 pounds Delete. We propose this deletion
or less, individual packages in any lot because the reference to
are not restricted as to the percentage various size package
of defects: Provided, That not more than restrictions from the
one grapefruit which is seriously current standard would no
damaged by dryness or mushy condition or longer be valid with a
very seriously damaged by other means minimum 25 count sample.
may be permitted in any package and, in
addition, en route or at destination not
more than 10 percent of the packages may
have more than one decayed fruit.
``Standard pack.'' (a) Grapefruit shall ``Standard pack.'' (a) Grapefruit shall We propose to delete the
be fairly uniform in size, and, when be fairly uniform in size, and, when reference to ``wrapped
packed in boxes, shall be arranged packed in boxes, shall be arranged fruit'' because the
according to the approved and recognized according to the approved and industry no longer packs
methods. Each wrapped fruit shall be recognized methods. fruit in this manner.
fairly well wrapped.
(b) All packages shall be tightly packed No change. N/A.
and well filled but the contents shall
not show excessive or unnecessary
bruising because of overfilled packages.
(c) When packed in standard nailed boxes, Delete. We propose to delete the
grapefruit shall show a minimum bulge of reference to ``nailed
2 inches, except that grapefruit of a boxes'' as they are no
size 80 size or smaller need only show a longer used by the
bulge of 1\1/2\ inches. industry.
(d) ``Fairly uniform in size'' means that (d) ``Fairly uniform in size'' means We propose to change the
not more than 5 percent, by count, of that not more than 5 percent, by count, word ``container'' to
the fruit in any container may be more of the fruit in any sample may be more ``sample'' to be
than one standard size larger or smaller than one standard size larger or consistent with the
than the standard size for the count smaller than the standard size for the proposed sampling method
packed. count packed. for grade determination.
(e) Example of standard size grapefruit: No change. N/A.
The standard size grapefruit for a 64
count is that size grapefruit which will
pack tightly 64 grapefruit of uniform
size when packed according to the
approved and recognized method.
(f) In order to allow for variations, (f) In order to allow for variations, We propose to change the
incident to proper packing, not more incident to proper packing, not more word ``container'' to
than 5 percent of the packages in any than 5 percent of the samples in any ``sample'' to be
lot may not meet the requirements of lot may fail to meet the requirements consistent with the
standard pack. of standard pack. proposed sampling method
for grade determination.
``Standards for export.'' (a) Not more ``Standards for export.'' (a) Not more We propose to change the
than a total of 10 percent, by count, of than a total of 10 percent, by count, word ``container'' to
the grapefruit in any container may be of the grapefruit in any sample may be ``sample'' to be
soft, affected by decay, damaged by skin soft, affected by decay, damaged by consistent with the
breakdown, have broken skins which are skin breakdown, have broken skins which proposed sampling method
not healed, or be seriously damaged by are not healed, or be seriously damaged for grade determination.
dryness or mushy condition, except that: by dryness or mushy condition, except
that:
(1) Not more than one-half of 1 percent No change. N/A.4703
shall be allowed for grapefruit affected
by decay.
(2) Not more than 3 percent shall have No change. N/A.
broken skins which are not healed.
(3) Not more than 5 percent shall be No change. N/A.
soft.
(4) Not more than 5 percent shall be No change. N/A.
seriously damaged by dryness or mushy
condition.
(5) Not more than 5 percent shall be No change. N/A.
damaged by skin breakdown.
(b) Any lot of grapefruit shall be (b) Any lot of grapefruit shall be We propose to change the
considered as meeting the standards for considered as meeting the standards for word ``container'' to
export if the entire lot averages within export if the entire lot averages ``sample'' to be
the requirements specified: Provided, within the requirements specified: consistent with the
That no sample from the containers in Provided, That no sample from the proposed sampling method
any lot shall have more than double the containers in any lot shall have more for grade determination.
percentage specified for any one defect, than double the percentage specified
and that not more than a total of 10 for any one defect, and that not more
percent, by count, of the grapefruit in than a total of 10 percent, by count,
any container has any of the defects of the grapefruit in any sample has any
enumerated in the standards for export. of the defects enumerated in the
standards for export.
``Similar varietal characteristics'' No change. N/A.
means that the fruits in any container
are similar in color and type.
``Well colored'' means that the fruit is No change. N/A.
yellow in color, with not more than a
trace of green.
[[Page 32680]]
``Firm'' means that the fruit is not soft No change. N/A.
or noticeably wilted or flabby. The skin
may feel slightly springy or spongy.
``Well formed'' means that the fruit No change. N/A.
shows the normal shape characteristic of
the variety.
``Smooth'' means that the skin is of ``Smooth texture'' means that the skin We propose to change
fairly fine grain, the ``pebbling'' is is of fairly fine grain, the ``Smooth'' to ``Smooth
not pronounced, and any furrows ``pebbling'' is not pronounced, and any texture'' to make it
radiating from the stem end are short furrows radiating from the stem end are consistent with the other
and shallow. short and shallow. citrus standards.
``Fairly thin skinned'' means that the ``Fairly thin skinned'' means that the We propose to change the
skin thickness does not average more skin thickness does not average more size reference from ``100
than three-eighths of an inch, on a than \1/2\ of an inch, on a central size'' to ``4\1/8\
central cross section, in sizes 100 or cross section, on a grapefruit 4\1/8\ inches'' in diameter.''
smaller, or more than seven-sixteenths inches in diameter. This will provide a
of an inch in sizes larger than 100. standard measurement for
determining defects.
``Injury'' means any defect which more No change. N/A.
than slightly affects the appearance, or
edible or shipping quality of the fruit.
Any one of the following defects, or any
combination of defects, the seriousness
of which exceeds the maximum allowed for
any one defect, shall be considered as
injury:
(a) Sprayburn which changes the color to No change. N/A.
such an extent that the appearance of
the fruit is noticeably injured, or
which causes scarring that aggregates
more than one-half inch in diameter.
(b) Fumigation injury which noticeably No change. N/A.
detracts from the appearance of the
fruit, or which occurs as small, thinly
scattered spots over more than 10
percent of the fruit surface, or as
solid or depressed scarring which
aggregates more than one-half of an inch
in diameter.
(c) Exanthema which noticeably detracts No change. N/A.
from the appearance of the fruit, or
which occurs as small, thinly scattered
spots over more than 10 percent of the
fruit surface, or as solid scarring
which aggregates more than one-half of
an inch in diameter.
(d) Scars which are very rough or very No change. N/A.
deep; or scars which are very dark when
more than one-fourth of an inch in
diameter.
(e) Scars which are dark, rough, or deep No change. N/A.4703
and aggregate more than one-half of an
inch in diameter.
(f) Scars which are fairly light in No change. N/A.
color, slightly rough, or of slight
depth and aggregate more than 5 percent
of the fruit surface.
(g) Scars which are light in color, No change. N/A.
fairly smooth, with no depth and
aggregate more than 10 percent of the
fruit surface.
(i) Scale, when more than 5 medium to No change. N/A.
large California red or purple scale are
adjacent to the ``button'' at the stem
end, or scattered over the fruit, or any
scale which affects the appearance of
the fruit to a greater extent.
(j) Sunburn which appreciably changes the No change. N/A.
normal color or shape of the fruit, or
affects more than 10 percent of the
fruit surface.
(k) Green spots, oil spots This defect is currently
(oleocellosis) or other similar being scored based on the
injuries which are depressed or soft, ``general definition.'' We
or which have an aggregate area of more propose to add specific
than 2\1/2\ percent of the fruit scoring criteria for
surface, or which are green and more objective treatment of
than \1/4\ in number. this defect.
(l) Skin breakdown when exceeding that This defect is currently
of a circle \1/4\ inch in diameter. being scored based on the
``general definition.'' We
propose to add specific
scoring criteria for
objective treatment of
this defect.
(m) Bruising when segment walls are This defect is currently
collapsed, or albedo and juice sacs are being scored based on the
ruptured. ``general definition.'' We
propose to add specific
scoring criteria for
objective treatment of
this defect.
[[Page 32681]]
``Fairly well colored'' means that yellow No change. N/A.
color predominates on the fruit and that
the fruit is free from distinctly green
streaks and distinctly green blotches.
``Fairly smooth'' means that the skin ``Fairly smooth texture'' means that the We propose to change
does not feel noticeably rough or skin does not feel noticeably rough or ``Fairly smooth'' to
coarse. The size of the fruit should be coarse. The size of the fruit should be ``Fairly smooth texture''
considered in judging the texture, as considered in judging the texture, as to make it consistent with
large fruit is not usually as smooth as large fruit is not usually as smooth as the other citrus
the small. It is common for the fruit to the small. It is common for the fruit standards.
show larger and coarser ``pebbling'' on to show larger and coarser ``pebbling''
the stem end portion than on the blossom on the stem end portion than on the
end. Slight furrows or grooves which may blossom end. Slight furrows or grooves
be present on the stem end portion of which may be present on the stem end
the fruit shall not be considered as portion of the fruit shall not be
slightly rough unless they are of considered as slightly rough unless
sufficient depth, length, and number to they are of sufficient depth, length,
materially affect the appearance and and number to materially affect the
smoothness of the grapefruit. appearance and smoothness of the
grapefruit.
``Excessively thick skinned'' means that ``Excessively thick skinned'' means that We propose to change the
the skin thickness averages more than the skin thickness averages more than size reference from ``100
seven-sixteenths of an inch, on a \5/8\ of an inch, on a central cross size'' to ``4\1/8\
central cross section, in sizes 100 or section, on a grapefruit 4\1/8\ inches inches'' in diameter. This
smaller, or more than one-half of an in diameter. will provide a standard
inch in sizes larger than 100. measurement for
determining defects.
``Damage'' means any injury which No change. N/A.
materially affects the appearance, or
the edible or shipping quality of the
fruit. Any one of the following defects,
or any combination of defects, the
seriousness of which exceeds the maximum
allowed for any one defect, shall be
considered as damage:
(a) Dryness or mushy condition, when No change. N/A.
affecting all segments more than one-
fourth of an inch at the stem end, or
the equivalent of this amount by volume,
when occurring in other portions of the
fruit.
(b) Sprayburn which changes the color to No change. N/A.4703
such an extent that the appearance of
the fruit is materially injured, or
which causes scarring that aggregates
more than three-fourths of an inch in
diameter.
(c) Fumigation injury which materially No change. N/A.
detracts from the appearance of the
fruit, or which occurs as small, thinly
scattered spots over more than 25
percent of the fruit surface, or as
solid scarring or depressions which
aggregate more than three-fourths of an
inch in diameter.
(d) Exanthema which material detracts No change. N/A.
from the appearance of the fruit, or
which occurs as small, thinly scattered
spots over more than 25 percent of the
fruit surface, or as solid scarring,
that is not cracked, which aggregates
more than three-fourths of an inch in
diameter.
(e) Scars which are very deep; or scars No change. N/A.
which are very rough or very dark and
aggregate more than one-half of an inch
in diameter.
(f) Scars which are dark, rough or deep No change. N/A.
and aggregate more than three-fourths of
an inch in diameter.
(g) Scars which are fairly light in No change. N/A.
color, slightly rough, or of slight
depth and aggregate more than 10 percent
of the fruit surface.
(h) Scars which are light colored, fairly No change. N/A.
smooth, with no depth and aggregate more
than 15 percent of the fruit surface.
(i) Green spots which are depressed or (i) Green spots, oil spots We propose to score Green
soft, or more than seven in number, or (oleocellosis) or other similar spots and oil spots using
which aggregate more than 5 percent of injuries which are depressed or soft, the same criteria. These
the fruit surface. or which have an aggregate area of more are similar defects and
than 5 percent of the fruit surface, or scoring is comparable in
which are green and more than 7 in other citrus standards.
number.
[[Page 32682]]
(j) Scale, when more than 10 medium to No change. N/A.
large California red or purple scale are
adjacent to the ``button'' at the stem
end, or scattered over the fruit, or any
scale which affects the appearance of
the fruit to a greater extent.
(k) Sunburn which causes appreciable No change. N/A.
flattening of the fruit, drying or
darkening of the skin, or affects more
than 25 percent of the fruit surface.
(l) Skin breakdown when exceeding that This defect is currently
of a circle \3/8\ inch in diameter. being scored based on the
``general definition.'' We
propose to add specific
scoring criteria for
objective treatment of
this defect.
(m) Bruising when segment walls are This defect is currently
collapsed, or albedo and juice sacs are being scored based on the
ruptured. ``general definition.'' We
propose to add specific
scoring criteria for
objective treatment of
this defect.
``Slightly colored'' means that No change. N/A.
sufficient yellow color is distributed
over the fruit surface and, when blended
with the green color present, is
equivalent to 25 percent of full yellow
color characteristic of the variety.
``Fairly firm'' means that the fruit may No change. N/A.
be slightly soft but is not decidedly
flabby. The skin may be thick and
slightly puffy.
``Fairly well formed'' means that the No change. N/A.
fruit is not materially flattened,
materially pointed, extremely elongated,
or otherwise decidedly deformed.
``Decidedly rough'' means that the skin No change. N/A.
is materially rough, materially lumpy,
decidedly folded, or decidedly ridged.
``Serious damage'' means any injury which No change. N/A.4703
seriously affects the appearance, or the
edible or shipping quality of the fruit.
Any one of the following defects, or any
combination of defects, the seriousness
of which exceeds the maximum allowed for
any one defect; shall be considered as
serious damage:
(a) Dryness or mushy condition, when No change. N/A.
affecting all segments more than one-
half of an inch at the stem end, or the
equivalent of this amount, by volume,
when occurring in other portions of the
fruit.
(b) Sprayburn which changes the color to No change. N/A.
such an extent that the appearance of
the fruit is seriously injured, or which
causes scarring that aggregates more
than 10 percent of the fruit surface.
(c) Fumigation injury which occurs as No change. N/A.
small, thinly scattered spots over more
than one-half of the fruit surface, or
solid scarring of depressions which
aggregate more than 5 percent of the
fruit surface.
(d) Exanthema which occurs as small, No change. N/A.
thinly scattered spots over more than
one-half of the fruit surface, or solid
scarring that is not cracked, which
aggregates more than 5 percent of the
fruit surface.
(e) Scars which are very deep; or scars No change. N/A.
which are very rough or very dark and
aggregate more than one inch in
diameter.
(f) Scars which are dark, rough, or deep No change. N/A.
and aggregate more than 5 percent of the
fruit surface.
(g) Scars which are fairly light in No change. N/A.
color, slightly rough or of slight depth
and aggregate more than 15 percent of
the fruit surface.
(h) Scars which are light colored, fairly No change. N/A..
smooth, with no depth and aggregate more
than 25 percent of the fruit surface.
[[Page 32683]]
(i) Green spots which are soft or (i) Green spots, oil spots We propose to score Green
aggregate more than 2 inches in (oleocellosis) or other similar spots and oil spots using
diameter. injuries which are soft, or which have the same criteria. These
an aggregate area of more than 10 are similar defects and
percent of the fruit surface. scoring is comparable in
other citrus standards.
(j) Scale, when California red or purple No change. N/A.
scale is concentrated as a ring or
blotch, or which is more than thinly
scattered over the fruit surface, or any
scale which affects the appearance of
the fruit to a greater extent.
(k) Sunburn which causes decided No change. N/A.
flattening of the fruit, drying or dark
discoloration of the skin, or which
affects more than one-third of the fruit
surface.
(l) Skin breakdown when exceeding that This defect is currently
of a circle \5/8\ inch in diameter being scored based on the
``general definition.'' We
propose to add specific
scoring criteria for
objective treatment of
this defect.
(m) Bruising when segment walls are This defect is currently
collapsed, or albedo is ruptured and being scored based on the
juice sacs are ruptured. ``general definition.'' We
propose to add specific
scoring criteria for
objective treatment of
this defect.
``Slightly spongy'' means that the fruit No change. N/A.
is puffy or slightly wilted but not
decidedly flabby.
``Misshapen'' means that the fruit is No change. N/A.
materially flattened, materially
pointed, extremely elongated or
otherwise decidedly deformed.
``Very serious damage'' means any injury No change. N/A.
which very seriously affects the
appearance, or the edible or shipping
quality of the fruit. Any one of the
following defects, or any combination of
defects, the seriousness of which
exceeds the maximum allowed for any one
defect, shall be considered as very
serious damage:
(a) Sprayburn which seriously affects No change. N/A.4703
more than 25 percent of the fruit
surface.
(b) Fumigation injury which causes deep, No change. N/A.
rough, or dark scarring which aggregates
more than 25 percent of the fruit
surface.
(c) Exanthema which aggregates more than No change. N/A.
10 percent of the fruit surface or
causes serious cracks.
(d) Scars which are very dark, very No change. N/A.
rough, or very deep and aggregate more
than 10 percent of the fruit surface.
(e) Scars which are dark, rough or deep No change. N/A.
and aggregate more than 25 percent of
the fruit surface.
(f) Green spots which are badly sunken or (f) Green spots, oil spots We propose to score Green
soft. (oleocellosis) or other similar spots and oil spots using
injuries which are badly sunken or the same criteria. These
soft, or which have an aggregate area are similar defects and
of more than 25 percent of the fruit scoring is comparable in
surface. other citrus standards.
(g) Scale so numerous or large that the No change. N/A.
appearance of the fruit is very
seriously affected.
(h) Sunburn which seriously affects more No change. N/A.
than one-third of the fruit surface.
(i) Skin breakdown when exceeding that This defect is currently
of a circle 1\1/4\ inches in diameter. being scored based on the
``general definition.'' We
propose to add specific
scoring criteria for
objective treatment of
this defect.
(j) Bruising when fruit has been split This defect is currently
open, peel is badly watersoaked being scored based on the
following bruising or albedo is ``general definition.'' We
ruptured and juice sacs are ruptured propose to add specific
causing a mushy condition affecting all scoring criteria for
segments more than \3/4\ inch at objective treatment of
bruised area or the equivalent of this this defect.
amount, by volume, when affecting more
than one area on the fruit.
[[Page 32684]]
(k) Dryness or mushy condition, when We propose to change the
affecting all segments more than three- phrase ``free from serious
fourths of an inch at the stem end, or damage by dryness or mushy
the equivalent of this amount, by condition'' to ``free from
volume, when occurring in other very serious damage by
portions of the fruit. dryness or mushy
condition.'' In other
citrus standards, defects
scored against the U.S.
No. 3 grade are typically
``very serious damage.''
This change will make it
consistent with those
standards.
Note: All references in this standard to Currently, the standard
area, aggregating area, or length are does not state whether
based on a grapefruit 4\1/8\ inches in defects are based on a
diameter, allowing proportionately specific size fruit; or if
greater areas on larger fruit and greater defective areas
lesser areas on smaller fruit. are allowed on larger
fruit and lesser areas on
smaller fruit. Many fruit
and vegetable standards
contain this distinction.
To clarify the issue and
to standardize with other
fruit and vegetable
standards, we propose to
include this statement.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
4703United States Standards for Grades of Tangerines
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
``General.'' (a) The tolerances for the Delete. We propose to delete this
standards are on a container basis. section and add an
However, individual packages in any lot ``Application of
may vary from the specified tolerances Tolerances'' section after
as stated below, provided the averages ``Tolerances.'' This will
for the entire lot, based on sample maintain consistency with
inspection, are within the tolerances other standards.
specified.
(b) For packages which contain more than Delete. We propose to delete this
10 pounds and a tolerance of 10 percent section and add an
or more is provided, individual packages ``Application of
in any lot shall have not more than one Tolerances'' section after
and one-half times the tolerance ``Tolerances.'' This will
specified. For packages which contain maintain consistency with
more than 10 pounds and a tolerance of other standards.
less than 10 percent is provided,
individual packages in any lot shall
have not more than double the tolerance
specified except that at least one
decayed or very seriously damaged fruit
may be permitted in any package.
(c) For packages which contain 10 pounds Delete. We propose to delete this
or less, individual packages in any lot section and add an
are not restricted as to the percentage ``Application of
of defects except that not more than one Tolerance'' section after
fruit which is decayed or very seriously ``Tolerances.'' This will
damaged shall be allowed in any package. maintain consistency with
other standards.
``U.S. Fancy'' shall consist of ``U.S. Fancy'' shall consist of We propose to delete the
tangerines which are mature, firm, and tangerines which are mature, firm, and phrase ``free from soft
well formed; free from soft bruises, well formed; free from unhealed skin bruises'' and add ``free
bird pecks, unhealed skin breaks, and breaks, dryness or mushy condition, from injury by bruises''
decay; hard or dry skins and decay; to the listing of ``free
from injury'' defects. It
is consistent with other
standards to define
bruising separately under
the definitions for
injury, damage, serious
damage, and very serious
damage. We also propose to
delete ``free from bird
pecks.'' Advances in
agricultural techniques
have virtually eliminated
this defect. Also proposed
is the addition of the
``free from dryness or
mushy condition'' and
``hard or dry skins''
requirements. These
requirements are
consistent with those
contained in other citrus
standards.
free from damage by ammoniation, free from injury caused by ammoniation, We propose to delete the
creasing, dryness or mushy condition, bruising, creasing, green spots or oil term ``pitting'' and
green spots or oil spots, pitting, spots, skin breakdown, scale, replace it with the term
scale, sprouting, sprayburn, sunburn, sprouting, sprayburn, and sunburn, and ``skin breakdown.'' Skin
unsightly discoloration, buckskin, free from damage caused by buckskin, breakdown is a defect
melanose, scars, scab, dirt or other melanose, scars, scab, dirt or other included in other citrus
foreign materials, disease, insects, foreign materials, disease, insects, standards to encompass
mechanical or other means. mechanical or other means. several similarly
appearing defects,
including ``pitting.'' We
also propose to delete the
term ``unsightly
discoloration'' to
eliminate the confusion
with ``discoloration''.
The defect
``discoloration'' is
defined in Section
51.1785. No definition for
``unsightly
discoloration'' exists in
the standards.
[[Page 32685]]
(a) Each fruit in this grade shall be (a) Each fruit in this grade shall be We propose this change to
highly colored. well colored. be more consistent with
other citrus standards
containing this
requirement.
(b) In this grade not more than \1/10\ of No change. N/A.4703
the surface in the aggregate of each
fruit may have a light shade of brown
discoloration caused by rust mite, or an
equivalent in appearance to this amount
when the fruit is discolored by any
cause. (See ``Tolerances'')
``U.S. No. 1'' shall consist of ``U.S. No. 1'' shall consist of We propose to delete the
tangerines which are mature, firm, and tangerines which are mature, firm, and phrase ``free from soft
well formed; free from soft bruises, well formed; free from unhealed skin bruises'' and add ``free
bird pecks, unhealed skin breaks, and breaks, hard or dry skins, and decay; from damage by bruises''
decay; to the listing of ``free
from damage by'' defects.
It is consistent with
other standards to define
bruising separately under
the definitions for
injury, damage, serious
damage, and very serious
damage. We also propose to
delete the phrase ``free
from bird pecks.''
Advances in agricultural
techniques have virtually
eliminated this defect.
Also proposed is the
addition of the
requirement ``free from
hard or dry skins.'' This
requirement is consistent
with those contained in
other citrus standards.
free from damage by ammoniation, free from damage by ammoniation, We propose to delete the
creasing, dryness or mushy condition, bruising, creasing, dryness or mushy term ``pitting'' and
green spots or oil spots, pitting, condition, green spots or oil spots, replace it with the term
scale, sprouting, sprayburn, sunburn, skin breakdown, scale, sprouting, ``skin breakdown.'' Skin
unsightly discoloration, buckskin, sprayburn, sunburn, buckskin, melanose, breakdown is a defect
melanose, scars, scab, dirt or other scars, scab, dirt or other foreign included in other citrus
foreign materials, disease, insects, materials, disease, insects, mechanical standards to encompass
mechanical or other means. or other means. several similarly
appearing defects,
including ``pitting.'' We
also propose to delete the
term ``unsightly
discoloration'' to
eliminate the confusion
with ``discoloration''.
The defect
``discoloration'' is
defined in Section
51.1785. No definition for
``unsightly
discoloration'' exists in
the standards.
(a) Each fruit of this grade shall be No change. N/A.
fairly well colored.
(b) In this grade not more than one-third No change. N/A.
of the surface in the aggregate of each
fruit may have a light shade of brown
discoloration caused by rust mite, or an
equivalent in appearance to this amount
when the fruit is discolored by any
cause. (See ``Tolerances'')
``U.S. No. 1 Bronze.'' The requirements No change. N/A.
for this grade are the same as for U.S.
No. 1 except for discoloration. In this
grade at least 75 percent, by count, of
the fruit shall show some discoloration,
and more than 20 percent, by count, of
the fruit shall have more than one-third
of the surface of each fruit affected
with bronzed russeting: Provided, That
no discoloration that exceeds the amount
allowed in the U.S. 1 grade shall be
permitted unless such discoloration is
caused by thrip or wind scars, or rust
mite. (See ``Tolerances'')
``U.S. Combination'' consists of a We propose the addition of
combination of U.S. No. 1 and U.S. No. the Combination grade to
2 tangerines: Provided, That at least make it consistent with
40 percent, by count, of the tangerines other standards.
in each lot shall meet the requirements
of the U.S. No. 1 grade. (See
``Tolerances'')
[[Page 32686]]
``U.S. No. 2'' shall consist of ``U.S. No. 2'' shall consist of We propose to delete the
tangerines which are mature, fairly tangerines which are mature, fairly phrase ``free from soft
firm, and fairly well formed; free from firm, and fairly well formed; free from bruises'' and add ``free
soft bruises, bird pecks, unhealed skin unhealed skin breaks, hard or dry from serious damage by
breaks, and decay; skins, and decay; bruises'' to the listing
of ``free from serious
damage by'' defects. It is
consistent with other
standards to define
bruising separately under
the definitions for
injury, damage, serious
damage, and very serious
damage. We also propose to
delete the phrase ``free
from bird pecks.''
Advances in agricultural
techniques have virtually
eliminated this defect.
Also proposed is the
addition of the
requirement ``free from
hard or dry skins.'' This
requirement is consistent
with those contained in
other citrus
standards.4703
free from serious damage by ammoniation, free from serious damage by ammoniation, We propose to delete the
creasing, dryness or mushy condition, bruising, creasing, dryness or mushy term ``pitting'' and
green spots or oil spots, pitting, condition, green spots or oil spots, replace it with the term
scale, sprouting, sprayburn, sunburn, skin breakdown, scale, sprouting, ``skin breakdown.'' Skin
unsightly discoloration, buckskin, sprayburn, sunburn, buckskin, melanose, breakdown is a defect
melanose, scars, scab, dirt or other scars, scab, dirt or other foreign included in other citrus
foreign materials, disease, insects, materials, disease, insects, mechanical standards to encompass
mechanical or other means. or other means. several similarly
appearing defects,
including ``pitting.'' We
also propose to delete the
term ``unsightly
discoloration'' to
eliminate the confusion
with ``discoloration''.
The defect
``discoloration'' is
defined in Section
51.1785. No definition for
``unsightly
discoloration'' exists in
the standards.
(a) Each fruit of this grade shall be No change. N/A.
reasonably well colored.
(b) In this grade not more than two- No change. N/A.
thirds of the surface in the aggregate
of each fruit may be affected with light
brown discoloration, or may have the
equivalent to this amount in appearance
when the fruit has lighter or darker
shades of discoloration. (See
``Tolerances'')
``U.S. No 2. Russet.'' The requirements No change. N/A.
for this grade are the same as for U.S.
No. 2 except that more than 20 percent,
by count, of the fruits shall have in
excess of two-thirds of the surface in
the aggregate affected with light brown
discoloration. (See ``Tolerances'')
``U.S. No. 3'' shall consist of ``U.S. No. 3'' shall consist of We propose to delete the
tangerines which are mature, not flabby tangerines which are mature, not flabby phrase ``free from
and not seriously lumpy; which are free and not seriously lumpy; which are free unhealed bird pecks.''
from unhealed bird pecks, unhealed skin from unhealed skin breaks, hard or dry Advances in agricultural
breaks and decay; skins, and decay; practices have virtually
eliminated this defect. We
also propose to add the
phrase ``free from hard or
dry skins.'' This
requirement is consistent
with those contained in
other citrus standards.
free from very serious damage by bruises, free from very serious damage by We propose to delete the
ammoniation, creasing, dryness or mushy bruises, ammoniation, creasing, dryness term ``pitting'' and
condition, pitting, scale, sprouting, or mushy condition, oil spots or green replace it with the term
sprayburn, sunburn, unsightly spots, skin breakdown, scale, ``skin breakdown.'' Skin
discoloration, melanose, scars, scab, sprouting, sprayburn, sunburn, breakdown is a defect
dirt or other foreign materials, buckskin, melanose, scars, scab, dirt included in other citrus
disease, insects, mechanical or other or other foreign materials, disease, standards to encompass
means. (See ``Tolerances'') insects, mechanical or other means. several similarly
(See ``Tolerances'') appearing defects,
including ``pitting.'' We
also propose to delete the
term ``unsightly
discoloration'' to
eliminate the confusion
with ``discoloration''.
The defect
``discoloration'' is
defined in Section
51.1785. No definition for
``unsightly
discoloration'' exists in
the standards.
``Tolerances.'' In order to allow for ``Tolerances.'' In order to allow for The proposed addition of
variations incident to proper grading variations incident to proper grading the phrase ``a minimum 25
and handling in each of the foregoing and handling in each of the foregoing count sample'' establishes
grades, the tolerances set forth in the grades, the tolerances, by count, based a basis for uniform
U.S. Fancy, U.S. No. 1, U.S. No. 1 on a minimum 25 count sample, set forth sampling. Other citrus
Bronze, U.S. No. 2, U.S. No. 2 Russet, in the U.S. Fancy, U.S. No. 1, U.S. No. standards (Florida), at
and U.S. No. 3 are provided as 1 Bronze, U.S. Combination, U.S. No. 2, industry's request, have
specified. U.S. No. 2 Russet, and U.S. No. 3 are recently been changed to
provided as specified. include the minimum 25
count sample. This would
make the citrus standards
more uniform regarding
sampling. This change is
also consistent with the
industry's request.4703
[[Page 32687]]
``U.S. Fancy, U.S. No. 1, U.S. No. 1 ``U.S. Fancy, U.S. No. 1, U.S. No. 1 We propose to establish
Bronze, U.S. No. 2 and U.S. No. 2 Bronze, U.S. No. 2 and U.S. No. 2 separate ``Shipping
Russet.'' Not more than a total of 10 Russet.'' For defects at shipping Point'' tolerances to
percent, by count, of the fruit in any point. Not more than 10 percent, by standardize them with
container may be below the requirements count, of the tangerines in any lot may other fruit and vegetable
of the grade other than for fail to meet the requirements relating standards. A ``whole
discoloration but not more than 5 to discoloration. In addition, not more number'' decay tolerance
percent shall be allowed for very than 10 percent, by count, of the is also proposed, which is
serious damage other than by dryness or tangerines in any lot may fail to meet included in practically
mushy condition and not more than one- the remaining requirements of the all other fresh fruit and
half of 1 percent shall be allowed for specified grade, included in this vegetable grade standards.
decay at shipping point: Provided, That amount not more than 5 percent shall be The current decay
a total tolerance of not more than 3 allowed for defects causing very tolerance of ``not more
percent shall be allowed for decay en serious damage, included in this latter than one-half of 1 percent
route or at destination. In addition, amount not more than 1 percent for may be a confusing concept
not more than a total of 10 percent, by decay. to an industry which is
count, of the fruit in any container may accustomed to ``whole''
not meet the requirements relating to percentage numbers on
discoloration but not more than 2 inspection certificates.
percent shall be allowed for serious Normally, when dealing
damage by unsightly discoloration. with defect percentages
ending in fractional
amounts, AMS inspectors
``round up'' percentages
ending in .5 or more and
``round down'' those less
than .5. The current
citrus standards included
in this Notice are an
exception to this
procedure. Changing the
one-half of 1 percent
tolerance to 1 percent
will eliminate industry's
confusion on this issue
and mirror what is
currently contained in
many fruit and vegetable
standards. We have also re-
worded the entire section
for clarity.
``U.S. Fancy, U.S. No. 1, U.S. No. 1 We propose to establish
Bronze, U.S. No. 2 and U.S. No. 2 ``En Route or At
Russet.'' For defects en route or at Destination'' tolerances
destination. Not more than 10 percent, to be more consistent with
by count, of the tangerines in any lot other fruit and vegetable
may fail to meet the requirements standards. This proposal
relating to discoloration. In addition, includes adding separate
not more than 12 percent, by count, of tolerances for permanent
the tangerines in any lot may fail to defects; for any defects
meet the remaining requirements of the causing very serious
specified grade: Provided, that damage; and for total
included in this amount not more than defects. The decay
the following percentages shall be tolerance, which remains
allowed for defects listed: 10 percent at 3 percent, is re-worded
for fruit having permanent defects; or for clarity.
7 percent for defects causing very
serious damage, including therein not
more than 5 percent for very serious
damage by permanent defects and not
more than 3 percent for decay.
``U.S. No. 3.'' Not more than a total of ``U.S. No. 3.'' For defects at shipping We propose to establish
15 percent, by count, of the fruit in point. Not more than 10 percent, by separate tolerances at
any container may be below the count, of the tangerines in any lot may ``Shipping Point'' and
requirements of this grade but not more fail to meet the requirements of the ``En Route or at
than 5 percent shall be allowed for specified grade, included in this Destination'' to
defects other than dryness or mushy amount not more than 1 percent for standardize them with
condition, and not more than 1 percent decay. other fruit and vegetable
shall be allowed for decay at shipping standards. Also proposed
point: Provided, That a total tolerance is a total defects
of not more than 3 percent shall be tolerance of 10 percent at
allowed for decay en route or at shipping point. A 12
destination. percent total defects
tolerance and a 10 percent
permanent defects
tolerance en route or at
destination is also
proposed. These tolerances
are consistent with other
citrus standards. The
decay tolerances in this
remain unchanged.
``U.S. No. 3.'' For defects en route or 4703
at destination. Not more than 12
percent, by count, of the tangerines in
any lot may fail to meet the remaining
requirements of the specified grade:
Provided, that included in this amount
not more than the following percentages
shall be allowed for defects listed: 10
percent for fruit having permanent
defects; or not more than 3 percent for
decay.
[[Page 32688]]
``U.S. Combination grade.'' For defects We propose the addition of
at shipping point. Not more than 10 this grade to provide
percent, by count, of the tangerines in industry the option of
any lot may fail to meet the packing to a certified
requirements of the U.S. No. 2 grade combination grade. In this
relating to discoloration. In addition, ``new'' grade, the format
not more than 10 percent, by count, of and percentages are
the tangerines in any lot may fail to consistent with those
meet the remaining requirements of the found in other citrus
U.S. No. 2 grade, included in this standards. Separate
amount not more than 5 percent for very tolerances at ``Shipping
serious damage, included in this latter Point'' are included as
amount not more than 1 percent for well as a separate
decay. tolerance for very serious
damage and a 1 percent
decay tolerance.
``U.S. Combination grade.'' For defects We propose the addition of
en route or at destination. Not more this grade to provide
than 10 percent, by count, of the industry the option of
tangerines in any lot may fail to meet packing to a certified
the requirements of the U.S. No. 2 combination grade. In this
grade relating to discoloration. In ``new'' grade, the format
addition, not more than 12 percent, by and percentages are
count, of the tangerines in any lot may consistent with those
fail to meet the remaining requirements found in other citrus
of the U.S. No. 2 grade: Provided, that standards. Separate
included in this amount not more than tolerances ``En Route or
the following percentages shall be at Destination'' are
allowed for defects listed: 10 percent included as well as
for fruit having permanent defects; or separate permanent defects
7 percent for defects causing very tolerances, a tolerance
serious damage, including therein not for very serious damage
more than 5 percent for very serious and a 3 percent decay
damage by permanent defects, included tolerance.
in the latter amount not more than 3
percent for decay.
``U.S. Combination grade.'' For defects We propose the addition of
at shipping point and en route or at this section to make it
destination. No part of any tolerance consistent with other
shall be allowed to reduce for the lot fruit and vegetable
as a whole, the 40 percent of U.S. No. standards including those
1 tangerines required in the U.S. listed in this Notice. Use
Combination grade, but individual of the term ``sample'' is
samples may have not less than 30 continued in this section
percent of U.S. No. 1 required: to reflect the proposed
Provided, That the entire lot averages change from ``container''
within the percentage required. as listed throughout this
Notice.
``Application of tolerances.'' We propose the addition of
Individual samples, based on a minimum this section to be
25 count sample, are subject to the consistent with other
following limitations, unless otherwise fruit and vegetable
specified. Individual samples shall standards. It contains
have not more than one and one-half language and format
times a specified tolerance of 10 commonly found in most
percent or more, and not more than standards. This is also a
double a specified tolerance of less change of the ``General''
than 10 percent: Provided, that at section located at the
least one decayed fruit may be beginning of this standard
permitted in any sample: And provided and includes the phrase
further, that the averages for the ``minimum 25 count
entire lot are within the tolerances sample'' that is found
specified for the grade. throughout this Notice.
``Standard pack.'' (a) The tangerines in No Change. N/A.
each container shall be packed in
accordance with recognized methods. Each
container shall be well filled and
properly marked to indicate the size of
the fruit. When the figures used to
indicate size of the fruit vary from the
actual number of tangerines in the
container, as in the case of fractional
parts of boxes, the figures indicating
size shall be followed by the letter
``s'' or the word ``size,'' as, for
example, ``210s,'' or ``210 size.''
Containers which are not so marked shall
not be regarded as meeting requirements
of ``standard pack.''
(b) Fruit in each container shall be of a (b) Fruit in each sample shall be of a We propose to change the
size not less than the minimum diameters size not less than the minimum word ``container'' to
specified below for the various packs. diameters specified below for the ``sample'' to be
Packs other than those listed shall have various packs. Packs other than those consistent with the
a minimum size not less than specified listed shall have a minimum size not proposed sampling method
for the nearest count. less than specified for the nearest for grade
count. determination.4703
[[Page 32689]]
Diameter in inches: Diameter in inches:
Pack Minimum Pack Minimum
100...................................... 100.....................................
............ 2\15/16\ ............. 2\15/16\
120...................................... 120.....................................
............ 2\11/16\ ............. 2\11/16\
150...................................... 150.....................................
............ 2\8/16\ ............. 2\8/16\
176...................................... 176.....................................
............ 2\6/16\ ............. 2\6/16\
210...................................... 210.....................................
............ 2\4/16\ ............. 2\4/16\
246...................................... 246.....................................
............ 2\2/16\ ............. 2\2/16\
294...................................... 294.....................................
............ 2 ............. 2
(c) In order to allow for variations (c) In order to allow for variations We propose to change the
incident to proper sizing, not more than incident to proper sizing, not more word ``container'' to
10 percent, by count, of the fruit in than 10 percent, by count, of the fruit ``sample'' to be
any container may be below the minimum in any sample may be below the minimum consistent with the
size for the count as specified. size for the count as specified. proposed sampling method
for grade determination.
``Firm'' means that the flesh is not soft No change. N/A
and the fruit is not badly puffy, and
that the skin has not become materially
separated from the flesh of the
tangerine.
``Well formed'' means that the fruit has No change N/A.
the characteristic tangerine shape and
is not deformed.
``Injury'' means any defect which more We propose to add
than slightly affects the appearance, definitions of injury for
or edible or shipping quality of the the U.S. Fancy grade in an
fruit. Any one of the following effort to establish an
defects, or any combination of defects, objective scoring base. It
the seriousness of which exceeds the is consistent with other
maximum allowed for any one defect, fruit and vegetable
shall be considered as injury: standards, as well as the
citrus standards included
in this Notice, to provide
objective scoring criteria
whenever practicable.
(a) Ammoniation which does not occur as
light speck type;
(b) Creasing which is more than barely
visible, or which extends over more
than 20 percent of the fruit surface;
(c) Green spot or oil spots
(oleocellosis or similar injuries)
which are depressed or soft, or which
have an aggregate area of a circle more
than 3/8 inch in diameter, or which are
green and more than 4 in number;
(d) Skin breakdown when exceeding that
of a circle 1/8 inch in diameter;
(e) Sprayburn when causing the skin to
become hard, or when aggregating more
than a circle 3/8 inch in diameter;
(f) Sunburn when causing the skin to
become hard and affecting more than 10
percent of the fruit surface.
(g) Scale when medium or large and more
than 4 are present;
(h) Bruising when segment walls are
collapsed, or albedo is ruptured and
juice sacs are ruptured.
``Damage'' means any defect or blemish No change. N/A.
which more than slightly affects the
appearance, or edible or shipping
quality of the fruit. Any one of the
following defects, the seriousness of
which exceeds the maximum allowed for
any one defect shall be considered as
damage:
(a) Ammoniation, when not occurring as (a) Ammoniation, when not occurring as We propose to change this
speck-type similar to melanose: light speck type, or which occurs as definition to be more
Provided, That no ammoniation shall be small, thinly scattered spots over more consistent with other
permitted that detracts from the than 10 percent of the fruit surface, citrus standards.4703
appearance of the individual fruit to a or as solid scarring which aggregates
greater extent than the amount of more than one-fourth of an inch in
discoloration allowed for the grade. diameter.
(b) Creasing, when it materially affects (b) Creasing, when it materially weakens We propose to change this
the appearance or shipping quality of the skin, or extends over more than one- definition to be more
the fruit. third of the fruit surface. consistent with other
citrus standards.
(c) Dryness or mushy condition, when (c) Dryness or mushy condition when We propose to change this
mushy or distinctly dry to a depth of affecting all segments more than one- definition to be more
more than one-eighth inch in all eighth inch at stem end, or the consistent with other
segments at the stem end, or the equivalent of this amount, by volume, citrus standards.
equivalent of this amount, by volume, of when occurring in other portions of the
mushy condition or dryness when fruit.
occurring in any portion of the fruit.
[[Page 32690]]
(d) Green spots or oil spots, when the (d) Green spots or oil spots We propose to change this
appearance is affected to a greater (oleocellosis) or similar injuries definition to be more
extent than 10 green spots caused by which are depressed or soft, or which consistent with other
scale, each of which is approximately have an aggregate area of more than 5 citrus standards.
one-eighth inch in diameter. percent of the fruit surface, or which
are green and more than 10 in number;
(e) Pitting when materially affecting the (e) Skin breakdown when aggregating more We propose to delete the
appearance or shipping quality of the than a circle \1/4\ inch in diameter. term ``pitting'' and
individual fruit. replace it with ``skin
breakdown.'' Skin
breakdown is a defect
included in other citrus
standards to encompass
several similarly
appearing defects,
including ``pitting.'' We
also propose to include an
objective scoring guide
for this defect, rather
than retain the scoring
guide based on the
``general definition.''
(f) Scale, when occurring as a blotch No change. N/A.
which averages more than three-eighths
inch in diameter or any scale that
detracts from the appearance of the
individual fruit to a greater extent
than a three-eighths inch blotch.
``Blotch'' refers to actual scale and
not the discolored area caused by scale.
(g) Sprayburn, when causing the skin to (g) Sprayburn, when causing the skin to We propose to change this
become hard or when it materially become hard, or when aggregating more definition to be more
affects the appearance of the fruit. than 5 percent of the fruit surface. consistent with other
citrus standards.
(h) Sunburn, when causing the skin to (h) Sunburn, when causing the skin to We propose to change this
become hard or when it materially become hard and affecting more than 5 definition to be more
affects the appearance of the fruit. percent of the fruit surface. consistent with other
citrus standards.
(i) Bruising when segment walls are This defect is currently
collapsed, or albedo and juice sacs are being scored based on the
ruptured. ``general definition.'' We
propose to add specific
scoring criteria for
objective treatment of
this defect.
(i) Unsightly discoloration, when the Delete. We propose to delete the
color or the pattern, or a combination term ``unsightly
of color and pattern, causes the fruit discoloration'' to
to have an unattractive appearance. eliminate the confusion
with ``discoloration''.
The defect
``discoloration'' is
defined in Section
51.1785. No definition for
``unsightly
discoloration'' exists in
the standards.
(j) Buckskin, when it detracts from the (j) Buckskin when aggregating more than We propose to change this
appearance of the fruit to a greater 5 percent of the fruit surface. definition to be more
extent than the amount of discoloration consistent with other
allowed for the grade. citrus standards.
(k) Melanose, when not small smooth speck- No change. N/A.
type, or any speck-type that detracts
from the appearance of the fruit to a
greater extent than the amount of
discoloration allowed in the grade.
Melanose that exceeds the amount allowed
in the U.S. No. 1 grade is not permitted
in the U.S. No. 1 Bronze grade.
(l) Scars, when not smooth, or when (l) Scars, when deep or rough We propose to change this
causing any noticeable depression or aggregating more than a circle 1/4 inch definition to be more
when detracting from the appearance of in diameter; slightly rough with slight consistent with other
the fruit to a greater extent than the depth aggregating more than a circle 3/ citrus standards.
amount of discoloration allowed for the 4 inch in diameter; smooth or fairly
grade. smooth with slight depth aggregating
more than a circle 1-1/8 inches in
diameter.
(m) Scab, when not smooth, or when it (m) Scab, when it materially detracts We propose to change this
affects shape or when it detracts from from the shape or texture, or definition to be more
the appearance of the fruit to a greater aggregates more than 5 percent of the consistent with other
extent than the amount of discoloration fruit surface. citrus standards.4703
allowed for the grade. Scab injury that
exceeds the amount allowed in the U.S.
No. 1 grade is not permitted in the U.S.
No. 1 Bronze grade.
``Highly colored'' means that the ground ``Well colored'' means that the ground We propose to change this
color of each fruit is a deep tangerine color of each fruit is a deep tangerine definition to be more
color with practically no trace of color with practically no trace of consistent with other
yellow color.'' yellow color. citrus standards.
[[Page 32691]]
``Discoloration'' includes discoloration No change. N/A.
caused by rust mite, melanose, scars,
scab, or any other means. Shades of
discoloration which blend with the
ground color of the fruit may be allowed
on a larger area than that specified in
the grade for light brown discoloration,
and shades of discoloration which are
more in contrast with the ground color
shall be restricted to a lesser area,
provided no discoloration may affect the
appearance to a greater extent than the
amount light brown discoloration
specified for the grade. Tangerines
which show discoloration caused by
melanose, scab, or any cause other than
by thrip, or wind scars, or by rust mite
shall not be permitted in the U.S. No. 1
Bronze grade when such discoloration
exceeds the amount allowed in the U.S.
No. 1 grade. (See ``Bronzed Russeting'')
Fairly well colored'' means that each No change. N/A.
fruit may have not over one inch of
green color in the aggregate and the
remainder of the surface shall show a
good tangerine color with some portion
of the surface showing a reddish
tangerine blush.
``Bronzed russeting'' means russeting No change. N/A.
caused by thrip, or wind scars, or by
rust mite or similar russeting which is
not readily distinguishable from that
caused by melanose, scab, etc., are not
considered as ``bronzed russeting''
within the meaning of these standards
but are regarded as defects when they
exceed the amount permitted in the U.S.
No. 1 grade and are not permitted in the
U.S. No. 1 Bronze grade.
``Fairly firm'' means that the flesh may No change. N/A.
be slightly soft but is not bruised or
badly puffy, and that the skin has not
become seriously separated from the
flesh of the tangerine.
``Fairly well formed'' means that the No change. N/A.
fruit may not have the shape
characteristic of the variety but that
it is not badly deformed.
``Serious damage'' means any defect or No change. N/A.
blemish which seriously affects the
appearance, or edible or shipping
quality of the fruit. Any one of the
following defects, or any combination of
defects, the seriousness of which
exceeds the maximum allowed for any one
defect shall be considered as serious
damage:
(a) Ammoniation, when scars are cracked, No change. N/A.
or dark and aggregating more than one-
half inch in diameter or when light-
colored and aggregating more than 1 inch
in diameter.
(b) Creasing, when it causes the skin to (b) Creasing, when it seriously weakens We propose to change this
be seriously weakened. the skin, or extends over more than one- definition to be more
half of the fruit surface. consistent with other
citrus standards.
(c) Bruising when segment walls are This defect is currently
collapsed, or albedo and juice sacs are being scored based on the
ruptured. ``general definition.'' We
propose to add specific
scoring criteria for
objective treatment of
this defect.
(c) Dryness or mushy condition, when (d) Dryness or mushy condition when We propose to change this
mushy or distinctly dry to a depth of affecting all segments more than one- definition to be more
more than one-quarter inch in all quarter inch at stem end, or the consistent with other
segments at the stem end, or the equivalent of this amount, by volume, citrus standards. This
equivalent of this amount, by volume, of when occurring in other portions of the section is re-designated
mushy condition or dryness when fruit. ``(d)'' due to the
occurring in any portion of the fruit. addition of ``(c)
Bruising.''4703
(d) Green spots or oil spots, when the (e) Green spots or oil spots We propose to change this
appearance is affected to a greater (oleocellosis) or similar injuries definition to be more
extent than 25 green spots, caused by which are depressed or soft, or which consistent with other
scale, each of which is approximately have an aggregate area of more than 10 citrus standards. This
one-eighth inch in diameter. percent of the fruit surface. section is re-designated
``(e)'' due to the
addition of ``(c)
Bruising.''
[[Page 32692]]
(e) Pitting, when seriously affecting the (f) Skin breakdown, when aggregating We propose to delete the
appearance or shipping quality of the more than a circle \5/8\ inch in term ``pitting'' and
fruit. diameter. replace it with ``skin
breakdown.'' Skin
breakdown is a defect
included in other citrus
standards to encompass
several similarly
appearing defects,
including ``pitting.'' We
also propose to include an
objective scoring guide
for this defect, rather
than retain the scoring
guide based on the
``general definition.''
This section is re-
designated ``(f)'' due to
the addition of ``(c)
Bruising.''
(f) Scale, when occurring as a blotch (g) Scale, when occurring as a blotch This section is re-
which averages more than one-half inch which averages more than one-half inch designated ``(g)'' due to
in diameter, or any scale that detracts in diameter, or any scale that detracts the addition of ``(c)
from the appearance of the fruit to a from the appearance of the fruit to a Bruising.''
greater extent than a one-half inch greater extent than a one-half inch
blotch. ``Blotch'' refers to actual blotch. ``Blotch'' refers to actual
scale and not the discoloration caused scale and not the discoloration caused
by scale. by scale.
(g) Sprayburn, when it has caused the (h) Sprayburn, when causing the skin to We propose to change this
skin to become hard, or when it become hard, or when aggregating more definition to be more
seriously affects the appearance of the than 10 percent of the fruit surface. consistent with other
fruit. citrus standards. This
section is re-designated
``(h)'' due to the
addition of ``(c)
Bruising.''
(h) Sunburn, when it has caused the skin (i) Sunburn, when causing the skin to We propose to change this
to become hard, or when it seriously become hard and affecting more than 10 definition to be more
affects the appearance of the fruit. percent of the fruit surface. consistent with other
citrus standards. This
section is re-designated
``(i)'' due to the
addition of ``(c)
Bruising.''
(i) Unsightly discoloration when the Delete. We propose to delete the
color or the pattern, or a combination term ``unsightly
of both, causes the fruit to have a discoloration'' to
distinctly unattractive appearance. eliminate the confusion
with ``discoloration''.
The defect
``discoloration'' is
defined in Section
51.1785. No definition for
``unsightly
discoloration'' exists in
the standards.
(j) Buckskin, when it detracts from the (j) Buckskin when aggregating more than We propose to change this
appearance of the fruit to a greater 10 percent of the fruit surface. definition to be more
extent than the amount of discoloration consistent with other
allowed for the grade. citrus standards.
(k) Melanose, when badly caked and No change. N/A.
aggregating more than \1/2\ inch in
diameter or when lightly caked and
aggregating more than 1 inch in
diameter, or when unsightly or when it
detracts from the appearance of the
fruit to a greater extent than the
amount of discoloration allowed for the
grade.
(l) Scars, when not fairly smooth, or (l) Scars, when deep or rough We propose to change this
when causing any materially depressed aggregating more than a circle \1/2\ definition to be more
areas, or when detracting from the inch in diameter; slightly rough with consistent with other
appearance to a greater extent than the slight depth aggregating more than a citrus standards.
amount of discoloration allowed for the circle 1\1/8\ inches in diameter;
grade. Scars which are not fairly smooth or fairly smooth with slight
smooth, or which are materially depth aggregating more than 10 percent
depressed, are not permitted in either of the fruit surface.
U.S. No. 2 or U.S. No. 2 Russet grades.
(m) Scab, when not fairly smooth, or when (m) Scab, when it materially detracts We propose to change this
materially affects the shape of the from the shape or texture, or definition to be more
fruit, or when it detracts from the aggregates more than 10 percent of the consistent with other
appearance to a greater extent than the fruit surface. citrus standards.
maximum amount of discoloration allowed
for the grade.
``Reasonably well colored'' means that a No change. N/A.4703
good yellow or reddish tangerine color
shall predominate over the green color
on at least one-half of the fruit
surface in the aggregate, and that each
fruit shall show practically no lemon
color.
``Very serious damage'' means any defect No change. N/A.
or blemish which very seriously affects
the appearance, or edible or shipping
quality of the fruit. Any one of the
following defects, or any combination of
defects, the seriousness of which
exceeds the maximum allowed for any one
defect shall be considered as very
serious damage:
[[Page 32693]]
(a) Ammoniation, when scars are badly No change. N/A.
cracked, or when dark and aggregating
more than 1 inch in diameter, or when
light-colored and detracting from the
appearance of the fruit to a greater
extent than 1 inch of dark ammoniation.
(b) Creasing, when causing the skin to be (b) Creasing, when it very seriously We propose to change this
seriously weakened. weakens the skin, or extends over definition to be more
practically entire fruit surface. consistent with other
citrus standards.
(c) Dryness or mushy condition, when (c) Dryness or mushy condition when We propose to change this
mushy or distinctly dry to a depth of affecting all segments more than one- definition to be more
more than one-quarter inch in all half inch at stem end, or the consistent with other
segments at the stem end or the equivalent of this amount, by volume, citrus standards.
equivalent of this amount, by volume, of when occurring in other portions of the
mushy condition or dryness when fruit.
occurring in any portion of the fruit.
(d) Pitting, when it very seriously (d) Skin breakdown, when aggregating We propose to delete the
affects the appearance or the shipping more than 25 percent of the fruit term ``pitting'' and
quality of the fruit. surface. replace it with ``skin
breakdown.'' Skin
breakdown is a defect
included in other citrus
standards to encompass
several similarly
appearing defects,
including ``pitting.'' We
also propose to include an
objective scoring guide
for this defect, rather
than retain the scoring
guide based on the
``general definition.''
(e) Scale, when it very seriously affects (e) Scale, when aggregating more 25 We propose to change this
the appearance of the fruit. percent of the fruit surface. definition to be more
consistent with other
citrus standards.
(f) Sprayburn, when it very seriously (f) Sprayburn, when aggregating more We propose to change this
affects the appearance of the fruit. than 25 percent of the fruit surface. definition to be more
consistent with other
citrus standards.
(g) Sunburn, when it very seriously (g) Sunburn, when aggregating more than We propose to change this
affects the appearance of the fruit. 25 percent of the fruit surface. definition to be more
consistent with other
citrus standards.
(h) Unsightly discoloration, when the Delete. We propose to delete the
fruit has a very objectionable term ``unsightly
appearance caused by any means. The discoloration'' to
color or the pattern of the eliminate the confusion
discoloration, or a combination of both, with ``discoloration''.
or a combination of defects may cause The defect
the fruit to have a very unsightly ``discoloration'' is
appearance. defined in Section
51.1785. No definition for
``unsightly
discoloration'' exists in
the standards.
(i) Melanose, when caked to the extent No change. N/A.
that the appearance of the fruit is very
seriously affected.
(j) Scars, when so deep, rough, or so No change. N/A.
unsightly that the appearance of the
fruit is very seriously injured.
(k) Buckskin, when aggregating more than We propose to add this
25 percent of the fruit surface. definition to be more
consistent with other
citrus standards.
(l) Scab, when aggregating more than 25 We propose to add this
percent of fruit surface. definition to be more
consistent with other
citrus standards.
(m) Green spots or oil spots, when the We propose to add this
appearance aggregates more than 25 definition to be more
percent of the fruit surface. consistent with other
citrus standards.
(n) Bruising when fruit has been split We propose to add this
open, peel is badly watersoaked definition to be more
following bruising or albedo and juice consistent with other
sacs are ruptured causing a mushy citrus standards.
condition affecting all segments more
than \1/2\ inch at bruised area or the
equivalent of this amount, by volume,
when affecting more than one area on
the fruit.
Sec. 51.1793 Cull. A cull is a fruit No Change N/A.
which does not meet the requirements of
U.S. No. 3 grade.
Note: All references in this standard to In the current standard, it
area, aggregating area, or length are is unclear whether defects
based on a tangerine 2\1/2\ inches in are based on a specific
diameter, allowing proportionately size fruit, or if greater
greater areas on larger fruit and areas on larger fruit and
lesser areas on smaller fruit. lesser areas on smaller
fruit are allowed. We
propose the addition of
this statement to clarify
the issue. This procedure
is in place in most fruit
and vegetable
standards.4703
[[Page 32694]]
United States Standards for Grades of Lemons
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
``U.S. No. 1'' consists of lemons which ``U.S. No. 1'' consists of lemons which We propose to add the term
are firm, fairly well formed (unless are mature, firm, fairly well formed, ``mature'' to coincide
specified as well formed), reasonably fairly smooth, which are free from with the proposed deletion
smooth (unless specified as smooth), decay, contact spot, internal evidence of the juice content
which have stems which are properly of Alternaria development, unhealed requirements. Please refer
clipped, and which are free from decay, broken skins, hard or dry skins, to the section on Juice
contact spot, internal evidence of exanthema, growth cracks, internal Content found on page 104.
Alternaria development, unhealed broken decline (endoxerosis), red blotch, ``Mature'' is the accepted
skins, hard or dry skins, exanthema, membranous stain or other internal term used to describe a
growth cracks, internal decline discoloration, and free from damage stage of development
(endoxerosis), red blotch, membranous caused by bruises, dry or mushy desired by industry. This
stain or other internal discoloration, condition, scars, oil spots, scale, definition is consistent
and free from damage caused by bruises, sunburn, hollow core, peteca, scab, with other citrus
dry or mushy condition, scars, oil skin breakdown, melanose, dirt, or standards.
spots, scale, sunburn, hollow core, other foreign material, other disease,
peteca, scab, melanose, dirt, or other insects or other means.
foreign material, other disease, insects
or other means.
........................................ We propose to delete the
phrase ``unless specified
as well formed'', and to
delete the reference to
``stems which are properly
clipped.'' These terms are
obsolete and do not
reflect what is grown and
packed for today's
marketplace.
........................................ We propose to change the
term ``reasonably smooth
(unless specified as
smooth)'' to ``fairly
smooth'' to be consistent
with other standards.
Generally speaking, the
modifier ``fairly'' when
used in fruit and
vegetable standards,
denotes a more stringent
or higher requirement than
``reasonably.''
........................................ We also propose to add
``free from damage by skin
breakdown.'' This defect
is currently being scored
based on the ``general
definition'' and is not
specified in the current
standards.
(a) Color: The lemons are fairly well (a) Color: The lemons are fairly well We propose to delete the
colored (unless specified as well colored. (See ``Tolerances'') term ``unless specified as
colored): Provided, That any lot of well colored.'' Current
lemons which meets all the requirements industry practice is to
of this grade except those relating to pack at least fairly well
color may be designated as ``U.S. No. 1 colored fruit in all
Green'' if the lemons are of a full grades. We also propose to
green color, or as ``U.S. No. 1 Mixed delete the reference to
Color'' if the lemons fail to meet the ``U.S. No. 1 Green'' and
color requirements of either ``U.S. No. ``U.S. No. 1 Mixed
1'' or ``U.S. No. 1 Green.'' (See Color.'' These grades are
``Tolerances'') obsolete and no longer
packed by industry.
(b) Lemons have the juice content Delete. We propose this deletion
specified in ``Juice Content'' section. because it will no longer
be needed due to the
proposed addition of
``mature.'' Please refer
to the section on Juice
Content found on page 104.
``U.S. Export No. 1'' consists of lemons ``U.S. Export No. 1'' consists of lemons We propose to add the term
which are firm, fairly well formed, which are mature, firm, fairly well ``mature'' to coincide
reasonably smooth and which are free formed, fairly smooth and which are with the proposed deletion
from decay, contact spot, internal free from decay, contact spot, internal of the juice content
evidence of Alternaria development, evidence of Alternaria development, requirements. Please refer
unhealed broken skins, exanthema, growth unhealed broken skins, exanthema, to the section on Juice
cracks, internal discoloration and free growth cracks, internal discoloration Content found on page 104.
from damage caused by bruises and and free from damage caused by bruises ``Mature'' is the accepted
dryness or mushy condition. and dryness or mushy condition. term used to describe a
stage of development
desired by industry. This
definition is consistent
with other citrus
standards. We also propose
to change the term
``reasonably smooth'' to
``fairly smooth'' to be
consistent with other
standards. Generally
speaking, the modifier
``fairly'', when used in
fruit and vegetable
standards, denotes a more
stringent or higher
requirement than
``reasonably.''
(a) At least 50 percent of the lemons are (a) At least 50 percent of the lemons We propose to add ``free
free from damage caused by scars, oil are free from damage caused by scars, from damage by skin
spots, scale, sunburn, peteca, scab, oil spots, scale, sunburn, peteca, breakdown.'' This defect
melanose, dirt or other foreign scab, skin breakdown, melanose, dirt or is currently being scored
material, other disease, insects or other foreign material, other disease, based on the ``general
other means, and the remainder of the insects or other means, and the definition'' and is not
lemons are free from serious damage by remainder of the lemons are free from specified in the current
any cause. serious damage by any cause. standards.
(b) Color: Lemons are moderately well No change. N/A.
colored. (See ``Tolerances'')
[[Page 32695]]
(c) Lemons have a juice content of not Delete. We propose this deletion
less than 28 percent by volume. because it will no longer
be needed due to the
proposed addition of
``mature.'' Please refer
to the section on Juice
Content found on page 104.
``U.S. Combination'' consists of a ``U.S. Combination'' consists of a We have re-worded this
combination of U.S. No. 1 and U.S. No. 2 combination of U.S. No. 1 and U.S. No. section to include the
lemons: Provided, That at least 40 2 lemons: Provided, That at least 40 phrase ``* * * in each lot
percent, by count, of the lemons meet percent, by count, of the lemons in * * *'' to be consistent
the requirements of U.S. No. 1 grade. each lot shall meet the requirements of with other standards in
the U.S. No. 1 grade. (See this Notice.4703
``Tolerances'')
(a) Color: The lemons are fairly well (a) Color: The lemons are fairly well We propose to delete the
colored (unless specified as well colored. (See ``Tolerances'') term ``unless specified as
colored): Provided, That any lot of well colored.'' Current
lemons which meets all the requirements industry practice is to
of this grade except those relating to pack at least fairly well
color may be designated as ``U.S. colored fruit all grades.
Combination Green'' if the lemons are of We also propose to delete
a full green color, or as ``U.S. the reference to ``U.S.
Combination Mixed Color'' if the lemons Combination Green'' and
fail to meet the color requirements of ``U.S. Combination Mixed
either ``U.S. Combination'' or ``U.S. Color.'' These grades are
Combination Green.'' (See obsolete and no longer
``Tolerances'') packed by industry.
(b) Lemons have the juice content Delete. We propose this deletion
specified in ``Juice Content'' section. because it will no longer
be needed due to the
proposed addition of
``mature.'' Please refer
to the section on Juice
Content found on page 104.
``U.S. No. 2'' consists of lemons which ``U.S. No. 2'' consists of lemons which We propose to add the term
are fairly firm, which are reasonably are mature, fairly firm, which are ``mature'' to coincide
well formed and fairly smooth, which reasonably well formed and reasonably with the proposed deletion
have stems which are properly clipped, smooth, which are free from decay, of the juice content
and which are free from decay, contact contact spot, internal evidence of requirements. Please refer
spot, internal evidence of Alternaria Alternaria development, unhealed broken to the section on Juice
development, unhealed broken skins, hard skins, hard or dry skins, exanthema, Content found on page 104.
or dry skins, exanthema, internal internal decline (endoxerosis), and red ``Mature'' is the accepted
decline (endoxerosis), and red blotch, blotch, and free from serious damage term used to describe a
and free from serious damage caused by caused by bruises, membranous stain or stage of development
bruises, membranous stain or other other internal discoloration, dryness desired by industry. This
internal discoloration, dryness or mushy or mushy condition, scars, oil spots, definition is consistent
condition, scars, oil spots, scale, scale, sunburn, hollow core, peteca, with other citrus
sunburn, hollow core, peteca, growth growth cracks, scab, skin breakdown, standards.
cracks, scab, melanose, dirt or other melanose, dirt or other foreign
foreign material, other diseases, material, other diseases, insects or
insects or other means. other means.
........................................ We propose to change the
term ``fairly smooth'' to
``reasonably smooth'' to
be consistent with other
standards. Generally
speaking, the modifier
``fairly'' when used in
fruit and vegetable
standards, denotes a more
stringent or higher
requirement than
``reasonably.'' It is
consistent with other
standards to place the
less stringent requirement
in the lower grade.
........................................ We propose to delete the
reference to ``stems which
are properly clipped.''
This reference is obsolete
and does not reflect what
is packed for today's
marketplace.
........................................ We propose to add ``free
from serious damage by
skin breakdown.'' This
defect is currently being
scored based on the
``general definition'' and
is not specified in the
current standards.
(a) Color: The lemons are fairly well (a) Color: The lemons are fairly well We propose to delete the
colored (unless specified as well colored. (See ``Tolerances'') term ``unless specified as
colored): Provided, That any lot of well colored.'' Current
lemons which meets all of the above industry practice is to
requirements of this grade except those pack at least fairly well
relating to color may be designated as colored fruit in all
``U.S. No. 2 Green'' if the lemons are grades. We also propose to
of a full green color, or as ``U.S. No. delete the reference to
2 Mixed Color'' if the lemons fail to ``U.S. No. 2 Green'' and
meet the color requirements of either ``U.S. No. 2 Mixed
``U.S. No. 2'' or ``U.S. No. 2 Green.'' Color.'' These grades are
(See ``Tolerances'') obsolete and no longer
packed by industry.
(b) Lemons have the juice content Delete. We propose this deletion
specified in''Juice Content'' section. because it will no longer
be needed due to the
proposed addition of
``mature.'' Please refer
to the section on Juice
Content found on page 104.
[[Page 32696]]
``Unclassified'' consists of lemons which Delete. When changing or updating
have not been classified in accordance standards in recent years,
with any of the foregoing grades. The references to
term ``unclassified'' is not a grade ``Unclassified'' have been
within the meaning of these standards removed in an attempt to
but is provided as a designation to show eliminate the confusion
that no grade has been applied to the this term creates. People
lot. have incorrectly assumed
that ``Unclassified'' is
an actual grade name; it
is not. To avoid further
confusion, it is proposed
that all references to
this term be
eliminated.4703
``Tolerances.'' In order to allow for ``Tolerances.'' In order to allow for The proposed addition of
variations incident to proper grading variations incident to proper grading the phrase ``a minimum 25
and handling in each of the foregoing and handling in each of the foregoing count sample'' establishes
grades, the following tolerances, by grades, the following tolerances, by a basis for uniform
count, are provided as specified: count, based on a minimum 25 count sampling. Other citrus
sample, are provided as specified: standards (Florida), at
industry's request, have
recently been changed to
include the minimum 25
count sample. This would
make the citrus standards
more uniform regarding
sampling. This change is
also consistent with the
industry's request.
(a) U.S. No. 1 grade--(1) For defects. (a) U.S. No. 1 grade--(1) For defects at We propose to establish
Not more than 10 percent of the lemons shipping point. Not more than 10 separate ``Shipping
in any lot may fail to meet the percent, by count, of the lemons in any Point'' tolerances to be
requirements of this grade, but not more lot may fail to meet the requirements consistent with other
than one-half of this tolerance, or 5 relating to color. In addition, not fruit and vegetable
percent, shall be allowed for decay, more than 10 percent, by count, of the standards. A ``whole
contact spot, internal evidence of lemons in any lot may fail to meet the number'' decay tolerance
Alternaria development, internal decline remaining requirements of the grade, is also proposed, which is
(endoxerosis), unhealed broken skins, included in this amount not more than 5 included in practically
growth cracks, and other defects causing percent shall be allowed for defects all other fresh fruit and
serious damage, including not more than causing serious damage, included in vegetable grade standards.
one-tenth of this latter amount, or one- this latter amount not more than 1 The current decay
half of 1 percent, for lemons affected percent for decay. tolerance of ``not more
by decay at shipping point: Provided, than one-half of 1% may be
That an additional tolerance of 2\1/2\ a confusing concept to an
percent, or a total of not more than 3 industry which is
percent, shall be allowed for lemons accustomed to ``whole''
affected by decay en route or at percentage numbers on
destination. inspection certificates.
Normally, when dealing
with defect percentages
ending in fractional
amounts, AMS inspectors
``round up'' percentages
ending in .5 or more and
``round down'' those less
than .5. The current
citrus standards included
in this Notice are an
exception to this
procedure. Changing the
one-half of 1 percent
tolerance to 1 percent
will eliminate industry's
confusion on this issue
and mirror what is
currently contained in
many fruit and vegetable
standards. We have also re-
worded the entire section
for clarity.
(2) For color. Not more than 10 percent ``U.S. No. 1 grade.'' For defects en We propose to establish
of the lemons in any lot may fail to route or at destination. Not more than ``En Route or At
meet the requirements relating to color. 10 percent, by count, of the lemons in Destination'' tolerances
any lot may fail to meet the to be more consistent with
requirements relating to color. In other fruit and vegetable
addition, not more than 12 percent, by standards. This proposal
count, of the lemons in any lot may includes adding separate
fail to meet the remaining requirements tolerances for permanent
of the grade: Provided, that included defects; for any defects
in this amount not more than the causing serious damage;
following percentages shall be allowed and for total defects. The
for defects listed: 10 percent for decay tolerance, which
fruit having permanent defects; or 7 remains at 3 percent, is
percent for defects causing serious re-worded for clarity.
damage, including therein not more than
5 percent for serious damage by
permanent defects and not more than 3
percent for decay.
[[Page 32697]]
(b) U.S. No. 2 and U.S. Combination U.S. No. 2 grade--(1) For defects at We propose to establish
grades--(1) For defects. Not more than shipping point. Not more than 10 separate ``Shipping
10 percent of the lemons in any lot may percent, by count, of the lemons in any Point'' tolerances to be
fail to meet the requirements of the lot may fail to meet the requirements consistent with other
U.S. No. 2 grade, but not more than one- relating to color. in addition, not fruit and vegetable
half of this tolerance, or 5 percent, more than 10 percent, by count, of the standards A ``whole
shall be allowed for decay, contact lemons in any lot may fail to meet the number'' decay tolerance
spot, internal evidence of Alternaria remaining requirements of the grade, is also proposed, which is
development, and internal decline included in this amount not more than 5 included in practically
(endoxerosis), including not more than percent shall be allowed for decay, all other fresh fruit and
one-fifth of this latter amount, or 1 contact spot, internal evidence of vegetable grade standards.
percent, for lemons affected by decay at alternaria development, and internal The current decay
shipping point: Provided, That an decline (endoxerosis), included in this tolerance of ``not more
additional tolerance of 2 percent, or a latter amount not more than 1 percent than one-half of 1% may be
total of not more than 3 percent, shall for decay. a confusing concept to an
be allowed for lemons affected by decay industry which is
en route or at destination. accustomed to ``whole''
percentage numbers on
inspection certificates.
Normally, when dealing
with defect percentages
ending in fractional
amounts, AMS inspectors
``round up'' percentages
ending in .5 or more and
``round down'' those less
than .5. The current
citrus standards included
in this Notice are an
exception to this
procedure. changing the
one-half of 1 percent
tolerance to 1 percent
will eliminate industry's
confusion on this issue
and mirror what is
currently contained in
many fruit and vegetable
standards. We have also re-
worded the entire section
for clarity.4703
(2) For color. Not more than 10 percent ``U.S. No. 2 grade.'' For defects en We propose to establish
of the lemons in any lot may fail to route or at destination. Not more than ``En Route or At
meet the requirements relating to color. 10 percent, by count, of the lemons in Destination'' tolerances
any lot may fail to meet the to be consistent with
requirements relating to color. In other fruit and vegetable
addition, not more than 12 percent, by standards. This proposal
count, of the lemons in any lot may includes adding separate
fail to meet the remaining requirements tolerances for permanent
of the grade: Provided, that included defects and for total
in this amount not more than the defects. The decay
following percentages shall be allowed tolerance, which remains
for defects listed: 10 percent for at 3 percent, is re-worded
fruit having permanent defects; or not for clarity.
more than 7 percent shall be allowed
for decay, contact spot, internal
evidence of Alternaria development, and
internal decline (endoxerosis),
included in this latter amount, not
more than 3 percent for decay.
U.S. Combination grade. For defects at We propose to establish
shipping point. Not more than 10 separate ``Shipping
percent, by count, of the lemons in any Point'' tolerances to be
lot may fail to meet the requirements consistent with other
of the U.S. No. 2 grade relating to fruit and vegetable
color. In addition, not more than 10 standards. A ``whole
percent, by count, of the lemons in any number'' decay tolerance
lot may fail to meet the remaining is also proposed, which is
requirements of the U.S. No. 2 grade, included in practically
included in this amount not more than 5 all other fresh fruit and
percent shall be allowed for decay, vegetable grade standards.
contact spot, internal evidence of The current decay
Alternaria development, and internal tolerance of ``not more
decline (endoxerosis), included in this than one-half of 1% may be
latter amount not more than 1 percent a confusing concept to an
for decay. industry which is
accustomed to ``whole''
percentage numbers on
inspection certificates.
Normally, when dealing
with defect percentages
ending in fractional
amounts, AMS inspectors
``round up'' percentages
ending in .5 or more and
``round down'' those less
than .5. The current
citrus standards included
in this Notice are an
exception to this
procedure. Changing the
one-half of 1 percent
tolerance to 1 percent
will eliminate industry's
confusion on this issue
and mirror what is
currently contained in
many fruit and vegetable
standards. We have also re-
worded the entire section
for clarity.
[[Page 32698]]
``U.S. Combination grade.'' For defects We propose to establish
en route or at destination. Not more ``En Route or At
than 10 percent, by count, of the Destination'' tolerances
lemons in any lot may fail to meet the to be consistent with
requirements of the U.S. No. 2 grade other fruit and vegetable
relating to color. In addition, not standards. This proposal
more than 12 percent, by count, of the includes adding separate
lemons in any lot may fail to meet the tolerances for permanent
remaining requirements of the U.S. No. defects; for any defects
2 grade: Provided, that included in causing serious damage;
this amount not more than the following and for total defects. The
percentages shall be allowed for decay tolerance, which
defects listed: 10 percent for fruit remains at 3 percent, is
having permanent defects; or not more re-worded for clarity.
than 7 percent shall be allowed for
decay, contact spot, internal evidence
of Alternaria development, and internal
decline (endoxerosis), included in this
latter amount, not more than 3 percent
for decay.
(3) When applying the tolerance for U.S. ``U.S. Combination.'' For defects at We propose to re-word this
Combination grade individual packages shipping point and en route or at section to make it
may have not more than 10 percent less destination. No part of any tolerance consistent with other
than the percentage of U.S. No. 1 shall be allowed to reduce for the lot fruit and vegetable
required: Provided, That the entire lot as a whole, the 40 percent of U.S. No. standards including those
averages within the required percentage. 1 lemons required in the U.S. listed in this Notice.4703
Combination grade, but individual
samples may have not less than 30
percent of U.S. No. 1 required:
Provided, That the entire lot averages
within the percentage required.
(c) U.S. Export No. 1. (1) For defects: No change. N/A.
10 percent for lemons which fail to meet
the requirements of the grade: Provided,
That not more than the following
percentages of the defects enumerated
shall be allowed: 1 percent for decay; 3
percent for contact spot; 3 percent for
broken skins which are not healed; 3
percent for growth cracks; 3 percent for
internal evidence of Alternaria
development; 3 percent for internal
discoloration; 5 percent for soft; and,
5 percent for damage by dryness or mushy
condition.
(2) For color: 10 percent for lemons No change. N/A.
which fail to meet the requirements
relating for color.
(3) The contents of individual containers (3) The contents of samples may have not Use of the term ``sample''
may have not more than 10 percentage more than 10 percentage points less is used in this section to
points less than the percentage than the percentage specified to meet reflect the proposed
specified to meet the requirements in the requirements in the ``U.S. Export revision from
``U.S. Export No. 1 grade:'' Provided, No. 1 grade:'' Provided, That no sample ``container'' as listed
That no container shall have more than shall have more than double the throughout this Notice.
double the percentage specified for any percentage specified for any one of the
one of the defects enumerated in U.S. defects enumerated in U.S. Export No. 1
Export No. 1 tolerances for defects tolerances for defects section above.
section above.
``Juice content.'' Lemons in the U.S. No. Delete. We propose to delete all
1, U.S. Combination and U.S. No. 2 references to ``Juice
grades shall have a juice content of not Content.'' Due to advances
less than 30 percent, by volume, except in agricultural practices
when designated as ``U.S. No. 1 Green this is no longer a
for Export,'' U.S. Combination Green for concern. We propose to
Export,'' or ``U.S. No. 2 Green for substitute the term
Export.'' When so designated, the lemons ``Mature'' to define a
shall have a juice content not less than stage of desirable
28 percent, by volume. ripeness and
marketability. Use of this
term is consistent with
practically all fruit and
vegetable standards.
``Application of tolerances.'' (a) Except ``Application of tolerances.'' We propose to change the
when applying the tolerances for Individual samples, based on a minimum standards to include
``Condition Standards for Export,'' and 25 count sample, are subject to the minimum 25 count samples,
the tolerances set forth in the U.S. following limitations, unless otherwise not ``packages.'' This is
Export No. 1 defect tolerances, the specified. Individual samples shall consistent with the
contents of individual packages in the have not more than one and one-half recently-changed Florida
lot, based on sample inspection, are times a specified tolerance of 10 Citrus Standards.
subject to the following limitations: percent or more, and not more than Individual sample
Provided, That the averages for the double a specified tolerance of less tolerances are also
entire lot are within the tolerance than 10 percent: Provided, that at proposed to reflect the
specified for the grade: least one decayed fruit may be language and tolerances
permitted in any sample: And provided widely used in other fruit
further, that the averages for the and vegetable standards.
entire lot are within the tolerances
specified for the grade.
[[Page 32699]]
(1) For packages which contain more than Delete. We propose this deletion
10 pounds, and a tolerance of 10 percent because the reference to
or more is provided, individual packages various size package
in any lot shall have not more than one restrictions from the
and one-half times the tolerance current standard would no
specified. For packages which contain longer be valid with a
more than 10 pounds and a tolerance of minimum 25 count sample.
less than 10 percent is provided,
individual packages in any lot shall
have not more than double the tolerance
specified, except that at least one
decayed lemon may be permitted in any
package.
(2) For packages which contain 10 pounds Delete. We propose this deletion
or less, individual packages in the lot because the reference to
are not restricted as to the percentage various size package
of defects: Provided, That not more than restrictions from the
one lemon which is seriously damaged by current standard would no
dryness or mushy condition may be longer be valid with a
permitted in any package and, in minimum 25 count sample.
addition, en route or at destination not
more than 10 percent of the packages may
have more than one decayed lemon.
``Standard pack.'' (a) Lemons shall be ``Standard pack.'' (a) Lemons shall be We propose to delete the
fairly uniform in size and shall be fairly uniform in size and shall be reference to ``wrapped
packed in boxes or cartons and arranged packed in boxes or cartons and arranged fruit'' because the
according to the approved and recognized according to the approved and industry no longer packs
methods. Each wrapped fruit shall be recognized methods. fruit in this manner.4703
fairly well enclosed by its individual
wrapper.
(b) All such containers shall be tightly (b) All such containers shall be tightly We propose to delete the
packed as well filled but the contents packed as well filled but the contents reference to ``nailed
shall not show excessive or unnecessary shall not show excessive or unnecessary boxes'' because they are
bruising because of overfilled bruising because of overfilled no longer used by the
containers. When lemons are packed in containers. When packed in cartons each industry.
standard nailed boxes, each box shall container shall be at least level full
have a minimum bulge of 1\1/4\ inches; at time of packing.
when packed in cartons or in wirebound
boxes, each container shall be at least
level full at time of packing.
(c) ``Fairly uniform in size'' means that No change. N/A.
when lemons are packed for 165 carton
count or smaller size, or equivalent
sizes when packed in other containers,
not less than 90 percent, by count, of
the lemons in any container shall be
within a diameter range of four-
sixteenths inch; when packed for sizes
larger than 165 carton count, or
equivalent sizes packed in other
containers, not less then 90 percent, by
count, of the lemons in any container
shall be within a diameter range of six-
sixteenths inch.
(1) ``Diameter'' means the greatest No change. N/A.
dimension measured at right angles to a
line from stem to blossom end of the
fruit.
(d) In order to allow for variations No change. N/A.
incident to proper packing the following
tolerances are provided:
(1) 10 percent for wrapped fruit in any Delete. We propose to delete the
container which fails to meet the reference to ``wrapped
requirement pertaining to wrapping; and, fruit'' because the
industry no longer packs
fruit in this manner.
(2) 5 percent for containers in any lot (2) 5 percent for samples in any lot We propose to change the
which fail to meet the requirements for which fail to meet the requirements for word ``containers'' to
standard pack. standard pack. ``samples'' to be
consistent with the
proposed sampling method
for grade determination.
(b) In order to allow for variations (b) In order to allow for variations We propose to change the
incident to proper packing, not more incident to proper packing, not more word ``containers'' to
than 5 percent of the containers in any than 5 percent of the samples in any ``samples'' to be
lot may fail to meet the requirements of lot may fail to meet the requirements consistent with the
standard sizing and fill. of standard sizing and fill. proposed sampling method
for grade determination.
[[Page 32700]]
``Condition standards for export.'' (a) ``Condition standards for export.'' (a) We propose to change the
Not more than a total of 10 percent, by Not more than a total of 10 percent, by word ``container'' to
count, of the lemons in any container count, of the lemons in any sample may ``sample'' to be
may be soft, affected by decay or be soft, affected by decay or contact consistent with the
contact spot, or have broken skins which spot, or have broken skins which are proposed sampling method
are not healed, growth cracks, internal not healed, growth cracks, internal for grade determination.
evidence of Alternaria development, evidence of Alternaria development,
internal decline (endoxerosis), or internal decline (endoxerosis), or
serious damage by membranous stain or serious damage by membranous stain or
other internal discoloration, or dryness other internal discoloration, or
or mushy condition, except that not more dryness or mushy condition, except that
than the following percentages of the not more than the following percentages
defects enumerated shall be allowed: of the defects enumerated shall be
allowed:
(1) one-half of 1 percent for decay; (1) one-half of 1 percent for decay;
(2) 3 percent for contact spot; (2) 3 percent for contact spot;
(3) 3 percent for broken skins which are (3) 3 percent for broken skins which are
not healed; not healed;
(4) 3 percent for growth cracks; (4) 3 percent for growth cracks;
(5) 3 percent for internal evidence of
Alternaria development;
(6) 3 percent for internal decline
(endoxerosis);
(7) 5 percent for soft;
(8) 5 percent for serious damage by
membranous stain or other internal
discoloration; and,
(9) 5 percent for serious damage by No change. N/A.4703
dryness or mushy condition.
``(b) Any lot of lemons shall be (b) Any lot of lemons shall be We propose to change the
considered as meeting the condition considered as meeting the condition word ``container'' to
standards for export if not more than a standards for export if not more than a ``sample'' to be
total of 10 percent, by count, of the total of 10 percent, by count, of the consistent with the
lemons in any container have defects lemons in any sample have defects proposed sampling method
enumerated in the condition standards enumerated in the condition standards for grade determination.
for export: Provided, That no sample for export: Provided, That no sample
shall have more than double the shall have more than double the
percentage specified for any one of the percentage specified for any one of the
defects enumerated. defects enumerated.
``Firm'' means that the fruit does not No change. N/A.
yield more than slightly to moderate
pressure.
``Fairly well formed'' means that the No change. N/A.
fruit shows normal characteristic lemon
shape and is not materially flattened on
one side. Lemons having moderately
thickened necks at the stem end shall be
considered as fairly well formed unless
the appearance is materially affected.
``Well formed'' means that the fruit is No change. N/A.
typically normal in shape with well
centered stem and stylar ends.
``Reasonably smooth'' means that the ``Fairly smooth'' means that the We propose to change the
appearance of the lemon is not appearance of the lemon is not definition of ``Reasonably
materially affected by protrusions or materially affected by protrusions or smooth'' to ``Fairly
lumpiness of the skin or by grooves or lumpiness of the skin or by grooves or smooth'' to be consistent
furrows. Coarse pebbling is an furrows. Coarse pebbling is an with other fruit and
indication of good keeping quality and indication of good keeping quality and vegetable standards.
is not objectionable. is not objectionable. Generally speaking, the
modifier ``fairly'' when
used in fruit and
vegetable standards,
denotes a more stringent
or higher requirement than
``reasonably.''
``Smooth'' means that the skin is of No change. N/A.
fairly fine grain and that there are no
more than slight furrows radiating from
the stem end.
``Contact spot'' means an area on the No change. N/A.
lemon which bears evidence of having
been in contact with decay or mold.
``Internal evidence of Alternaria No change. N/A.
development'' includes red or brown
staining of the tissue under the button
in the core, or in the fibro-vascular
bundles.
``Membranous stain'' is a brown or dark No change. N/A.
discoloration of the walls of the fruit
segment.
[[Page 32701]]
``Damage'' means any specific defect No change. N/A.
described in this section; or an equally
objectionable variation of any one of
these defects, any other defect, or any
combination of defects, which materially
detracts from the appearance, or edible
or shipping quality of the fruit. The
following specific defects shall be
considered damage:
``(a) Dryness or mushy condition when No change. N/A.
affecting all segments of the fruit more
than one-fourth inch at the stem end, or
more than the equivalent of this amount,
by volume, when occurring in other
portions of the fruit;
``(b) Scars (including sprayburn and No change. N/A.
fumigation injury) which exceed the
following aggregate areas of different
types of scars, or a combination of two
or more types of scars the seriousness
of which exceeds the maximum allowed for
any one type;
``(1) Scars which are very dark and which No change. N/A.
have an aggregate area exceeding that of
a circle one-fourth inch in diameter;
``(2) Scars which are dark, rough or deep No change. N/A.
and which have an aggregate area
exceeding that of a circle one-half inch
in diameter;
``(3) Scars which are fairly light in No change. N/A.
color, slightly rough, or with slight
depth and which have an aggregate area
exceeding that of a circle 1 inch in
diameter; and,
``(4) Scars which are light in color, No change. N/A.
fairly smooth, with no depth and which
have an aggregate area of more than 20
percent of the fruit surface.
``(c) Oil spots (Oleocellosis or similar No change. N/A.4703
injuries) which are more than slightly
depressed, soft, or which have an
aggregate area exceeding that of a
circle one-half inch in diameter;
(d) Scale when more than ten medium to No change. N/A.
large California red or purple scale
adjacent to button at stem end or
scattered over fruit or any scale which
affects the appearance of the fruit to a
greater extent;
(e) Sunburn which causes appreciable No change. N/A.
flattening of the fruit, drying of the
skin, material change in color of the
skin, appreciable drying of the flesh
underneath the affected area or affects
more than 25 percent of the fruit
surface;
(f) Hollow core which causes the fruit to No change. N/A.
feel distinctly spongy; and,
(g) Peteca when more than two spots or No change. N/A.
when having an aggregate area exceeding
that of a circle one-fourth inch in
diameter.
Bruising when segment walls are This defect is currently
collapsed, or albedo and juice sacs are being scored based on the
ruptured. ``general definition.'' We
propose to add specific
scoring criteria for
objective treatment of
this defect.
Skin breakdown when exceeding that of a This defect is currently
circle \1/4\ inch in diameter. being scored based on the
``general definition.'' We
propose to add specific
scoring criteria for
objective treatment of
this defect.
``Fairly well colored'' means that the No change. N/A.
area of yellow color exceeds the area of
green color on the fruit.
``Well colored'' means that the fruit is No change. N/A.
yellow in color with not more than a
trace of green color. Fruit of a decided
bronze color shall not be considered
well colored.
``Fairly firm'' means that the fruit may No change. N/A.
yield to moderate pressure but is not
soft.
[[Page 32702]]
``Reasonably well formed'' means that the No change. N/A.
fruit is not decidedly flattened, does
not have a very long or large neck and
is not otherwise decidedly misshapen.
``Fairly smooth'' means that the skin is ``Reasonably smooth'' means that the We propose to change the
not badly folded, badly ridged, or very skin is not badly folded, badly ridged, definition of ``fairly
decidedly lumpy. or very decidedly lumpy. smooth'' to ``reasonably
smooth'' to be consistent
with other standards.
Generally speaking, the
modifier ``fairly,'' when
used in fruit and
vegetable standards,
denotes a more stringent
or higher requirement than
``reasonably.'' It is
consistent with other
standards to place the
less stringent requirement
in the lower grade.
``Serious damage'' means any specific No change. N/A.
defect described in this section; or an
equally objectionable variation of any
of these defects, any other defect, or
any combination of defects, which
seriously detracts from the appearance,
or the edible or shipping quality of the
fruit. The following specific defects
shall be considered as serious damage:
(a) Membranous stain, or other internal No change. N/A.
discoloration which seriously affects
the appearance of the cut fruit;
(b) Dryness or mushy condition when No change. N/A.
affecting all segments of the fruit more
than one-half inch at the stem end or
more than the equivalent of the amount,
by volume, when occurring in other
portions of the fruit;
(c) Scars (including sprayburn and No change. N/A.
fumigation injury) which exceed the
following aggregate area of different
types of scars, or a combination of two
or more types of scars the seriousness
of which exceeds the maximum allowed for
any one type:
(1) Scars which are very dark and which No change. N/A4703
have an aggregate area of more than 5
percent of the fruit surface;
(2) Scars which are dark, rough or deep, No change. N/A.
and which have an aggregate area of more
than 10 percent of the fruit surface;
(3) Scars which are fairly light in No change. N/A.
color, slightly rough or of slight
depth, and which have an aggregate area
of more than 25 percent of the fruit
surface; and,
(4) Scars which are light in color, No change. N/A.
fairly smooth, with no depth, and which
have an aggregate area of more than 50
percent of the fruit surface;
(d) Oil spots (Oleocellosis or similar No change. N/A.
injuries) which are soft, or which have
an aggregate area exceeding that of a
circle 1 inch in diameter;
(e) Scale when California red or purple No change. N/A.
scale is concentrated as a ring or
blotch, or more than thinly scattered
over the fruit surface, or any scale
which affects the appearance of the
fruit to a greater extent;
(f) Sunburn which causes decided No change. N/A.
flattening of the fruit, marked drying
or dark discoloration of the skin,
material drying of the flesh underneath
the affected area, or which affects more
than one-third of the fruit surface;
(g) Hollow core which causes the fruit to No change. N/A.
feel excessively spongy;
(h) Peteca when more than five small No change. N/A.
spots, or when having an aggregate area
exceeding that of a circle three-fourths
inch in diameter; and,
(i) Growth cracks that are leaking, gummy No change. N/A.
or not well healed.
[[Page 32703]]
Bruising when fruit has been split open, This defect is currently
peel is badly watersoaked following being scored based on the
bruising or albedo is ruptured causing ``general definition.'' We
a mushy condition affecting all propose to add specific
segments more than 1/2 inch at the scoring criteria for
bruised area or the equivalent of this objective treatment of
amount, by volume, when affecting more this defect.
than one area on the fruit.
Skin breakdown when exceeding that of a This defect is currently
circle 5/8 inch in diameter. being scored based on the
``general definition.'' We
propose to add specific
scoring criteria for
objective treatment of
this defect.
``Moderately well colored'' means that No change. N/A.
the area of greenish-yellow or yellow
color exceeds the area of green color on
the fruit.
Note: All references in this standard to In the current standard, it
area, aggregating area, or length are is unclear whether defects
based on a lemon 2 inches in diameter, are based on a specific
allowing proportionately greater areas size fruit, or if greater
on larger fruit and lesser areas on areas on larger fruit and
smaller fruit. lesser areas on smaller
fruit are allowed. We
propose the addition of
this statement to clarify
the issue. This procedure
is in place in most fruit
and vegetable standards.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Authority: 7 U.S.C. 1621-1627.
Dated: June 8, 1999.
Robert C. Keeney,
Deputy Administrator, Fruit and Vegetable Programs.
[FR Doc. 99-15290 Filed 6-16-99; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3410-02-P
