(104)

(105)

(106)

(107)

(108)

- 16 -

Growth Cracks: Deep or rough growth ¢racks are considered as
damaged but growth cracks which are amooth and shallow shall not be cone
sidered as damage if they do not materially affect the appearance of the
carrot. Specimens that have several growth cracks or very deep and lorg
cracks sufficient to seriously affect the appearance would be scored
against the U. S.No. 2 for Topped Carrots and against the restricted
tolerance for serious damage in the other carrot grades.

Mechanical Di : Mechanicel damage includes stock which is
bruised, cut or broken. 3 only a small portion of the tip is cut off,
broken off or bruised or a small portion of the crown cut off on topped
‘carrots and not sufficient to materially affect the appearance of the
carrot, it should not be scored as damaged. However, if any material
portion is bruised, broken or cut off sufficiently to damage the appear-
ance, it must be scored. While the term "mechanical damage" ig not fully
descriptive, it can be used in cases where there are small percentages of
cuts, bruises and broken carrots which can be grouped under this term
without giving the longer description that would be necessary if each
type of defect were enumerated.

Seedstems: Seedstems in carrots may be the result of volunteer
grovth from the previous crop or develop late in the season when tops are
inclined to make rank growth. Seedstem growth materially affects the
flavor’ and eating quality of the carrots and when readily noticeable, the
root should be scored against the U. 8: No. 1 grades. Any carrot showing
that the seedstem hag been removed should be scored, for the seedstem has
affected its "edible quality." Seedstems may also cause serious damage
to the carrots. .

Sunburn: Sunburn which causes a loss of more than 3%, by
weight, in the Bunched, Short-Trimmed Tops and Consumer Carrot Standards
or 5% in Topped Carrots Standards, shall be considered as damaged, ex-
cept that superficial light green color at the stem end which does not
materially affect the appearance of the root shall be permitted. The
superficial green or purple color at the. crown, which does not penetrate
into the carrot sufficiently to cause internal greening, should not be
counted in determining waste or damage. ‘In determining waste 3 the top
of the carrot should be cut off as in the ordinary preparation for use,
after which any additional cutting necessary to remove the green dis-
colored area should be considered in determining the percentage of waste.
Only thet portion of the carrot in which the green predominates over the
orange or yellow color should be considered as discoloration in determining
waste. Inspectors should ‘cut suspicious appearing carrots to determine
if greening extending into the cdre causes more waste than permitted by
the grade.

Ordinarily a cut ‘a half'inch below the top of the crow will
constitute from 3 to 5% waste, depending on the length and diameter of the
carrot. One long type’ carrot the 1/2 inch will be about 3%, and on the
shorter type, the 1/2 inch willbe about 5%. If the discoloration is con-
fined to one side, the equivalent of 1/2 ineh on both sides should be
permitted.


2
UNITED STATES STANDARDS FOR GRADES OF

CARROTS WITH SHORT TRIMMED TOPS?

Source: 19 FR 5203, Aug. 18, 1954, unless
otherwise noted. Redesignated at 42 FR
32514, June 27, 1977, and at 46 FR 63203,
Dec, 31, 1981.

Effective September 18, 1954

quads (b) Tolerances. In order to allow for

See. variations incident to proper grading

51.2485 Ay 8. No. 1. and handling the following tolerances

512400 U. B, Comm -shall be permitted:
‘UNCLASSIFIED: bye rr defects of oats, 10 percent,
1.21 ined. count, for carrot roots in any

51.2487 Unclase which fail to meet the requirements of

APFLICATION OF TOLERANCES the grade, other than for size: Provided,

51.2488 Application of tolerances, ‘That not more than one-half Stowe

area amount, or 5 percent,
STANDARD ° for defects causing serious damagé, in-
61.2489 Standard sizing. ‘cluding therein not more than 1 percent
DEFINITIONS for carrot roots affected by soft rot;

Bec. (2) For defects of leafstems. 10 per-

61.2400 Similar varietal characteristics. cent, by count, for carrots in any lot

orze, Pum. te which have leafstems which fail to meet

51.2403 Fairly well colored, the requirements of the grade, including

51.2494 Fairly smooth. therein not more than. 5 percent for
51.2495 Well formed. leafstems affected by decay;

51.2496 Damage. (3) For off-size roots. 5 percent, by

51.2497 Diameter. count, for carrot roots in any lot which

51.2498 Serious damage. are smaller than the ified minimum

AvrHonrrY: §§ 51.2485 to 51.2498 issued
‘under sec. 206, 60 Stat. 1000, 7 U. B. C. 1624.

GRADES

$ 51.2485 U.S. No.1. “U.S. No. 1”
consists of carrots of similar varietal
characteristics the roots of which are
firm, fairly clean, fairly well colored,
fairly smooth, well formed, and which are
free from soft rot and free from damage
caused by freezing, growth cracks, sun-
burn, pithiness, woodiness, internal dis-
coloration, oil spray, dry rot, other
disease, insects or mechanical or other
means. The carrots shall have leafstems
which are free from decay and free from
damage caused by freezing, seedstems,
yellowing or other discoloration, disease,
insects or mechanical or other means.
The leafstems shall be cut back to not
more than 4 inches in length.

(a) Size. Unless otherwise specified,
the diameter of each carrot shall be not
Jess than three-fourths inch.

1 Compliance with the provisions of these
standards shall not excuse failure to comply
with the provisions of the Federal Food, Drug
and Cosmetic Act, or with applicable State
laws and regulations.

diameter, and 10 percent, by count, for
carrot roots which are larger than any
‘ified maximum diameter; and,

(4) For off-length leafstems. 10 per-
cent, by count, for carrots in any lot
which have leafstems longer than the
specified maximum length.

$51.2486 U. S. Commercial. “U. 8.
Commercial” consists of carrots which
meet the requirements of U. 8. No. 1
except for the increased tolerance for
defects of the roots specified below:

(a) Tolerances. In order to allow for
variations incident to proper grading and
handling the following tolerances shall
be permitted:

(1) For defects of roots. 20 percent,
by count, for carrot roots in any lot
which fail to meet the requirements of
the grade, other than for size: Provided,
That not more than one-half of this
amount, or 10 percent, shall be allowed
for defects causing serious damage, in-
cluding therein not more than 1 percent
for carrot roots affected by soft rot;

(2) For defects of leafstems. 10 per-
cent, by count, for carrots in any lot
which hive leafstems which fail to meet
the requirements of the grade, including
therein not more than 5 percent for
leafstems affected by decay;



2

UNITED STATES STANDARDS FOR GRADES OF

TOPPED carrots!

Source: 30 FR 14519, Nov. 20, 1965, unless
otherwise noted. Redesignated at 42 FR
32514, June 27, 1977 and at 46 FR 63203,
Dec. 31, 1981.

Effective December 20, 1965

GRADES:

Bec.
61.2360 U.S. Extra No. 1.
51.2361 U.8.No. 1.
61.2362 U.S. No.1 Jumbo,
51.2363 U.S. No.2.

‘UNCLASSIFIED
51.2364 Unclassified.

‘TOLERANCES
51.2365 “Tolerances.

_ APPLICATION OF TOLERANCES
51.2366 Application of tolerances.
SAMPLE FoR GRADE DETERMINATION
61.2367 Sample for grade determination.
STANDARD SIZING

51.2368 Standard sizing.

DxFiniTIons
51.2369 Similar varietal characteristics.
61.2370 Well.trimmed.
61.2371 Firm.
61.2372 Clean.
61.2373 Fairly well colored,
51.2374 Fairly smooth.
51.2375 Well formed.
51.2376 Secondary new top growth.
51.2377 Damage.
51.2378 Diameter.
51.2379 Length.
61.2380 Fairly clean..
51.2381 Fairly well formed.
61.2382 Excessively rough:
51.2383 Serlously misshapen.
51.2384 Serious damage.

AvTHoRItTY: The provisions of this subpart

issued under secs. 203, 205, 60 Stat. 1087, as

amended, 1090 as amended; 7 U.S.C. 1622,
1624.

GRADES
§ 51.2360 U.S. Extra No. 1.

“U.S. Extra No. 1” consists of carrots
o, similar varietal characteristics which
ai > well trimmed, firm, clean, fairly well
colored, fairly smooth, well formed;

‘Compliance with the provisions of these
standards shall not excuse failure to comply
with the provisions of the Federal Food, Drug
and Cosmetic Act, or with applicable State
laws end regulations.

which are free from secondary new top
growth and soft rot, and free from dam-
age caused by freezing, growth cracks,
sunburn, pithiness, woodiness, internal
discoloration, oil spray, dry rot, other
disease, insects or other means. (See
§ 51.2365.)

(a) Size. The diameter of each carrot
is not less than % inch or more than
1% inches, and the length is not less than
5 inches. (See § 51.2365.)

§ 51.2361 U.S.No.1.

“U.S. No. 1” consists of carrots of
similar varietal characteristics which are
well trimmed, firm, fairly clean, fairly
well colored, fairly smooth, fairly well
formed; which are free from soft rot, and
free from damage caused by freezing,
growth cracks, sunburn, pithiness;
woodiness, internal discoloration, oil
spray, dry ‘rot, other disease, insects or
other means. (See § 51.2365.)

(a) Size. Unless otherwise specified,
the diameter of each carrot is not less
than % inch or more than 1% inches,
and the length is not less than 5 inches.
(See § 51.2365.)

§ 51.2362 U.S. No. E Jumbo.

“U.S. No. 1 Jumbo” consists of carrots
which meet all requirements of the U.S.
No. 1 grade except for size. (See
§ 51.2365.)

(a) Size. The diameter of each
carrot is not less than ‘1 inch or more
than 2% inches, and the length is not
less than 5 inches. (See § 51.2365.)

§ 51.2363 U.S. No.2.

“U.S. No. 2” consists of carrots of
similar varietal characteristics which are
well trimmed, firm, not excessively
rough, not seriously misshapen; which
are free from soft rot, and free from
serious damage caused by dirt, freezing,
growth cracks, sunburn, pithiness,
woodineéss, internal discoloration, oil
sptay, dry rot, other disease, insects or
other means. (See § 51.2365.)

a,

Sd


(64)
(65)

(66)

(67)

(68)

(69)

(70)

(1)

- 10 -

3. Uniformity in Sizing When Standard Bunches Certified.

Inspectors should not certify Standard Bunches unless specifi-
sally requested to do so by the applicant. In.that event, the facte per-
taining to Standard Bunches should be reported under the "Size" heading
on the certificate, but the actuel certification should be made under
the "Grade" heading. The portion of bunches complying or failing to
comply with the requirements of Standard Bunches may be reported under
the "Size" heading.

Requirements for Standard Bunches. Refer to the standards for
bunched carrots.

If bunches do not meet the weight requirement, or are not within
tolerance for ranges specified in the Standards, they must be reported as
small or irregular as the case may be, followed by the usual size
description. .

Most shippers want to put up bunches weighing not less than 1
to 1-1/4 pounds per bunch, also -each bunch to have carrots of approxi-
mately the same length. Bunches should be tied tightly so they will not
appear to be straggly or loose.

4, Count Per Bunch Upon Request.

‘ The number of carrots per bunch may be certified, along with
other information of size, when specifically requested by the applicant.
In reporting the count per bunch, the range in the number of carrots per
bunch along with a "mostly" should be shown. Exemple: "Range from 4 to
9, mostly 5 to 7 carrots per bunch.”

; 5. Number of Bunches Per Crate. Upon Request.

It is permissible to certify the number of bunches or the "dozen
bunches count per crate" upon request of the applicant along with the
other information of size, quality, condition and grade. If the appli-
cant is interested only in the number of bunches per crate, it will be
necessary to certify "Condition" also. The entire contents of several
erates should be examined to determine the accuracy of the statement:
“Conforms to dozen count" or other statement in reference to count of
bunches.

Exemples of Bunched Carrots Size Statements:

1. (U. S. No. 1, Standard Bunches.) Generally 3/4 to 2, mostly
1 to 1-7/8 inches in diameter. Off-size within tolerance. From & to 8,
mostly 5 to 7 carrots per bunch. Roots fairly uniform in bunches. Bunches
generally weigh from 1 to 2 pounds. Tops 16 to 20 inches in length.

2. (U. 8. No. 1) Generally 3/4 to 1-7/8, mostly 1 to 1-1/2
inches in diameter. Undersize within tolerance. Tops 14 to 18 inches in
length.


(126)

(126a)

(127)

(128)

(129)

(130)

(432)

(132)

Revised Marcw 10, 196% BN Hd.)
- 20 - Par. 126, Page 20

Market Inspection Instruct io:

Bunched and Toppec Carrots 2

Carrots With Short Trimmed Tops

March, 1956

tor

Fresh Cracks: "Fresh cracks" are unheaied, narrow, and usually
deep; they may occur or progress in transit as the result of Jarring
while the root is cold and brittle. Score as damage when the air crack is
more than: 1/5 (20%) the length of the carrot; 1/8 inch wide; or 1/4 inch
deep. Score as serious damage when more than: 1/2 (50%) the length of
the carrot; 1/4 inch wide; or 3/8 inch deep.

Carrots that show a combination of fresh cracks and other defects,
neither of which is sufficiently severe to score without the combination,
should be scored against the condition and reported under the "Condition"
heading as fresh cracks,

Freezing in) jury end Frozen Stock: All freezing injury or frozen
stock sh treated as a condition factor in the markets and reported
under this heading in the certificate. For a complete description of the

verious methods of reporting trensit freezing, refer to the Destination
Market Handbook.

New Growth: Wear the end of the storage season stock may
be encountered showing new top growth sufficient to cause damage even
though the roots may be firm. An occasional specimen showing new top
growbh.in excess of 1 inch in length would have very little effect upon
the general appearance of the lot. On the other hand, an appreciable
umount of the roots showing new top growth in excess.of 1 inch in
length would materially affect the appearance of the lot and should be
scored and treated as a condition factor, Individual specimens that
ere materially affected-should be stored as damage.

(5) De For a complete description of the various decays of carrots,
see viscetlaneous Publication No. 440, "Market Diseases of Fruits and
Vegetables. . :

a. bry rots such as Fusarium Rot or Black Rot ehould not be
reported with s rot. They should be scored on the damage of appear-
ance and waste under the general definition of damage or serious damage
as the case may be and scored against the tolerances for general defects.

bd. Soft rot must be reported separately frou other defects as
the gredes provide that carrots must be free from soft rot. If. no soft
rot is found, the certificate should state "no soft rot.” :

. The Bunched carrot, Carrots with Short Trimmed Tops and Consumer
Btandards grades. provide a 1% tolerance for soft rot affecting the roots
and | 5% tolerance for decay affecting the tops or leafstems. .

The Topped Carrot Standards, U. S. Extra No. 1 grade provides
@ tolerance of 1% for soft rot, however, the U. S. No. 1 and U. S. No. 2
Grades each provide a tolerance of 2% for soft rot.

In_ scoring and reporting decay of carrots, the inspector should report:

(A) Name, (B) Amount and (€) Degree of the decay. if the inspector cannot

nace the decay, it will be satisfactory to describe it. The most important

Cf
Ne


(3) For off-size roots. 5 percent, by
count, for carrot roots in any lot which
are smaller than the specified minimum
diameter and 10 percent, by count, for
carrot roots which are larger than any
specified maximum diameter; and,

(4) For off-length leafstems, 10 per-
cent, by court, for carrots in any lot
which have leafstems longer than the
specified maximum length.

‘UNCLASSIFIED

$51.2487 Unclassified., “Unclassi-
fied” consists of carrots which have not
been classified in accordance with either

classified” is not a grade within the
meaning of these standards but.is pro-
vided as a designation to show that no
grade has been applied to the lot.

APPLICATION OF TOLERANCES.

$51.2488 Application of tolerances.
(a) The contents of individual packages
in the lot, based on sample inspection,
are subject to the following limitations,
provided the averages for the entire lot
are: within the tolerances specified for
the grade:

(1) _For packages which contain more
than 5 pounds and a tolerance of 10 per-
cent or more is provided, individual
packages in any lot shall have not more
than one and one-half

of less than 10 percent is provided, indi-
vidual packages in any lot shall have not
more than double the tolerance specified
except that at least one defective speci-
men shall be permitted in a package;

(2) For packages which contain 5
Pounds or less, individual packages in
any lot are not restricted as.to the per-
centage of defects: Provided, That not
more than one carrot which is frozen or
affected by soft rot may be permitted in
any package.

STANDARD SIZING

§ 51.2489 Standard sizing.
rots in packages of 2 pounds or less may
be certified as “Standard Sizing”, pro-
vided the variation in diameter of the
carrots in any individual package is not
more than three-eighths inch and the
variation in length is not more than
2% inches.

(b) Not more than 20 percent of the
packages in any lot may contain carrots
which fail to meet thé requirements for
“Standard Sizing”.

DEFINITIONS

$51.2490 Similar varietal character-
istics. “Similar varietal characteristics”
means that the carrots in any lot are of
the same general type. For example,
carrots with.a short, but blunt growth,
like the Oxheart variety, shall not be
mixed with Jong or half{-long carrots, like
the Imperator or Danvers varieties.

§$51.2491. Firm. “Firm” means that
the carrot is not soft, flabby or shriveled.

§ 51.2492 Fairly clean. “Fairly clean”
means that the individual carrot is rea-
sonably free from dirt, stain or other
foreign matter and that the general ap-
pearance of the carrots in the lot is not
more than slightly affected.

$ 51.2493 Fairly well colored, “Fairly
well colored” means that the carrot has
an orange, orange red, or orange scarlet
color, but not a pale orange or distinct
yellow color.

$51.2494 Fairly smooth. “Fairly
smooth” means that the carrot is not |
rough, ridged, or covered with secondary
rootlets to the extent that the appear-
ance is materially affected.

§ 51.2495 Well formed. “Well formed”
means that the carrot is not forked, or
misshapen to the extent that the appear-
ance is more-than slightly affected.

$51.2496 Damage. “Damage” means
any defect which materially affects the
appearance, or the edible or shipping
quality of the individual carrot root or
the general appearance of the carrot
roots in the container, or causes a loss
of more than 3 percent, by weight, in the
ordinary preparation for use, or which
materially affects the appearance or
shipping quality of the leafstems. Any
one of the following defects, or any com-
bination of defects, the seriousness of
which exceeds.the maximum allowed for
any one defect, shall be considered as
damage:

(a) Growth cracks which are not
shallow or not smcoth, or which mate-
rially affect the appearance of the
carrot;

(b) Sunburn which causes a loss of
more than 3 percent, by weight, in the
ordinary preparation for use, except that
superficial light green color at the stem
end which does not materially affect
the appearance of the root shall be per-
mitted; and,

(c) Yellowing or other discoloration
or injury to the leafstems when the
appearance of the leafstems is materially
affected.


UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE

FRUIT AND VEGETABLE DIVISION

PRODUCTION AREAS

Carrots are important in terminal markets throughout the year.
Most carrots are marketed with tops removed, either in consumer size
film bags, in large film bags or in open mesh bags. Some of the
carrot crop is marketed bunched with tops attached. A small part of
the crop is marketed with short trimmed tops.

Many carrots are produced seasonally in areas near terminal
markets, however, the heavy volume of shipments are from Califomia,
Avcizona and Texas and occur mostly when local supplies near the cities
are light or are out of season. A substantial volume of carrots is
also produced in Michigan, New York, Colorado, New Mexico and a few
other states.

NOTE SHEET AND CERTIFICATE

Score Sheet for Topped Carrots: The headings for size of sample,
soft rot, grade defects, diameter, length, firmness, shape, cleanness,

etc. should be used on the note sheet for topped carrots similar to
those for other root crops.

Score Sheet for Bunched and Short Trimmed Carrots: A careful
record should be kept on the score sheet under appropriate headings

for each sample examined. The following example illustrates a
complete note sheet for bunched carrots.

1/ Portions of these Inspection Instructions pertaining to topped

carrots are superseded by Topped Carrots - Market Inspection
Instructions. issued April 1966.

REPRINTED DECEMBER 2007

ue


(b) In order to allow for variations
incident to proper bunching not more
than 10 percent, by count, of the
bunches may fail to meet the require-
ments for “standard bunches.”

DEFINITIONS

§ 2851.2461 Similar varietal characteris-
tics.

“Similar varietal characteristics”
means that the carrots in any lot are
of. the same general type. For exam-
ple, carrots with a short, but blunt
growth, like the Oxheart variety, shall
not be mixed with long or half-long
carrots, like the Imperator or Danvers
varieties.

$2851.2462 Firm.

“Firm” means that the carrot is not
soft, flabby, or shriveled.

§ 2851.2463 Fairly clean. |

“Fairly clean” means that the indi-
vidual carrot is reasonably free from
dirt, stain or other foreign matter and
that the general appearance of the
carrots in the lot is not more than
slightly affected. -

§ 2851.2464 Fairly well colored.

“Fairly well colored” means that the
carrot has an orange, orange red, or
orange scarlet color, but not a pale
orange or distinct yellow color.

§ 2851.2465 Fairly smooth.

“Fairly smooth” means that the
carrot is not rough, ridged, or covered
with secondary rootlets to the extent
that the appearance is materially af-
fected.

§ 2851.2466 Well formed.

“Well formed” means that the
carrot is not forked, or misshapen to
the extent that the appearance is
more than slightly affected.

$ 2851.2467 Damage.

“Damage” means any defect which
materially affects the appearance, or

the edible or shipping quality of the
individual carrot root, or the general
appearance of the carrot roots in the
container, or causes a loss of more
than 3 percent, by weight, in the ordi-
nary preparation for use, or which ma-
terially affects the appearance or ship-
ping quality of the tops. Any one of
the following defects, or any combina-
tion of defects, the seriousness of
which exceeds the maximum allowed
for any one defect, shall be considered

as damage:

(a) Growth cracks which are not
shallow or not smooth, or which mate-
rially affect the appearance of the
carrot;

(b) Sunburn which causes a loss of
more than 3 percent, by weight, in the
ordinary preparation for use, except
that superficial light green color at
the stem end which does not material-

“ly affect the appearance of the root

shall be permitted; and,

(c) Yellowing or other discoloration
or injury to the tops when the appear-
ance of the bunch is materially affect-
ed. The appearance of the individual
bunch shall be considered materially
affected when the tops are trimmed to
the extent that only a relatively few
leaves remain. The appearance of
bunches with tops having slight discol-
oration such as yellowing, browning or
other abnormal color affecting a few
leaflets shall not be considered materi-
ally affected if the tops as a whole
show a predominantly normal green
color.

§ 2851.2468 Fresh.

“Fresh” means that the tops are not
badly wilted.

$ 2851.2469 Full tops.

“Full tops” means that the leafstems
have not been cut back, but dried or
damaged leaves or leafstems may have
been removed.


Revised, February 1993, HU-118-4(a)
Page 17, Paragraph 112, Bunched and Topped Carrots
and Carrots with Short Trimmed Tops, Market
Inspection Instructions, March 1956

-17-

Pithiness: Pithiness is probably the result of unfavorable growing conditions or frost (109)
injury resulting in the texture of the roots being fibrous and spongy. In order to determine
pithiness the roots that show indication of sponginess should be cut or broken so a cross section
may be viewed, as well as observing the crispness of the carrot while cutting or breaking. Roots
that are definitely spongy and porous should be scored as damage.

110)
Woodiness: Carrots which have been growing for a long time often develop woody 9)
cores. Carrots that are planted in the Fall and harvested in the Spring are more apt to show this
condition. Woody cores are very tough and fibrous. A test for determining woody cores is to cut
the carrot at right angles to its longitudinal axis with a sharp knife. If the core is woody to the
extent that the knife will require appreciably more force to cut it than is required to cut the
surrounding layer of flesh it is usually woody enough to score. If any tissues are woody enough to
score as damage they usually will be sufficiently woody to score as serious damage.

Bacterial Blight: Bacterial Blight affects roots, leaves, flower stalks and flower heads of (111)
carrots in the field. On the leaves, it will appear as irregular necrotic spots and on the stems and
petioles as brownish streaks. These types of injury are scored on the basis of tops “free from
damage." On the roots it appears as constrictions where the infection has been earlier. Again, it
may appear as narrow bands of brown or black, later to become raised or scabby and then coalesce.
These types are scored on the basis of appearance and waste, but chiefly on appearance, under the
definition of damage. When scored as defects on the roots these injuries are called “blight scars."

RAKK

Oil Spray: Oil spray damage may occur when fields are sprayed with an oil spray for (112)
weed control. If the application of oil spray is made while the carrots are very young, no damage
will result. To determine oil damage, observe the carrot(s) for signs of oil residue. If the oil
residue is readily noticeable, the carrot(s) should be scored against all grades. Make no attempt to
certify such a lot until advice has been received from your supervisor.

RRRK

Excessively Straggly or Ragged Tops: Occasionally, in the bunching process it is (113)
necessary to trim off so many brown, or otherwise discolored leaves and leafstems that it gives
the bunch an excessively straggly or ragged appearance. On account of the wide variation in size,
number of leaves, and length of tops, it is impossible to state a minimum number of leaves that each
individual carrot must have to meet the minimum requirements of damage by any cause to the
bunch. If the tops have been trimmed to the extent that there are a number of bare leaf stems with
very few full leaves remaining, resulting in the bunch having ,


3.

Condit ion:
Grade:

Products:

Quality:

Condition:
Grade:

Size:

Quality:

Condition,

Grade:

23 -

Roote are firm. Less than 1% decay, Watery Soft Rot
mostly in early stages affecting tips of roots.

Fails to grade U. S. No. 1 on account of grade defects
in excess of tolerance.

Topped CARROTS in film bags branded "Queen Brand,
Salinas, Calif., 16 oze. net." Manifested as 500
cartons each containing 24 film bags.

xxx
xxx

Diameter generally 1 to 1-1/2 inches; length 6 to 10,
mostly 7 to 9 inches. Undersize within tolerance.
Carrots meet requirements of Standard Sizing.

Clean, well | formed, smooth. Grade defects well within
tolerance.

Firm. No decay.
U. S. No. 1, Standard Sizing.
BUNCHED_ CARROTS

Roots from 3/4 to 2, mostly 1 to 1-1/2 inches in diameter.
Average 5% under 1 inch. Full tops 16 to 24 inches in
length with less than 25% over 20 inches.

Roots are clean, generally fairly well colored, smooth to
fairly smooth, and generally well formed. Grade defects
from 2 to 12%, average 8% consisting of misshapen,

poorly colored and rodent damage.

In all crates next each sidewall and bunker wall and in
all floor layer crates stock next exposed portions of
crates next side and bunker walls and next floor racks is
frozen from 2 inches into crates in top layer to 12 inches
in bottom layer crates next sidewalls and up from racks
affecting tops and some roots and so located as to indi-
cate freezing occurred in car. Remainder.of roots firm.
Remainder tops fresh and show good green color. No decay.

Now faile to grade U. S. No. 1, only account of frozen.
stock.

(150)


-19 -

Examples:

1. From 5 to 40f, average approximately 20% roots, scattered
through packs, are flabby and wilted. :

2. In most samples none, in some crates adjacent. sidewalls 3 to
15% roots next bottoms of crates are flabby and wilted.

(2) Freshness of Tops: "Fresh" means that the tops ere not badly wilted.
“pairly fresh” means that the tops are not fresh, but have a fairly fresh

appearance.

(3) Color of Tope: The color of tops refers to the color of the leaves
and not the leaf stems. In describing the normal color of the tops, the
following terms should be used:

“Good green color" means that the leaves show a good bright
shade of green color.

“Light green color" means that the leaves show a light shade
of green color.

(4) Other Condition Defects:

Discoloration of Tops of Bunched Carrots: Discoloration of tcps
includes dark discoloration, which may, be caused by bruising, watersoaked
condition, or freezing damage to the tops, as well as to brow or yellow
discoloration. In scoring discoloration of the tops, the bunch is the
unit. Individual carrots cannot be scored. If there ie sufficient dis-
coloration to materially affect the appearance of the bunch, the bunch
should be scored as a unit under a separate heading on the back of the
note sheet. Since there is a separate tolerance of 10% for damaged tops,
the lot as a whole will not be considered as having damaged tops if not
over 10% of the bunches are so damaged.

While the tpps are not used for food, the market value, to a
large extent, is based upon the general appearance of the tops. Inspec-
tors, therefore, should not become technical; on the other hand, bunches
that show decidedly brown, black or yellow leaves in sufficient quantity
to materially affect the appearance of the bunch, or bunches which have an
excesgively straggly or ragged appearance, should be scored as damaged
tops.

Inspectors should check sidewall row crates loaded with bottoms
ight against sidewalls, particularly during the summer months. If
yellowing or discoloration is found, it should be described as accurately
ag possible, indicating the number of inches this condition extends into
the crates.

(2a)

fll

(122)

(123).

(12h)


wn

$2851.2470 Diameter.

“Diameter” means the greatest di-
mension of the root measured at right
angles to the longitudinal axis.

§ 2851.2471 Serious damage.

“Serious damage” means any defect
which seriously affects the appear-
ance, or the edible or shipping quality
of the individual carrot or the general
appearance of the carrots in the con-
tainer, or causes a loss of more than 20
percent, by weight, in the ordinary
preparation for use.

Dated August 12, 1954.

{sEAL] Roy W. LEeNNARTSON,
Deputy Administrator,
Marketing Services,
[F. R. Doc. 54-6407; Filed, Aug. 17, 1954;
8:53 a. 1.]



-1h-

(91) Slightly Dirty .is not defined in the carrot standards but may be
used to describe carrots that are.not "fairly clean" but are not so dirty
thet they are "damaged by dirt." Slightly dirty carrots meet the require-
ments of the U. 8. No. 1 and U. 5S. No. 2 grades for Topped Carrots only.

(92) Dirty may be used to describe carrots that are "damaged by dirt."

. Either of t! terms describes carrots affected by dirt or other foreign
matter that materially affects the general appearance of a lot or affects
individual carrots s0 that they are badly caked with dirt or are badly
stained. In determining whether a lot is dirty or stained enough to be
damaged by dirt, the general appearance of the lot should be taken into
sonsideration as well as the appearance of the individual specimens.
Individually badly caked roots (that ia, those which have over 1/2 of
their surface caked with dirt or badly stained stock) should be scored
with other defects as damage. There may be lots which will not have eny
badly caked or badly stained stock but still there may be adhering soil |
or staining on enough roots to materially affect the appearance of the
lot. The appearance of such a lot is damaged snd fails to’ meet grade.
As @ guide, inspectors should put lots out of U. 8. No. 1 Topped © *~
Carrot grade. when the quantity term "generally" will not include all
etages of cleanness other than "dirty," thue: "Carrots are mostly
slightly dirty, some dirty," or "In most sacks fairly clean, some dirty."

(93) Serious damage by dirt applies to carrots whose appearance is
seriously affected by dirt or staining. Individual carrote with more
than 1/2 of their surface caked with mud or dirt (lesser amounts when
the dirt is thick or dark) should be scored against the U. S. No. 2
grade for Topped Carrots and against the restricted tolerance for serious
damage in all other grades. . . oy

. (9%) _When a lot of carrots meets the requirements of a higher cleanness
classification than the minimum of the grade on which they are »eing in-
spected, this fact should be reported, for example: On a lot of U. S.
No. 1 Topped carrots:- "Carrots are.clean" or "Carrots are mostly
fairly clean, many clean,” etc. 7 ‘

(95) (4%) Color of Roots: The terms well colored, fairly well colored and
poorly colored should be used to describe the color of roots. The in-
spectora 6 refer to the colored photographs in their offices to
form a mental picture of the shades of color represented by these terms.

(96) ‘The US. Extra No. 1 grade for Topped Carrots and the U. 8. No. 1
and U. S. Commercial grades for Bunched Carrote and Carrots with Short
Trimmed Tops and Grade A end B Grade in the Consumer Standards specify
that the roots shall be fairly well colored. This is defined as meaning
that the carrot has an orange, orange red or orange scarlet color but
not a pale orange or a distinct yellow color. There is no color
requirement in the U. 8. No. 1 and U. S. No. 2 grades for Topped Carrots
but their color may be reported if requested by the applicant.



(32)

* (33)

(34)

(35)

(36)
(37)

(38)

(39)

(40)
(42)

(42)

-6-

B. Types of Loads for Bunched Carrots. There are various types of
loads used for bunched carrots, the method generally depending upon the
number of crates to the car. The common load of full size crates is
from 346 to 352 crates, and in a few cases up to 360 crates. When there
is crushed or chunk ice over and/or through the load, it should be
reported and described as to amount and location.

During the sumer months, cars of bunched carrots which are loaded

with the bottom of the lower layer sidewall rows crates tight against the
sidewalls, frequently show yellowing and discoloration of the tops
extending a few inches into the crates to the entire contents. This is
epparently due to the pertial blocking of refrigeration at this point.
It has been noted that cars loaded with the bulge next to the sidewalls
do not show this condition. Therefore, it is important, when sidewall
crates show yellowing, to show position of sidewall crates, i.e., lids
next walls or bottoms tight against the sidewalls.

E le: Through lengthwise load, 2 lower layers on sides 6 rows
with lids next sidewalls, 3rd layer on sides 5 rows and top layer on
bottom 5 rows. Approximately 1 foot of crushed ice over load.

CONDITION OF PACK
Refer to the Destination Market Handbook, same heading.

A. Topped Carrots (also carrots with short trimmed tops.)

When the product is in sacks or film bags (including consumer size
film bags) the Pack heading should be followed by x x xs.

Carrots in open mesh sacks and in large film bags may be jumble
filled or may be placed in the containers in an orderly crosswise
arrangement. Consumer size bags are filled by hand with an effort
usually being made to obtain a fairly uniform fill and an even weight.

The pack of topped carrots, and carrots with short-trimmed tops, in
cartons, boxes, baskets, etc. may be described by the use of the terms
well filled, fairly well filled and slack. If these packs are faced
this fact should be mentioned. For definitions of these terms refer to
the general D. M. Handbook.

B. Bunched Carrots.

Bunched carrots in full size crates are usually packed with 3 layers
of bunches, containing 2 dozen bunches to the layer. Crushed ice is
placed over each layer.

Under this heading the lid bulge in connection with tightness is not
so important, as the lids are slightly longer than the crate and there
would be a bulge regardless of the contents. The tightness of the pack


2

UNITED STATES STANDARDS FOR GRADES OF
BUNCHED CARROTS?

Source: 19 FR 5202, Aug. 18, 1954, unless
otherwise noted. Redesignated at 42 FR

32514, June 27, 1977.

Effective September 18, 1954

sec. GRADES
2851.2455 U.S. No. 1.
2851.2456 U.S. Commercial.
UNCLASSIFIED
2851.2457 Unclassified.

APPLICATION OF TOLERANCES
2851.2458 Application of tolerances.

LENGTH oF Tops
Length of tops.
Sranparp BuNcHES
Standard bunches.
DEFINITIONS

Similar varietal characteristics.
Firm.

Fairly clean,
Fairly well colored.
Fairly smooth.
Well formed.
Damage.

Fresh.

Full tops.
Diameter.

Serious damage.

2851.2459
2851.2460

2851.2461
2851.2462
2851.2463
2851.2464
2851.2465
2851.2466
2851.2467
2851.2468
285 1.2469
2851.2470
2851.2471

AurHorirr: The provisions of this subpart
issued under secs, 203, 205, 60 Stat. 1087, as
amended, 1090 as amended; 7 U.S.C. 1622,
1624,

GRADES

§ 2851.2455 U.S. No. 1.

“U.S. No. 1” consists of carrots of
similar varietal characteristics the
roots of which are firm, fairly clean,
fairly well colored, fairly smooth, well

1 Compliance with the provisions of these
standards shall not excuse failure to comply
with the provisions of the Federal Food, Drug
and Cosmetic Act, or with applicable State
laws and regulations.

formed, and which are free from soft
rot, and free from damage caused by
freezing, growth cracks, sunburn,
pithiness, woodiness, internal discolor-
ation, oil spray, dry rot, other disease,
insects or mechanical or other means.
Bunches shall have tops which are
fresh and free from decay and free
from damage caused by freezing, seed-
stems, yellowing or other discolor-
ation, disease, insects or mechanical or
other means. Unless otherwise speci-
fied, the bunches shall have full tops
and the length of tops shall be not
more than 20 inches. (See § 2851.2459.)

(a) Size. Unless otherwise specified,
the diameter of each carrot shall be
not less than three-fourths inch.

(b) Tolerances. In order to allow for -
variations incident to proper grading
and handling the following tolerances
shall be permitted:

(L) For defects of roots. 10 percent,
by count, for carrot roots in any lot
which fail to meet the requirements of
the grade, other than for size: Pro-
vided, That not more than one-half of
this amount, or 5 percent, shall be al-
lowed for defects causing serious
damage, including therein not more
than one percent for carrot roots af-
fected by soft rot;

(2) For defects of tops. 10 percent, by
count, for bunches in any lot which
fail to meet the requirements of the
grade, including therein not more
than 5 percent for decay;

(3) For off-length tops. 25 percent, by
count, for bunches in any lot - >ich
have tops longer than the spev’“!2d
length; and,

(4) For off-size roots. 5 percent, by
count, for carrot roots in any lot
which are smaller than the specified
minimum diameter, and 10 percent, by




-3-

U. S. Standards For Bunched Carrots (10)

Limits Permitted in Individual
Packages for Tolerance of 10% or more

TM~
Limits Permitted in Individual
Packages for Tolerance of less than

10h

1-1/2 t'mes the tolerence, except’.
that at least 1 defective and 1
off-size carrot: permitted in any
package.

Double the tolerance, except that at
least. 1 defective and 1 off-size
carrot permitted in any package.

U. S. Consumer Standards for Carrots:

Individual packages under (11)

these standards are not restricted for any tolerance;. Provided. that the
average is within the tolerance specified.

CAR INITIALS AND NUMBER, KIND OF CAR, WHERE INSPECTED, CONDITION OF CAR. (12)

Refer to Destination Market Handbook. (13)

PRODUCTS INSPECTED AND DISTINGUISHING MARKS. » (4)

Refer to Destination Market Handbook. _ (15)

The following factord should be reported under this heading: (16)
l. Product,

2. ‘Type of Container.
3. Brand or marks.
4. State of origin.
5. Guantity inspected.

(1) Product.

The product will practically always be designated on the (17)
certificate without any attempt tc determine the type or variety.

Bunched

Carrots, Topped Carrots or Carrots with Short Trimmed Tops will suffice.

Inspectors should not attempt to certify variety.

It is permissible to

report the shape of the roots as being of a certain type provided the

inspector is ‘quite certain that such a statement is true.
“Long type Bunched CARROTS in..........".

For example:
If the variety is manifested,

it may be so reported if requested by the applicant, unless it is obviously

in error

in which case the request should be declined.

Long Type. In determining type, when the applicant requests it (18)
to be reported, the principal difficulty is in distinguishing between the
long type represented by the Imperatur variety and the half long type,

such as Chantenay and Danvers Half Long.

Whenever the lot as a whole is

found to be distinctly long or distinctly half long, it will be satis-

factory to report:
Bunched CARROTS....."

“Long type Bunched CARROTS..." or "Half long type
in accordance with the facts.

In many lots the


-2-

ine- | | Over ; i \ !
No. | Def. jos H [Poor |Range Under} size |size [Bch |No.' Tops Tops
Root] Roots [on rom stor Color [Size | seg Size Bch jCo ~Lgth!l Dam. “Dk | Pck
100 13ma iO {w | 2 imw 2] o [3/4- [ru | 20; racheaq 5] | wr

| { SFW ~3/%

| ‘ 22

fo} u

100 |2 1) FW " J4 to) " 20 " 610 FWF
100 |& 0 | w « 31 0 " col = | = taldo |=
100 1W 3 . 2 0 " 20 " Lo) WF
(7) Samples should be selected sq that they. will be representative of the

different lote and portions of

the car, In scoring defects of the roots

the individual carrot is the unit for all Standards, including Consumer

Standards. In scoring defects

of the tops the bunch is the unit for the

Bunched Standards and Consumer Standards for bunched style. In the Short
Trimmed Tops Standards the individual carrot is the unit, even though
they are bunched. Bunches should be examined in multiples of 10 since a

tolerance of 10% may have tops which are damaged.
(8) _* APPLICATION OF TOLERANCES
(9) UD. 8. Standards for Carrote with short Trimmed Tops,
. ane

U. S. Standards for Topped Carrots

Limits Permitted in Individual
Packages Which Contain More Than
5 lbs.

Limits Permitted in Individual
Packages Which Contain 5 lbs. or
Less.

For tolerance ot | For tolerance of
10% or More. | less than 10%.

Individual packeges not restricted,

1-1/2 times the | Double the tolerance may be frozen or affected by soft
tolerance. except that at least rot in any package.
1 defective carrot

permitted in any
package.

except that not more than 1 carrct



-15 -

In case carrots show a mottled color, as they sometimes do following
heavy rains, the average color should be considered. Frequently the
lower part of the root will be poorly colored while the upper part will
ve fairly well colored. In cases of this nature, if the lower portion is
decidedly light in color, the carrot must be considered poorly colored.

(5) Trimming. Topped Carrots are required to be"well trimmed" in all
grades. “Well trimmed” means thet the tops are cut back to not more than
1 inch in length, except that new leaves developing within the original
central cluster of leafstems, or occasional uncut leaves or leafstems, ex-
ceeding this length which do not materially affect the appearance of the
carrots in the container shall be permitted. Carrots may have tips of
roots cut or broken off; Provided, That these cuts or breaks are small
and fairly smooth and do not materially affect the appearance of carrots
in the container.

Carrote with Short Trimmed Tops have a separate 10% tolerance for
leafstems over the maximum 4 inch length permitted. They also have a 10%
tolerance for defects of leafstems, including 5% for leafstems affected
by decay. Individual carrots with discolored, or otherwise damaged leaf-
atems should be scored individually (even though they are tied in bunches)
against the tolerance for damaged leafstems.

In determining the length of leafstems and cut back tops, measure-
ments should be made from the point of attachment of the stems to the
roots. .

(6) Defects: In scoring defects of the rovta the individual carrot is
the unit. In scoring defects of the tops, the bunch is the unit in the
Bunched Carrot Standards and in the Consumer Standards for Bunched Style.
Therefore it is necessary to keep separate scoring for defects of the
roote end defects of the tops. There are separate tolerances in the
grades for both tops and roots. Remember Bunched Carrots, Carrots with
Short -Trimmed Tops and Consumer Standards Carrots are scored by count but
Topped Carrots in the Topped Carrot Standards are scored on a weight basis,
except those in packages of approximately 2 pounds or less, which must be
scored on & count basis.

Insect Injury: Wireworm and nematode are the most common in-
sects affecting carrots. Nematodes may cause the root to be rough, or
cause enlarged tips of carrots or the secondary rootlets to have enlarged
nodules resulting in a rough appearance sufficient to score against grade.
Since such roughness may be due to other causes, such carrots should be
scored as rough. See paragraph on smoothness. .

The extent of the injury caused by Wireworm is difficult to de-
termine. Unless the injury is only very slight and distinctly superficial
It must be scored as damaged in Bunched ,and Short Trimmed tops and
Consumer Standards grades. In Topped Carrots Standards damage permits b;
waste, but ordinarily the appearance will be materially damaged without
causing 5% waste in which case it should be scored as damage.

(97)

(98)

(99)

(100)

(101)

(102)

(103)


-5-

the shipper or packer's address, if it appears on the label, should be
quoted on the certificate.- Shipments may contain several brands or
labels covering different growers' lots. If the carrots in the

various lots are fairly uniform in size and quality, it is not necessary
to quote the various brands or marks if there are 3 or more, but the

fact should be mentioned that there are various lots or brands. When
there is a material difference between the different lots, so that it is
necessary to report them separately under some of the other headings on
the certificate, it is beat to enumerate them under the Products heading.

(4) State of Origin. If the containers are not marked to indicate the (26)
State origin, or it is not clearly shown by the shipper's address s

inquiries should be made of the applicant or carrier as to its origin,

and a statement made to the effect that it was invoiced or manifested

as being from a certain State. Under all conditions, such statements

should be based on some authority other than that of the inspector.

(5) Quantity Inspected. Follow the usual practice of securing from the (27)
applicant or transportation agent a statement es to the number of pack-

ages in the shipment, which should then be reported as "Applicant's

count,." "Manifested as," etc. Do not make an unqualified statement as

to the number of packages unless you personally have been able to make

an accurate count. ,

Examples of Products Inspected and Distinguishing Marks: (28)

1. Topped CARROTS in ccttonnet sacks brand "Texas Wrangler Brend,
50 lbs. net." Manifested as 500 sacks shipped from Texas.

2. Topped CARROTS in round bottom bushel baskets labeled "Star
Brand, Louisiana Carrots, 50 lbs. net." Lids stamped "U. S. No. 1,
1-1/2 inches minimum." Manifested as 620 baskets.

3. Bunched CARROTS in crates labeled "Top Sale Brand; Phoenix,
Ariz." and stamped "6 Doz. Bunches, Medium-Large." Manifested as (or
spplicant states) 346 crates.

4, Topped CARROTS in film bags printed "Golden Girl Brand, 1 lb.
net." packed 48 to a wire bound crate. Applicant's count 510 crates.

CONDITION OF LOAD AND CONTAINERS (a9)

For general information described under this heading, refer to the (30)
Destination Market Handbook.

A. Types of Loads fcr Topped Carrots. Standard loading arrange- (31)
ment for containers used. See D. M. Handbook.
!



-21-

diseases of carrote are Watery Soft Rot, Bacterial Soft Rot and Black
Rot. A clear description of the degree of soft rot found is important
in order that interested parties may properly evaluate an affected lot.
For example, at times considerable percentages of the roots will show
decay just starting either in the tip end of the roots of bunched carrots
or around the crowns of topped carrots, especially stock in which the
tops may heve been decayed. It is often possible to dispose of such
stock to good advantage for immediate use.

Differentiate Between Decay and Dead, Watersoaked or Bruised Leaves.
Attention is called to discolored, dead, bruised or watersoaked leaves
which might be wrongly classed as decay. Careful examination of these
leaves may show no mold and that the tissues do not disintegrate easily
when rubbed, as is common in Bacterial Soft Rot. Such leaves are not
decayed as this term is used in the Inspection Service. "Decay will be
used in the sense of being a deterioration or decline involving decompo-
sition, which is induced by fungi, bacteria and the like and which is of
a complete and progressive nature; thet is, in the sense of being a rot."

GRADE
Refer to the Destination Market Handbook.

Under this heading a statement should be made showing whether or not
the lot inspected meets the requirements of the grade for which it was
presumed to have been sold or of the grade, if any, marked on the con-
tainer. When the grade is in question, and the lot is certified to be
under the requirements of some certain grade, it should also be stated
in just whet respects the product fails to meet the requirements of the
grade specified.

Reporting Grade of Bunched Carrots When Tops are Damaged: In the
Bunched Carrots Standards, when a lot of bunched carrots shows over 10%
of the bunches with tops damaged by discoloration, or individual packages
exceed one and one half times the tolerance (15), the lot would fail to
grade on account of damaged tops. As.the 10% of the bunches permitted
showing damaged tops is scored on the basis of the bunch, such percentages
must not be added to the total defects, which are scored on the basis of
the individual root, to arrive at a percentage of U. S. No. 1 quality.

If the bunches with damaged tops are more than 1% but less than 10%,
they should be reported by the use of the term "generally," either alone
or in connection with a grade defects statement, thus: "Tops generally
fresh and green" or "Tops Beherally fresh and green, damage by yellow
leaves averages within tolerances.

If the percentage of damaged tops exceeds the tolerances, the range
and the average percentage of damaged bunches must be reported. If a lot
is out of grade due to damage by tops, no percentage of U. S. No. 1
quality may be reported, however, a percentage of. U. S. No. 1 quality or
grade of the roots aside from the tops may be stated.

cms,

(135)

(136)
(137)
(138)

(139)

(140)

(142) |


Agricuhure Bunched and

aren. Topped Carrots

Fr and and

Fresh Procics CARROTS WITH

Weahingion, DC. SHORT TRIMMED TOPS

March 1956

MARKET
INSPECTION INSTRUCTIONS



(47)
(8)

(49)
(50)

(51)
(52)

(53)

-8-
TEMPERATURE OF PRODUCT
Refer to the Destination Market Handbook.
size
Refer to Destination Market Handbook, same heading.

A. Topped Carrots

Minimum and Maximum Size. Unless other sizes are specified,
the U. S. Extra No. 1 grade for Topped carrots requires that the diameter
of each carrot shall not be less than 3/4 inch, not more than 1-1/2
inches and that the length shall be not less than 5 inches. Unless other-
wise specified, U. S. No. 1 and U. 8. No. 2 Topped Carrots shall be not
less than 1 inch, nor more than 3 inches in diameter, nor less than 3
inches in length. Each grade of Topped Carrots contains a 5% tolerance
for carrots which are leas than the specified minimum diameter, a 10%
tolerance for carrots which are greater than. the specified maximm diameter
and 5% tolerence for carrots which are shorter than the specified minimm
length.

While there is no maximum root length specified in the grades.
the root length is generally important to the buyer an@ should be reported
under the Size heading on the certificate.

Certifying Size Only. Since size ig a factor of quality in the
Topped Carrot Grade, it will be permissible to certify "Size Orly" on the
certificate, if it is so requested by the applicant.

Standerd Sizing. on Topped and Short Trimmed Carrots. Standard
sizing may be certified in connection with the grades for topped
esrrots and carrots with short trimmed tops when the product is. in pack-
ages weighing approximately 2 pounds or less. This clessification re-
quires that the carrots in not less than 80% of the individual packages
in @ lot shall not very more than 3/8 inch in diameter or 2-1/2 inches in
length. If requested by the applicant, the count per package may be re-
ported on small packages.

Examples of Topped Carrots Size Statements:

. 4. Generally 1 to 3, mostly 2 to 2-3/4-inches in diameter, and
4 to 9, mostly 5 to 7 inches in length. 2% undersize and 5% oversize noted.

2. Generally 3/4 to 1-1/2 inches in diameter and 5 to 10, mostly
6 to 8 inches. in length. Undersize within tolerance.

3. Generally 3/4 to 1-1/2 inches in diameter and 5 to 8 inches in
length; 3 to 10% average &% under 3/4 inch in diameter; 2 to & average
6% under 5 inches in length including 3% aleo reported as under 3/4 inch
in diameter. 2% over 1-1/2 inches in diameter.



-7T-

should always be considered when the container is resting on its bottom.
Wher. the container is resting on its side, the side slackness or tight-
ness should not be reported. The terms "tight," "fairly tight," etc.,

as used in describing pack of commodities packed in ice, are not satis-
factory because these terms do not in all cases represent the tightness
of the product. The tightness of the package in most cased is determined
by the amount of ice in the pack.

In describing tightness the following terms should be used: , (43)
“Well filled" means that the bunches are packed tight in layers.

"Fairly well filled" means that the bunches are packed fairly
tight in layers. .

The relative amount of ice in the crate should be reported by the (44)
following terms:

“"No ice in crates" when there.is no ice.

“Practically no ice in crates" when there is only a small
scattering of crushed ice or a few small pieces remaining.

"Small amount of crushed ice in crates" when there is a
mall amount over one or more layers.

“Good amount of crushed ice in crates" when there is about the
normal amount of ice.

“Large amount of crushed ice in crates" when there is consider-
ably more than the normal amount.

Reporting Gross or Net Weight of Containers: An inspection should 45)
not be le only for net or gross weight. If requested, in connection
with a condition or grade inspection. the weight may be reported under
the "Pack" heading. Report the range in weights, the average, and the
percentage of containers which are under the weight specified or under
the weight marked on the containers. (Refer to Destination Market Hand-
book for detailed instructions.) .

Examples of Pack: (46)

1. Mostly well filled, many fairly well filled, few 1/2 inch slack
(Topped).

2. Well filled with good amount of crushed ice over layers (Bunched).

3. From 46 to 53, average 49 pounds net per sack with 15% of sacks
under 50 pounds net weight.

4, From 14-1/2 to 18, average 15-1/2 ounces net per bag with 20% of bags
under 16 ounces net weight.




United States Standards

zs We he



(19)

(20)

(a)

(22)

(23)

(2h)

(25)

-~4-

roots may nut be distinctly of one type or the other but range from long
to half long with all intermediate degrees. Such variation is not un-
usual, and no attempt should be made to describe type in such a situation
though the variation in shape may be described Af specifically requested
by the applicant.

Short Type carrote such as the Oxheart variety, are seldom en-
countered in commercial shipments of bunched carrots but are commonly
shipped as topped carrots in some areas. They can usually be readily
distinguished as they are distinctly shorter and broader than the long
or half long types.

For a complete description of the various varieties of carrots
refer to Miscellaneous Publication No. 361, Description of Types of
Principal American Verieties of Orange Fleshed Carrots.

(2) Type of Container.

(a) - ed Carrots from the. leading production areas are shipped
mostly in one pound size film bags, usually packed 48 to a wirebound
crate or 24 to a carton. Master containers of other types for the film
bags are aleo used to ea limited extent such as open mesh bags and dozen
bag size cartons. A smaii’volume of. carrots is packed in 20 and 32
ounce consumer bags. These are used mostly for shipments to Canada.

.. Topped Carrots are also shipped in volume in the standard
50-pound open mesh bag. A small volume is shipped in larger film bags
of verious sizes ranging from 5 to 50 pounds capacities and a few are
shipped loose in boxes, cartons and lined crates. In some areas it is a
common practice to ship carrots in used open mesh or burlap secke for
prepackaging in the markets. Also in some sections near the markets,
carrots are shipped in bushel baskets, hampers, lugs, etc.

(>) Bunched Carrots are most commonly packed in the stendard
lettuce crate although in some cases a half size crate is used. When
the lettuce crate is used. it may be referred to merely as a "crate"
without any description as to size. If the half-size crate is used,
this should be reported under the Products heading. Furthermore, since
it. is customary for the crates to be paper lined and lidded, this need
not be mentioned. However, if the crates are not lined and lidded in
the usual manner, this fact should be mentioned.

(c) Carrots with short trimmed tops ere usually shipped in
sacks, cartons or crates of various sizes. The carrots may be bunched
but most often they are jumble packed in the container.

(3) Brands or Marks. The containers are often stenciled, labeled or
printed to show the ‘brand, shipper's name and address, net weight of
the contents and point of origin. Such brands or labels, including



(14)

(15)

(116)

(117)

(228)

- 18 -

an.exceasively straggly or ragged appearance, the buneh should be scored
against the grade. Unless an excessive number of leaves heave been re-
moved ‘on account of freezing injury, blight, or other causes, there
generally will bee’ sufficient number of leaves to consider the tops
es satisfactory fot the bunch as a whole. However, if only e relatively
few leaves remain, the bunch should be considered materially affected
and scored as a deféct against the 10% tolerance for defects 2f tops.
“Bronze“ or “Purple Colored Tops." Sometimes certain sections
of carrot fields may have tops that ere somewhat “bronze” or “purpleTM
colored. These tops should not be considered damaged unless the general
appearance of the bunch ies materially affected. This color is a growing
condition and ie not considered so objectionable as brown discoloration,
and inspectors should allow considerable of this type of discoloration
before considering the appearance of the tops materially affected.

CONDITION
Refer to the: Destination Market Handbook.

The following factors should be reported under this heading:

1. Fimmess of roots.

2. Freshness of tops.

3. . Color of tops.

4. Other condition defects.
.5. Decay.

(1) Firmness of Roote: The carrot grades all specify the roots shall be
“fim" which fe defined as meaning’that the carrots are not soft, flabby
or shriveled." Firmness should be described ‘by the following terms:

1. “Firm" means thet the carrots are not soft, flabby
or shriveled. . °

2. “Fairly Firm" means that the carrots are slightl,
wilted, soft or flabby. (Paile to meet’ requirements of ali grades).

3. “Flabby end Wiltea" means that the cerrots ere badly
wilted, flabby, soft, limp or rubbery. .

The range and average percentage of flabby and wilted roote and
fairly firm roots’ should: be reported. The location in the crate and in
the car should be shown as this has an important bearing on indicating
whether wilting occurred prior to packing or during the transit period
due to lack of adequate refrigeration.


§ 51.2370 Well trimmed.

“Well trimmed” means that the tops
are cut back to not more than 1 inch in
length, except that new leaves develop-
ing within the original central cluster
of leafstems, or occasional uncut leaves
or leafstems, exceeding this length which
do not materially affect the appearance
of the individual carrot shall be per-
mitted. Carrots may have tips of roots
cut or broken off: Provided, That these
cuts or breaks sre small and fairly
smooth and do not materially affect the
appearance of the individual carrot.

§ 51.2371 Firm.

“Firm” means that the carrot is not
soft; flabby or shriveled.

§ 51.2372 Clean.

“Clean” means that the individual
carrot is practically free from dirt and
other foreign matter.

§ 51.2373 Fairly well colored.

“Fairly well colored”; means that the
carrot has an orange,, orange red, or
orange scarlet color, but not a pale
orange or distinct yellow color.

§ 51.2374 Fairly smooth.

“Fairly smooth” means that the indi-
vidual carrot is not rough, ridged, or
covered with secondary rootlets to the
extent that the appearance is materially
affected.

§ 51.2375 Well formed.

“Well formed” means that the indi-
vidual carrot is not forked, or misshapen
to the extent that the appearance is
more than slightly affected.

§ 51.2376 Secondary new top growth.

“Secondary new top growth” means
new leaves or clusters of leaves which
have developed outside the original cen-
tral cluster of leafstems.

§ 51.2377 Damage.

“Damage” means any specific defect
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 the
edible or shipping quality of the indi-
vidual carrot or the appearance of the
sample as a whole, or which cannot be
removed without a loss of more than 5
percent, by weight, in the ordinary prep-
aration for use. The following specific
defects shall be considered as damage:

(a) Growth cracks which are not
shallow or not smooth, or which ma-
terlally detract from the appearance of
the individual carrot;

(b) Sunburn-which causes a loss of
more than 5 percent, by weight, in the
ordinary preparation for use, except that
superficial light green color at the stem
end which does not materially detract
from the appearance of the carrot shall
be permitted.

§ 51.2378 Diameter.

“Diameter” means the greatest di-
mension of the carrot measured at right
angles to the longitudinal axis.

§ 51.2379 Length.

“Length” means the greatest dimen-
sion of the carrot measured from the
crown to the lowest point which is not
less than one-fourth inch in diameter.

§ 51.2380 Fairly clean.

“Fairly clean” means that the indi-
vidual carrot is reasonably free from
dirt and other forelgn matter.

§ 51.2381 Fairly well formed.

“Fairly well formed” means that the
individual carrot is not forked, or mis-
shapen to the extent that the appear-
ance is materially affected.

§ 51.2382 Excessively rough.
“Excessively rough” means that the
individual carrot is rough or ridged to.

the extent that the appearance is
seriously affected.

§ 51.2383 Seriously misshapen.
“Seriously misshapen” means that the
individual carrot is forked or misshapen

to the extent that the appearance is
seriously affected.


: § 51.2884 Serious damage.

“Serious damage” means any defect,
or any combination of defects, which
seriously detracts from the appearance,
or the edible cr shipping quality of the

individual carrot or the appearance of:

the sample as a. whole, or which cannot

be removed without a-loss of more than,

20 percent, by weight, in the ordinary
preparation for use.

The United States Standards for
Grades of Topped Carrots contained in
this subpart shall become effective De-
cember 20, 1965, and will thereupon
Supersede the United States Standards
for Topped -Carrots which have been in
effect since July 17, 1954 (7 CFR 51.2360—

1.2381).

Dated: November 17, 1965.

G.R. GRANGE,
Deputy Administrator,
Marketing Services.
IF.R, Doc, 65-12514; Filed, Nov. 19, 1965;
8:49 a.m.)

CONVERSION TABLE

Millimeters (mm)

Inches

1/8
1/4
3/8
1/2
5/8
“3/4
7/8

3.2
6.4
9.5
12.7
15.9
19.0
22.2

Inches Millimeters(mm)

1 25.4
1-1/4 31.8
1-1/2 38.1
1-3/4 44.4
50.8
76.2
101.6



(asa)

Size:

Quality:

Condition:

- he

Roots generally. from 3/4 to 2 inches in diameter with

average approximately 15% under 1 inch, including 34 under
3/4 inch. Full tops, 16 to 20 inches in length.

Roots are clean, fairly well to well, mostly well colored,
mostly well formed and smooth, many well formed and. fairly
‘mooth.. Grade defects from 3 to 25%, average approximately
12% including 3 serious damagé. Defects consist of 6%
Growth cracks and misshapen, 44% sunburn, remainder worm

Roots are mostly firm. In most samples none, in many 3 to
25h, average approximately 15%, flabby and wilted roots
scattered through packs and load. Tops mostly fresh and
mostly show good green color. From 5 to 4Of, average
spproximately 25% of bunches damaged by some to many yellow

or brown discolored, andjor water-soaked leaves. No decay.

Grade:

Size:

Quality: .

Condition:

” Grade:

Fails to grade U..5. No. 1 on account of grade defects in
excesa of the tolerance but roots average approximately
70% U. 8. No. 1 quality,

Short Trimmed Tops

Generally 3/4 to 1-1/2, mostly 1 to 1-1/2 inches In diameter,
Of undersize. Leafetems generally 3 to 5 inches in length
with 5 to 20%, average approximately 15% with leafstems |
over 4 inches, including 3% over 5 inches in length.

Roots clean, smooth, well formed, mostly well, many fairly
well colored. Grade defects average 5%.

Roots ere firm. Leafetems fresh and. light green color.
No decay.

Fails to grede.U. 5. No. 1 account leafstems over 4 inches
in length in excess of the tolerance.


“QUALITY... 2.

Form (Shape).". 6. oe ee ee
Smoothness. 2. 6 1 w 6 we ee ee
Cleanness . . 2... ee eee eee
Color of Roots. ©... ee ae ee
Trimming. . 5. se eee ee we we
Defects... eee ew we ee tw
Insect Injury. . 2... ee ee
Growth Cracks. . 2... 2 ee ee
Mechanical Damage. ........
Seed Stems... 1... 2. ee we
Sunburn. . 6 6 1 6 ee we ee ee
Pithiness. 2... 0 ee ee ee
Woodiness. . 2... 6 see ee ee
Bacterial Blight .... 2... we
vice ei iy straasly or Reged ‘toy
Excessively-Straggly or Ragged Top:
Bronz-or Purple Colored Tops .. .
“CONDITION. © es bb Fe ee ee ee ee ee
Firmness-of Roots... 2. 2 ee eee
Freshnese of Topp... ..... +.
.Color of Topp... 1... 1 ee eee
Other Condition Defects ........
Cc

-Discoloration of Tops of Bunched

Fresh Cracks... 1. 2. se ee

- Freezing Injury and Frozen Stock
. New Top Growth... 2... 0.0
Decay... 2 eee ee eet

Dry Rote .....-6..

Soft Rot... 2.5...
Scoring and Reporting Decay .
Differentiate Between Decay and Dead,
. Bruised Leaves... ......
GRADE. . 6 ee eee eee ew oe

Size in Connection with Grade .

GENERAL EXAMPIES ... 2... 2. eee eee
Topped Carrots... .. 2.202006
Bunched Carrots... 2 ee ee eee

. Short Trimmed Tops. . .” oe ee

TABLE OF SIZE REQUIREMENTS . eee

TABLE OF TOLERANCES. . 2. . u's. 2 2 we

‘ - Grade ‘Standatds ©
APPENDIX I ....U.S. Gr. eee

ti

.
.
Wat

a: ey

arrot.

Ce 2d

Ce

soaked

Ce
Sy

or

Reporting Grade of Bunched Carrots When Tops are Damaged.
More Complete Grade Statement of Percentage

ee rs

Ce

Cars. ....

eee wwe e

Ce

135
119
120
121
128
125
126
127
128
135
130
133
134

135
146
142
wah
146
147
151
149
150
151
152
153


-in-

3. (Not U. 8. No. 1 Account Undersize’ but makes U. S.No. 1,
1/2 inch minimum.) From 1/2 to 1-1/2, mostly, 3/4 to 1-1/4 imches in ~-
diameter. From 5 to 20%, average approximately 12% under 3/4-inches in
diameter, tncluding 3% under 1/2 inch. Tops 14 to 22, mostly 15 to 18
inches in length with less than 25% over 20 inches in length.

&. Generally 3/4 to 1-3/4 inches, mostly 1 to 1-1/2 inches
in diameter. 2% unders{zé. Tops medium length. 4 to 10, mostly 5 to
8 carrots per bunch, -Range from 62 to 78, averages 70 bunches per
crate.

(Note: Under Remarks state "Inspection for bunch count made at appli-
cant's request.") .

C. Carrots with Short-Trimmed Tops.

The same size specifications and tolerances apply to carrots with
short-trimmed tops as to bunched carrots, except that the specifications
for length of tops have been replaced by a provision that the leafstems
“shall be cut back to not more than 4 inches in length." A tolerance of
10% by count is provided for leafstems over 4 inches long. There is no
requirement as to the minimum length of leafstems. Any carrot showing
one or more leafstemes identifiable as such meets grade requirements.
Carrots with no leafstems should be scored against the 10% tolerance for
defects of leafstems.

Standard Sizing may be reported on carrots with short -trimmed
tops when it is requested by the applicant. Refer to the standards for
requirements.

Example of Short-Trimmed Tops Size Statement:

Generally 3/4 to 1-1/2 inches in diameter. Undersize within
tolerance. Tops generally 4 inches or less in length.

When Undersize and Oversize Specimens Also Show Grade Defects:

Refer to the Destination Market Handbook.

QUALITY
The following factors should be reported under this heading:

1. Form (Shape).
2. Smoothness.

3. Cleanness.

4. Color of Roote.
5. Trimming.

6. Defects.

(72)

(74)

(75)

(76)

(17)
(78)


-13-

In determining smoothness under the term fairly smooth, the rough- (8)
ness of the surface as well as the effect that secondary rootlets may
pave upon the general appearance should be considered. Secondary root-
lets, when in sufficient number, should be considered as affecting
smoothness and, therefore, scored against grade on smoothness. Even
though the grades specify fairly smooth, if they are smooth they should
ve so described. Either misshapen or rough stock may be the result of
various causes, such as having been produced in hard, rocky ground,
crowding in the rows, freezing damage at an early stage of growth, irri-
gation or water cut off ~ no growth for a period and then irrigated
again, or other causes.

The following terms should be used in describing smoothness: (87)

1. “Smooth” means that the carrot hes a fairly even surface,
not ridged, grooved, lumpy, and is practically free from secondary
rootlets.

2. “Fairly Smooth” means that the carrot is not rough, ridged,
or covered with secondary rootlets to the extent that the appearance
ie materially affected.

. 3. “Rough" means thet the carrot is ridged, grooved, lumpy or
covered with secondary rootlets to an extent that the appearance is
materially affected.

4. “Excessively rough" means that the carrot is rough or
ridged to the extent that the appearance is seriously affected.

(3) Cleanness. The requirements as to cleanness are different in the (88)
various carrot grades. The definitions of the terms to be used to de-

scribe degrees of cleanness and the requirements of each grade as to

cleanness are listed below:

Clean means that the individual carrot is practically free (89)
from dirt or foreign matter. Carrots that can be classed as clean prac-
tically always have been washed, however, the fact that a carrot has
been washed does not necessérily mean that it is clean. Only the U. S.

Extra No. 1 Topped Carrot Grade and Grades A and B in the Consumer
Standards requires that carrots be clean.

Fairly clean means that the individual carrot is reasonably (90)
free from dirt, stain or other foreign matter and that the general
appearance of the carrots in the lot is not more than slightly affected.
Any appreciable pmount of caked dirt on a carrot would affect its appear-
ance. This applies to the individual carrot when the root is dirty or to
the bunch when the tops are damaged by dirt. Carrots must be fairly clean
or better to meet the requirements of the U. S. No. 1 and U. S. Commercial
grades in the standards for Bunched Carrots and Carrots with Short Trimmed
Tops.



TABLE OF CONTENTS

Paragraph
Numbers

PRODUCTION AREAS. . » - s/s ee ee ete ee ee ee we ee ee 1-
NOTE SHEET AND CERTIFICATE. . . 2 ee eee eee ee ee wee ee ee WE
Score Sheet for Topped Carrots... - es eee

Beore Sheet for Bunched and Short Trimmed Cerrots.

Sempling end Scoring... 6 20 eo ee ee eee
APPLICATION OF TOLERANCES. . 0°. 2 we ee ee eee 6- 12
CAR INITIALS AND NUMBER, KIND OF CAR. 1.10 se, l- 43
PRODUCTS INSPECTED AND DISTINGUISHING MARKS ..... .. 1k - 27
Product. 67. ee eee ee ee te ee ee eee 17
a Long Type Carrots . 2. se eee ee ee ee, 18
Short Type Carrots. 2... 6. ee ee 19 - 20
Type of Containers. 2. ee ee ee ee 21 - 2h
" Gopped Carroté.§. ws eee eee ee ee ee 21 -. 22
Bunched Carrots... 5. ee ee eee 23
Carrots with ghort Trimmed Tops . ee nee 2h
Brends or Marks.). 2 ee ee ee et ee es 25
State of Origin. 2 ee ee ee ee ee te ee 26
Quantity Inspected . 6 6. eee ee ee ee ee 27
Examples .6. 2 wee wee et ee te we ee ee 28
CONDITION OF LOAD AND CONTAINER . . 2. 2 ee ee eee 29 - 3b
Type of Load for Topped Carrots. ... 1... 31
Type ‘of Load for Bunched Carrots... . oe ee 32 - 33
Exemles’. . 6 eee eee ee ee te es 34
. CONDITION OF PACK . 2. 2s ee ee ee ee ee et we 35 - 46
Topped and Short Trimmed Topped Carrots... .~- .. 35 - 39
Bunched Carrots. 6... eee ee ee ee ho - bb
Reporting Gross or Net Weight of Containers... . 45
Examples... 2... Pr ie rs 46
TEMPERATURE OF PRODUCT. . . . er re ar rey 7
BILE. oe ee ee te et ees 48
Topped Currote .. 6.62 ee ee se we ee hg - 5h
Maximum and Minimum Size... 2. 2.1. ee ee 50 - 51
Certifying Size Only. ...... en eee 52

Standard Sizing for Topped and Short ‘Trimmed carrote

Examples. 61. 0 cee ee te et te te ee oh
Bunched Carrots. . 6... +. eee eee wee eee eee HH = TL
Bize of Roots... ee ee ee ee ee ee we 56 5G
Length. of Topp. 2.0 ee ee ee te et te ee ee ee 60- 63
“Uniformity of Sizing When Standard Bunches Certified... 64 - 6%
Count Per Bunch Upon Request. ....... eet ee ee 69
Number of Bunches Per Crate Upon Request. . +... 6+: 70

_ Examples of Size Statements . . 2... 22 ee ee eee TL
Carrots With Short-Trimmed Tops... 2.22 26 ese eee e T2- 76
Standerd Sizing... 1 eee eee ee ee ee ee Th
Nes. ce ew we ee te ee ee we we eee 5

When Undersize and Oversize Also Show Grade Defects eee 6


(a) Size. Unless otherwise specified,
the diameter of each carrot is not less
than 1 inch or more than 3 inches, and
the length is not jess than 3 inches.
(See § 51.2365.) '

UNCLASSIFIED
§ 51.2364 Unclassified.

“Unclassified” consists of carrots
which have not been classified in ac-
cordance with any of the foregoing
grades, The term “unclassified” is not
@ grade within the meaning of these
standards, but is provided as a desig-
nation to show that no grade has been
applied to the lot.

~ TOLERANCES
§ 51.2365 Tolerances.

In order to allow for variations inci-
dent to proper grading and handling in
each of the foregoing grades, the follow-
ing tolerances, by count, are Provided as
specified:

(a) Defects—(1) U.S. Extra No. 1
grade. Ten percent for carrots in any
lot. which fail to meet the requirements
of this grade: Provided, That not more
than oné-haif of ‘this amount, or 5 per-
cent, shall be allowed for defects causing
serious damage, including ‘therein not
more than 1 percent for carrots affected
by soft rot. |

(2) U.S. No. 1 and U.S. No. 1 Jumbo
grades. .Ten percent for carrots in any
lot which fail to meet the requirements
of the grade: Provided, That not more
than one-half of this amount, or 5 per-
cent, shall be allowed for defects caus-
ing serious damage, including therein
not more than 2 percent for carrots
affected by soft rot.

(3) U.S.No. 2 grade. Ten percent for
carrots which fail to meet the require-
ments of this grade, including therein
not more than 2 percent for carrots
‘affected by soft rot.

(b) Of-size. (1) Five percent for
carrots in any. lot which are larger than
the specified maximum diameter; and ~

(2) Ten percent for carrots in any lot
which are smaller than the specified
minimum diameter or shorter than the
specified minimum length.

APPLICATION OF TOLERANCES
§ 51.2366 Application of tolerances.

Individual samples shall not have more
than double the tolerance specified: Pro-
vided, That not more than one carrot
which is frozen or affected by soft rot
may be permitted in any package
weighing approximately 3 pounds or less:
And provided further, That the averages
for the entire lot are within the toler-
ances specified for the’ grade.

SaMPie FoR GRADE DETERMINATION

§ 51.2367 Sample for grade determina-
tion.

Each sample shall consist of 50 carrots. .
‘When individual packages contain at
least 50 carrots, the sample is drawn
from one package; when individual
Packages contain less than 50 carrots,
8 sufficient number of adjoining: pack-
ages are opened to form a 50 carrot
sample.

Stanparp Sizinc

§ 51.2368 Standard sizing.

(a) Packages.of carrots containing 2
Pounds or Jess may be certified as “stand-
ard sizing,” provided the variation in
diameter of the carrots in any individual

package is not more than three-eighths
inch and the variation in length is not
more than 24% inches.

(b) Not more than 10 percent of the
Packages in any lot may fail to meet
the requirements for “standard sizing.”

DeFnurions
§ 51.2369 Similar varietal characteris-
tics, .

“Stmilar’ varietal characteristics”
Means that the carrots in any lot are of
the same general type. For example, car-
rots with a short, but blunt growth like
the Oxheart variety, shall not be mixed
with Iong or half-long carrots like the
Imperator or Danvers varieties.


(1k2)

(143)

(aus)

(145)
(146)

(147)
(148)
(kg)

~ 22 -

"Lot now'fails to grade U. 3. No. 1 due to decay and discoloration
of tops, but roots average 85% U.S. No. 1 quality.”

"Carrots now fail to grade U. 8. No. 1 due to damaged tops but roots
are of U. 3. No. 1 quality." -

More Complete Grade Statement. of Percentage Cars: Frequently, when
a shipment fails to grade U. 8. No. 1, it is desired that the percentage
of U. 8. No. 1 quality now contained in the lot be show. A certificate
covering such a lot gives a detailed description of the lot under the
"Quality and Condition". headings.

The certificate should show as part of the grade statement not only
the percent of U. S. No. 1 quality but also the percentage of decay or other
serious defects of @ progressive character which are restricted by the
grade. However, decay and other serious defects of a progressive nature
need _not be mentioned’ ynder grade when they are within the grade tolerance.
Exemple: "Carrots now fail to grade U. 8. No. 1 only account soft rot
but now average 68% U. 8. No. 1 quality, 54 soft rot affecting roots.”

Size in Connection with the Grade.

When no minimum size is specified in connection with the grade, it is
essuned that the minimum: size is that stated in the grade. However, the
applicant may specify a different minimm size. If undersize carrots ex-
ceed the tolerances either a lower minimum size may be specified in con-
nection with the grade or the lot may be reported as failing to grade
account the excessive undersize stated under the Size heading. Usually the
applicant should be consulted on this as the size description used should
be applicable to his contract to purchase. Remember, when sizes other than
those specified in ths grade are reported, they must be stated in connec-
tion with the grade statement’, thus: "U.S. No. 1, 7/8 inch minimum." When
requested, Standard Bunches and Standard Sizing may be reported in con-
nection with the Grade statement; thus: U. 6. No. 1, Standard Bunches.

REMARKS
Refer to Destination Market Handbook.

GENERAL EXAMPLES

Topped Carrots

1. Size: Generally 1 to 2-1/2, mostly 1-1/4 to 2 inches in diameter

and 3-1/2 to 7, mostly 4 to 6-1/2 inches in length. Average
3% under 1 inch in diameter.

Quality: Stock is feirly clean, smooth to fairly smooth, well trimmed
and generally well to fairly well formed. Fram 7 ta 20%,
average approximately 12% grade defects consisting mostly
of growth crackes and misshapen, some wire worm damage.




count, for carrot roots which are

larger than any specified maximum di-
ameter.

§ 2851.2456 U.S. Commercial.

“U.S. Commercial” consists of car-
rots which meet the requirements of
U.S. No. 1 except for the increased tol-
erance for defects of the roots speci-
fied below:

(a) Tolerances. In order to allow for
variations incident to proper grading
and handling the following tolerances
shall be permitted:

(1) For defects of roots. 20 percent,
by count, for. carrot roots in any lot
which fail to meet the requirements of
the grade, other than for size: Pro-
vided, That not more than one-half of
this amount, or 10 percent, shall be al-
lowed for defects causing serious
damage, including therein not more
than 1 percent for carrot roots affect-
ed by soft rot;

' (2) For defects of tops. 10 percent, by
count, for bunches in any lot which
fail to meet the requirements of the
grade, including therein not more
than 5 percent for decay;

(3) For off-length tops. 25 percent, by
count, for bunches in any lot which
have tops longer than the specified
length; and,

(4) For off-size roots. 5 ‘percent, by
count, for carrot roots in any lot
which are smaller than the specified
minimum diameter, and 10 percent, by
count, for carrot roots which are
larger than any specified maximum di-
ameter.

UNCLASSIFIED

§ 2851.2457 Unclassified.

“Unclassified” consists of carrots
which have not been classified in ac-
cordance with either of the foregoing
grades. The term “unclassified” is not
a grade within the meaning of these
standards, but is provided as a designa-
tion to show that no grade has been
applied to the lot.

APPLICATION OF ‘TOLERANCES

§2851.2458 Application of tolerances.
(a) The contents of individual pack-

ages in the lot, based on sample in-.

spection, are subject to the following

limitations, provided the averages for
the entire lot are within the tolerances
specified for the grade:

(1) For a tolerance of 10 percent or
more, individual packages in any lot
shall have not more than one and one-
half times the tolerance specified,
except that at least one defective and
one off-size specimen may be permit-
ted in a package; and,

(2) For a tolerance of less than 10
percent, individual packages in any lot
shall have not more than double the
tolerance specified, except that at
least one defective and one off-size
specimen may be permitted in a pack-
age.

LencTH oF Tops

§$2851.2459 Length of tops.

In addition to the statement of
grade, the length of tops may be speci-
fied in accordance with the following
length classifications:

Short Medium Long Extra
long
Under 12 12 to 16 Over 16 to Over
inches. inches, 20 inches, 20
inclusive. inclusive. in.

STANDARD BUNCHES

§ 2851.2460 Standard bunches.

(a) When specified as “standard
bunches” the carrots shall meet the
following requirements:

(1) Each bunch of carrots including
tops, shall weigh not less than 1 pound
and contain at least 4 carrots;

(2) When the diameter of the small-
est carrot in the bunch is less than 1%
inches, not over one-fourth inch vari-
ation in the size of carrots in the
bunch shall be permitted;

(3) When the diameter of the small-
est carrot in the bunch is 1% to 1%
inches, inclusive, not over three-
eighths inch variation in the size of
carrots in the bunch shall be permit-
ted; and,

(4) When the diameter of the small-
est carrot in the bunch is larger than
1% inches, not over one-half inch vari-
ation in the size of carrots in the
bunch shall be permitted.


4

$51.2497 Diameter. “Diaracter”
means the greatest dimension of the root
measured at right angles to the longl-
tudinal axis. :

$51.2498 Serious damage. “Serious
damage” means any defect which seri-
ously affects the appearance, or the
edible or shipping quality of the individ-
ual carrot or the general appearance of
the carrots in the container, or causes
& loss of more than 20 percent, by weight,
in the ordinary preparation for use.

Dated: Avcusr 12, 1954.

{szau] Roy W.. LENNARTSON,
Deputy Administrator.
Marketing Services.
UF... Doc. 54-6408; Filed, Aug. 17, 1954;
8:53 a. mj

‘YTU.S. GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE: 1987 - 71-00-0228


- 95 -

TABLE OF STZE REQUIREMENTS (152)
Max. Top
Min. Max. Min. Length or
U. 8. Standards Diam. Diem Length Leafstems
Topped - UeB. Extra No.2 3/4" a-tfo" 5" a"
US. Noo 1&2 1" 3" 3" 1"
Bunched - U.B. No, 1 and
U. 8. Com'l. 3/4" oo () 20"
Short Trimmed
Tops - U. 8. No. 1 and
U. 8. Can’l. 3/4" (+) [) an
TABLE OF TOLERANCES FOR CARROTS (153)
Tolerances for Roots | Tolezanoee, for Tone
; ge |. ie
% : = H S Jae
a JB] aise] 2 138
2ldlala |S] dlegls [as
gle dels ja] sl8S{e [38
U. 8. standards B (eg 1812 |2| Elgs| 8 {85
Topped - U.S. Ext: . u ae en ee
Ualno lig | Al wl BY Abid of co]
U.S. No. 2 106 | 106] of] 5% | Se]face] ---| --- | ---
Bunched- U. 8. No. 1 10% 56] 16] 56 |---| 106 | 106] 54 | 25%
U. 8. Com. 20%, | 106] 16] 5% 106 | 106] 5% | 25%
Short - U. 8. No. 1 L 1 1
Primed 9. 8. Om zx | axl | | foe | % | ig
eo

eRe eH



-9-
B. Bunched Carrots

1. Size of Roots. The U. S. No. 1 grade provides that unless
“otherwise spécified” the diameter of each carrot shall not be less than
3/4 inch. The tolerances apecify that not more than 5% by count may be
velow.the specified minimum diameter and not more than 10%, by court,
may not meet any maximum diameter which may be specified in connection
with the grade. In case a minimum size other than that provided in the
grade is specified, the same tolerance will apply.

-.In reporting size, ordinarily state the range in diameter; and,
if the range is over 3/4 of an inch, a "mostly" may be shown, provided
that definitely more than 55% is covered in the “mostly" range. Extreme
cere should be exercised to see that the “mostly” range represents con-
spicuously the greater portion of the lot. When reporting size, the
occasional specimen that is outside the general range should be ignored
in showing the range. These outside specimens can be covered by the use
of the term “generally” preceding the range. Thus: "Generally 3/4 to

2-1/4, mostly 1 to 2 inches in diameter;" or, if the actual size is
desired, as follows: "Average 10% under 1 inch including 2% urider 3/4
inch, 70% 1 to 1-1/2 inches, ere from 1-1/2 to 2-1/4 inches in diameter."
The diameter of carrots may be reported to eighths of an inch, if nec-
essary, to accurately describe their size.

Length of Roots. If a specific request is made, the range of
length of roots may be reported, however, this is not a factor in the
grade. If the range is over 2 inches, e "mostly" may. be reported to indi-
cate over 55% of the lot.

Size Classification of Roots. There is no size classification
of roots in any of the U. 8. Standards for carrots. Inspectors should
report size of roots only in diameters and length. Requests for inspec-
tions on the basis of small, medium and large should be declined.

2. Length of Tops.

The U. S. No. 1 grade specifies "...........-the length of tops
shall be not more than 20 inches, unless otherwise specified" and that
".eecees- unless otherwise specified, the bunches shall have full tops.”
Not more than an average of 25% of the bunches may have tops longer than
the specified length; however, individual packages may contain as high as
37.5% of tops over the specified length.

The length of tops may be designated as "short," "medium,"
“long" or “extra long" or a combination of these length designations may
be used. If these length of top terms are to be used, the inspector
should refer to the definitions of these terms in the grade.

Most bunched carrots have full tops so this fact need not be
stated.. If the tops have been clipped or are not full, this fact should
be stated thus: "Tops clipped to 16 inches."

(55)
(56)

(57)

(58)

(59)

(60)
(61)

(62)

(63)


(79)

(80)

* (81)

(82)

(83)

(84)

* (85)

-R-

(1). Form sha: ’ The shape of carrots is to be described by the use of
the terms we Peommed, slightly misshapen, badly miesbapen end seriously

‘ misshapen. They are defined as follows:

Well formed means that the carrot is not forked or misshaper
to the extent that its appeatance is more than Slightly affected. Well
formed is the minimum _shape requirement of U. 8. Extra No. 1 Topped
Carrots and of all of the Bunched Carrots, Short Trimmed Top Carrots
and Consumer Stendard Grades. : toe

. Sante misshapen describes carrots that cannot be considered
“well formed are not ‘sufficiently misshapen to be classed as "badly

misshapen." This term can be used to describe carrots that are passable’
for shape as U. S.No. 1, Topped Carrote but will not meet the require -
ments of U. S. Extra No. 1, Topped Carrots, or the Bunched Carrots,
Carrots with Short Trimmed Tops and Consumer Standard Grades.

Badly qeeebanee means that the carrots are forked or misshepen
(by being twisted, crooked or badly curved) to the extent that their ap-
pearance is materially affected. “et body mies misshapen" is the minimm
shape requirement the U. S, No. 1 rot grade. Badly misshapen
carrots should be scored | as defects in ell grades except U.S. No..2
Topped Carrots: ~

Seriously misshapen meand that the carrot is forked or misshapen
to the extent that the appearance is seriously affected. The minimum
shape requirement of the U. 8. No. 2 oe Carrot grade is "not seriously"

_ misshapen. Seriously misshapen carrote are defects of all grades.

The official photographs should be referred to for guidance in the

_interpretation of the above terms describing shape. Shape is scored on
ithe basis of appearance only as illustrated by the official photographs.

Waste is not a factor in scoring shape. Carrots that are not sufficientiy
off-shape to be scored as grade defects should be described by the above
terms, usually in connection with the general quantity terme, thus:
"Generally well formed" or "Mostly well formed,-many slightly misshapen".

(2) Smoothness. The U. 8. Extra No. 1 grade for Topped Carrots and all
of the U. S. No. 1 grades specify that the carrots must be fdirly snooth,
also Grade A and B of the Consumer Standards require the carrots to be
fairly .amboth. This is defined as meaning that the carrots are not
rough, ridged or covered with secondary rootlets to the extent that the
appearance is materially affected. However, since shape and smoothness
are more or less related, inspectors should consider the two factors
together when scoring carrots. Therefore a stricter interpretation
should be given the term "fairly smooth" when scoring under grades which
require the carrots to be well formed than when scoring under grades
which only require the carrote to be "fairly smooth and not badly
misshapen."