United States

Department of

Agriculture

Agricultural

Marketing

Service

Fruit and

Vegetable

Division

Processed

Products 

Branch

United States

Standards for

Grades of

Canned Apricots

and Canned

Solid-Pack Apricots

Effective May 12, 1976
This is the fifth issue, as amended, of the United States Standards for Grades of

Canned Apricots and Canned Solid-Pack Apricots published in the Federal Register of

April 9, 1976, (41 FR 15016) to become effective May 12, 1976. This issue supersedes

the fifth issue, which has been in effect since April 1, 1974.

Voluntary U.S. grade standards are issued under the authority of the Agricultural

Marketing Act of 1946, which provides for the development of official U.S. grades to

designate different levels of quality. These grade standards are available for use by

producers, suppliers, buyers, and consumers. As in the case of other standards for

grades of processed fruits and vegetables, these standards are designed to facilitate

orderly marketing by providing a convenient basis for buying and selling, for

establishing quality control programs, and for determining loan values.

The standards also serve as a basis for the inspection and grading of commodities by

the Federal inspection service, the only activity authorized to approve the designation

of U.S. grades as referenced in the standards, as provided under the Agricultural

Marketing Act of 1946. This service, available as on-line (in-plant) or lot inspection and

grading of all processed fruit and vegetable products, is offered to interested parties,

upon application, on a fee-for-service basis. The verification of some specific

recommendations, requirements, or tolerances contained in the standards can be

accomplished only by the use of on-line inspection procedures. In all instances, a

grade can be assigned based on final product factors or characteristics.

In addition to the U.S. grade standards, grading manuals or instructions for inspection

of several processed fruits and vegetables are available upon request for a nominal

fee. These manuals or instructions contain detailed interpretations of the grade

standards and provide step-by-step procedures for grading the product.

Grade standards are issued by the Department after careful consideration of all data

and views submitted, and the Department welcomes suggestions which might aid in

improving the standards in future revisions. Comments may be submitted to, and

copies of standards and grading manuals obtained from:

Chief, Processed Products Branch

Fruit and Vegetable Division, AMS

U.S. Department of Agriculture

P.O. Box 96456, Rm. 0709, So. Bldg.

Washington, D.C. 20090-6456
UNITED STATES STANDARDS FOR GRADES OF

CANNED APRICOTS

EFFECTIVE MAY 12, 1976

Section Page No.

§52.2641 Product description. ....................................... 2

§52.2642 Styles. .................................................. 2

§52.2643 Grades. ................................................. 2

§52.2644 Liquid media and brix measurements. ......................... 4

§52.2645 Recommended fill of container. ............................... 4

§52.2646 Recommended minimum drained weights. ...................... 5

§52.2647 Recommended minimum fill weights. .......................... 8

§52.2648 Sample unit size. .......................................... 11

§52.2650 Ascertaining the rating for the factors which are scored. ........... 12

§52.2651 Color. .................................................. 12

§52.2652 Uniformity of size and symmetry. ............................. 14

§52.2653 Defects. ................................................. 15

§52.2654 Character. ............................................... 18

§52.2655 Allowance for quality factors ................................. 21

§52.2656 Ascertaining the grade of a lot. ............................... 23

§52.2657 Score sheet for canned apricots. ............................. 24

Authority: Agricultural Marketing Act of 1946, Secs. 203, 205, 60 Stat. 1087, as

amended, 1090, as amended (7 U.S.C. 1622, 1624).

Note: 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.
2

§52.2641 Product description.

(a) Canned apricots is the product represented as defined in the Standard of

Identity for canned apricots (21 CFR 145.115) issued pursuant to the

Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, and prepared in one of the styles

specified in §52.2642; in one of the liquid media specified in §52.2644;

and is sealed in a container and so processed by heat as to prevent

spoilage.

The food may be seasoned with one or more of the optional ingredients permitted in the

Food and Drug Standards of Identity.

§52.2642 Styles.

(a) Halves are pitted apricots cut approximately in half along the suture from

stem to apex.

(b) Slices are pitted apricots cut into thin sectors or strips.

(c) Whole is unpitted apricots with stems removed.

(d) Pieces or irregular pieces are cut apricot units that are predominantly

irregular in size and shape which do not conform to a single style, or

which are a mixture of two or more of such styles.

(e) When the apricots are unpeeled, the name of the style is preceded or

followed by the word unpeeled.

(f) When the apricots are peeled, the name of the style is preceded or

followed by the word peeled.

§52.2643 Grades.

(a) U. S. Grade A or U. S. Fancy is the quality of halves, slices, and whole

canned apricots, that:

(1) have similar varietal characteristics;

(2) have a normal flavor and odor;

(3) have at least a reasonably good color that score not less than 

17 points;
3

(4) Are at least reasonably uniform in size and symmetry for the

applicable styles except for limits of off - suture cuts in the style of

halves;

(5) Are practically free from defects;

(6) Have at least a reasonably good character; and

(7) Score not less than 90 points when scored in accordance with the

scoring system outlined in this subpart.

(b) U. S. Grade B or U. S. Choice is the quality of canned apricots that:

(1) have similar varietal characteristics;

(2) have a normal flavor and odor;

(3) have a least a reasonably good color;

(4) are at least fairly uniform in size and symmetry for the applicable

styles except for the limits of off-suture cuts in the style of halves;

(5) are at least reasonably free from defects;

(6) have at least a reasonably good character; and

(7) for those factors which are scored in accordance with the scoring

system outlined in this subpart the total score is not less than

80 points.

(c) U.S. Grade C or U.S. Standard is the quality of canned apricots of any

style that:

(1) have a similar varietal characteristics;

(2) have a normal flavor and odor;

(3) have at least a fairly good color;

(4) are at least fairly uniform in size and symmetry for the applicable

style.

(5) are at least fairly free from defects;
4

(6) have at least a fairly good character; and 

(7) for those factors which are scored in accordance with the scoring

system outlined in this subpart the total score is not less than

70 points.

(d) Substandard is the quality of canned apricots that fail to meet the

requirements of U. S. Grade C.

§52.2644 Liquid media and brix measurements.

Cut - out requirements for liquid media in canned apricots are not incorporated in the

grades of the finished product since sirup or any other liquid medium, as such, is not a

factor of quality for the purposes if these grades. The designations of liquid packing

media and the brix measurements, where applicable, are as follows:

Designations Brix Measurements

Extra heavy sirup; or Extra heavily

sweetened fruit juice(s) and water or

Extra heavily sweetened fruit juice(s).

25E or more but not more than 40E

Heavy sirup or Heavily sweetened fruit

juices(s) and water; or Heavily

sweetened fruit juice(s).

21E or more but less than 25E

Light sirup or Lightly sweetened fruit

juice(s) and water; or Lightly

sweetened fruit juice(s).

16E or more but less than 21E

Slightly sweetened water; or Extra

light sirup; or Slightly sweetened fruit

juice(s) and water; or Slightly

sweetened fruit juice(s).

10E or more but less than 16E

In water

In fruit juice(s) and water

In fruit juice(s)

Artificially sweetened

Not applicable

Not applicable

Not applicable

Not applicable

§52.2645 Recommended fill of container.

The standard of fill of container for canned apricots is the maximum quantity of the

apricot units which can be sealed in the container and processed by heat to prevent

spoilage, without crushing or breaking such ingredient. Canned apricots that do not
5

meet this requirements are Below Standard in Fill.

§52.2646 Recommended minimum drained weights.

(a) General.

(1) The minimum drained weight recommendations for the various

styles in Table II are not incorporated in the grades of the finished

product since drained weight, as such, is not a factor of quality for

the purposes of these grades.

(2) The recommended minimum drained weights are based on

equalization of the product 30 days or more after the product has

been canned.

(b) Definitions of symbols.

(1) - the minimum average drained weight of all the sample units

in the sample.

(2) - Lower limit for the drained weight of an individual sample

unit.

(c) Method for ascertaining drained weight. The drained weight is

determined by emptying the contents of the container, turning the pit

cavities down in halves, upon a U. S. Standard No. 8 circular sieve of

proper diameter containing 8 meshes to the inch (0.0937 + 3 percent,

square openings) so as to distribute the product evenly, inclining the sieve

to a 17 to 20 degree angle to facilitate drainage, and allowing the product

to drain for two minutes.

The drained weight is the weight of the sieve and apricots less the weight

of the dry sieve. A sieve of 8 inches in diameter is used for No. 3 size

cans (404 x 414) and smaller sizes, and a sieve 12 inches in diameter is

used for containers larger that No. 3 size can.

(d) Compliance with recommended minimum drained weights. A lot of

canned apricots is considered as meeting the minimum drained weight

recommendations if the following criteria are met:

(1) The average of the drained weights from all the sample units in the

sample meets the recommended average drained weight

(designated as in Table II); and
6

(2) The number of sample units which fail to meet the recommended

minimum drained weight for individuals (designated as ) in

Table II does not exceed the applicable acceptance number

specified in Table I.

Table I

Single Sampling Plan for Drained Weights

Sample size (Number of sample units) 3 6 13 21 29 38 48 60

Acceptance Number 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
TABLE II - RECOMMENDED MINIMUM DRAINED WEIGHTS FOR CANNED APRICOTS

Container size (metal, unless

otherwise stated)

In extra heavy and heavy sirups

Unpeeled or peeled

halves; slices; pieces or

irregular pieces

Whole unpeeled Whole unpeeled

Designation Dimensions

oz oz oz oz oz oz

5Z ............. 211 x 200 2.1 2.7 ........ ........ ........ .........

5Z ............. 211 x 202 2.4 3.0 ........ ........ ........ .........

7Z ............. 211 x 212 3.4 4.0 ........ ........ ........ .........

8Z Tall ......... 211 x 304 4.2 4.8 3.7 4.3 3.8 4.5

No. 300 ......... 300 x 407 7.9 8.6 6.8 7.6 7.2 8.0

No. 303 glass .... ............ 8.7 9.5 7.6 8.5 8.0 8.9

No. 303 ......... 303 x 406 8.7 9.5 7.6 8.5 8.0 8.9

No. 2 ........... 307 x 409 10.6 11.5 9.6 10.5 9.8 10.8

No. 2-1/2 glass ... ............ 15.2 16.3 13.6 14.9 13.9 15.2

No. 2-1/2 ........ 401 x 411 15.5 16.7 13.8 15.1 14.4 15.7

No. 10 .......... 603 x 700 59.7 62.0 57.5 60.0 57.9 60.4

In any other liquid medium

5Z ............. 211 x 200 2.2 2.8 ........ ........ ........ .........

5Z ............. 211 x 202 2.5 3.1 ........ ........ ........ .........

7Z ............. 211 x 212 3.5 4.1 ........ ........ ........ .........

8Z Tall ......... 211 x 304 4.3 4.9 3.8 4.4 3.9 4.6

No. 300 ......... 300 x 407 8.1 8.8 7.0 7.8 7.4 8.2

No. 303 glass .... ............ 8.9 9.7 7.8 8.7 8.2 9.1

No. 303 ......... 303 x 406 8.9 9.7 7.8 8.7 8.2 9.1

No. 2 ........... 307 x 409 10.9 11.8 9.7 10.7 10.1 11.1

No. 2-1/2 glass ... ............ 15.7 16.8 14.0 15.3 14.3 15.6

No. 2-1/2 ........ 401 x 411 16.0 17.2 14.2 15.5 14.8 16.1

No. 10 .......... 603 x 700 61.7 64.0 59.0 61.5 59.5 62.0
§52.2647 Recommended minimum fill weights.

(a) General. The minimum fill weight recommendations for the various styles in Table III are not incorporated

in the grades of the finished product since fill weights, as such, is not a factor of quality for the purposes of

these grades.

(b) Method for ascertaining fill weight. The fill weight of canned apricots is determined in accordance with

the U. S. Department of Agriculture's U. S. Standards for Inspection by Variables and the U. S. Standards

for Determination of Fill Weights.

(c) Definitions of terms and symbols. Subgroup means a group of sample units representing a portion of a

sample.

(1) means the minimum lot average fill weight.

(2) means the lower warning limit for subgroup averages.

(3) means the lower reject limit for subgroup averages.

(4) means the lower warning limit for individual fill weight measurements.

(5) means the lower reject limit for individual fill weight measurements.

(6) means a specified average range value.

(7) means a specified maximum range for a subgroup.

(d) Compliance with recommended fill weights. Compliance with recommended fill weights for canned

apricots shall be in accordance with the acceptance criteria specified in the U. S. Department of

Agriculture's U. S. Standards for Inspection by Variables and U. S. Standards for

Determination of Fill Weights.
9

TABLE III - RECOMMENDED FILL WEIGHTS FOR CANNED APRICOTS

Container size (metal, unless

otherwise stated)

Unpeeled or peeled halves - Fill weights values

X '

_

min LWL-X

LRLxLWL LRL R '

-

Rmax SAC*

Designation Dimensions oz oz oz oz oz oz oz

5Z 211 x 200 3.0 2.6 2.4 2.2 1.8 0.9 2.0 G

5Z 211 x 202 3.3 2.9 2.7 2.5 2.1 0.9 2.0 G

7Z 211 x 212 4.4 3.9 3.7 3.4 2.9 1.2 2.5 I

8Z Tall 211 x 304 5.3 4.8 4.6 4.3 3.8 1.2 2.5 I

No.300 300 x 407 9.4 8.9 8.6 8.3 7.7 1.3 2.7 J

No. 303 glass --- 10.4 9.9 9.6 9.2 8.6 1.4 3.0 K

No. 303 303 x 406 10.4 9.9 9.6 9.2 8.6 1.4 3.0 K

No. 2 307 x 409 12.6 12.0 11.6 11.2 10.5 1.6 3.4 M

No. 2 1⁄2 glass --- 18.0 17.2 16.8 16.2 15.3 2.1 4.4 Q

No. 2 1⁄2 401 x 411 18.4 17.6 17.2 16.6 15.7 2.1 4.4 Q

No. 10 603 x 700 69.5 68.2 67.5 66.5 65.0 3.5 7.4 X

Whole unpeeled - Fill weight values

8Z Tall 4.6 4.1 3.8 3.5 2.9 1.3 2.7 J

No. 300 8.3 7.7 7.4 7.0 6.3 1.5 3.2 L

No. 303 glass 9.2 8.6 8.2 7.8 7.1 1.6 3.4 M

No. 303 9.2 8.6 8.2 7.8 7.1 1.6 3.4 M

No. 2 11.4 10.7 10.3 9.8 9.0 1.9 3.9 O

No. 21⁄2 glass 16.2 15.3 14.8 14.2 13.2 2.3 4.9 S

No. 21⁄2 16.5 15.6 15.1 14.5 13.5 2.3 4.9 S

No. 10 65.0 63.5 62.7 61.6 59.9 4.0 8.4 Z
10

TABLE III - (CONTINUATION)

Container size (metal,

unless otherwise stated)

Whole peeled - Fill weights values

X '

_

min LWL-X

LRLxLWL LRL R '

-

R

max

SAC*

Designation Dimensions oz oz oz oz oz oz oz

8Z Tall 5.0 4.5 4.2 3.9 3.3 1.3 2.7 J

No.300 8.9 8.3 8.0 7.6 6.9 1.5 3.2 L

No. 303

glass

9.9 9.3 8.9 8.5 7.8 1.6 3.4 M

No. 303 9.9 9.3 8.9 8.5 7.8 1.6 3.4 M

No. 2 12.0 11.3 10.9 10.4 9.6 1.9 3.9 O

No. 2 1⁄2

glass

17.0 16.1 15.6 15.0 14.0 2.3 4.9 S

No. 2 1⁄2 17.5 16.6 16.1 15.5 14.5 2.3 4.9 S

No. 10 66.5 65.0 64.2 63.1 61.4 4.0 8.4 Z

Peeled or unpeeled sliced - Fill weight values

5Z 211 x 200 3.2 2.9 2.7 2.5 2.1 0.8 1.7 F

5Z 211 x 202 3.5 3.2 3.0 2.8 2.4 0.8 1.7 F

7Z 211 x 212 4.7 4.3 4.1 3.8 3.3 1.1 2.2 H

8Z Tall 211 x 304 5.6 5.2 5.0 4.7 4.2 1.1 2.2 H

No. 300 300 x 407 9.9 9.4 9.2 8.9 8.4 1.2 2.5 I

No. 303

glass

--------- 11.0 10.6 10.2 9.9 9.3 1.3 2.7 J

No. 303 303 x 406 11.0 10.6 10.2 9.9 9.3 1.3 2.7 J

No. 2 307 x 409 13.3 12.8 12.5 12.1 11.5 1.4 3.0 K

No. 21⁄2 glass --------- 19.0 18.3 18.0 17.5 16.7 1.7 3.7 N

No. 21⁄2 401 x 411 19.4 18.7 18.4 17.9 17.1 1.7 3.7 N

No. 10 603 x 700 72.5 71.3 70.7 69.9 68.6 3.0 6.4 V

Pieces or irregular pieces - Fill weight values

No. 2 1⁄2 18.7 17.9 17.5 16.9 16.0 2.1 4.4 Q

No. 10 70.5 69.2 68.5 67.5 66.0 3.5 7.4 X

* Sampling allowance code.
11

§52.2648 Sample unit size.

Compliance with requirements for the various quality factors is based on the following

sample unit sizes:

(a) Halves - 50 halves.

(b) Whole - 25 whole apricots. In the case of the factor of color and the

factor of defects, only with respect to minor defects, a whole apricot shall

be considered halved along the suture and each half therefrom is a unit

and the sample unit size thereby becomes 50 halves.

(c) Slices - 50 slices.

(d) Pieces or irregular pieces - 30 ounces drained fruit of finished product or

33 ounces raw fruit for on - line control.

§52.2649 Ascertaining the grade.

(a) General. In addition to considering other requirements outlined in the

standards, the following quality factors are evaluated:

(1) Factors not rated by score points.

(i) Varietal characteristics.

(ii) Flavor and odor.

(2) Factors rated by score points. The relative importance of each

factor which is scored is expressed numerically on the scale of 100. 

The maximum number of points that may be given such factors are:
12

Halves,Whole

Points

Slices

Points

Pieces or irregular 

pieces

Points

Color 20 20 20

Uniformity of size

and symmetry

20 -- --

Defects 30 30 40

Character 30 30 40

Total score 100 80 x 100

80

100

(b) Definition of flavor and odor. Normal flavor and odor means that the

canned apricots are free from objectionable flavors and objectionable

odors of any kind.

§52.2650 Ascertaining the rating for the factors which are scored.

The essential variations within each factor which is scored is so described that the

value may be ascertained for each factor and expressed numerically. The numerical

range within each factor which is scored is inclusive (for example, 18 to 20 points

means 18, 19, or 20 points).

§52.2651 Color.

(a) General.

(1) The color of canned apricots refers to the characteristic color of the

outer, uncut surfaces of the units; and the varying degrees of pale

yellow areas, light greenish - yellow areas, and light green areas.

(2) In evaluating the factor of color for canned spiced apricots

consideration is given to any effect the added spices may

contribute to the color.
13

(b) Definitions.

(1) Well colored. Well colored means that the units have a bright

typical color characteristic of well - matured apricots. The units

may have pale yellow areas not exceeding one - fourth of the outer

surface area and are free from brown color due to oxidation,

improper processing, or other causes.

(2) Reasonably well colored. Reasonably well colored means that

the units have a color typical of reasonably well matured apricots. 

The units may have pale yellow areas not exceeding one - half of

the outer surface area or may have light greenish - yellow areas

not exceeding one - fourth of the outer surfaces area and are free

from brown color due to oxidation, improper processing, or other

causes.

(3) Fairly well colored. Fairly well colored means that the units have

a typical color characteristics of fairly well matured apricots. The

units may have pale yellow areas, may have light greenish - yellow

area, or have light green areas not exceeding one - fourth of the

outer surface areas. The units may have a slight brown color due

to oxidation, improper processing, or other causes.

(4) Poorly colored. Poorly colored means that the units have light

greenish-yellow areas exceeding one-half of the outer surface

area, 

or light green areas exceeding one-fourth of the outer surface area,

and/or may have more than a slight brown color due to oxidation,

improper processing, or other causes.

(c) "A" classification. Halves, slices, and whole canned apricots that

possess a good color may be given a score of 18 to 20 points. Good

color means that the apricots are well - colored; the sample unit as a

mass is practically uniform in color, and the number of units that may be

reasonably well colored does not exceed the number specified for the

style in §52.2655.

(d) "B" classification. Halves, slices, and whole canned apricots that

possess a reasonably good color may be given a score of 16 to 17 points. 

Canned apricots of these styles that score 16 points shall not be graded

above U.S. Grade B, regardless of the total score for the product (this is a

limiting rule). Canned apricots of pieces or irregular pieces that have at

least a reasonably good color maybe given a score of 16 to 20 points. 
14

Reasonably good color means that the apricots are at least reasonably

well colored; the sample unit as a mass is reasonably uniform in color;

and the number of units that may be fairly well colored does not exceed

the number for the specified for the style in §52.2655.

(e) "C" classification. Canned apricots of any style that possess a fairly

good color may be given a score of 14 or 15 points. Canned apricots that

fall into this classification shall not be graded above U. S. Grade C,

regardless of the total score for the product (this is a limiting rule). Fairly

good color means that the apricots are fairly well colored; the sample unit

as a mass is fairly uniform in color, and the number of poorly colored units

does not exceed the number specified for the style in §52.2655.

(f) "SStd" classification. Canned apricots that fail to meet the color

requirements for Grade C may be given a score of 0 to 13 points and shall

not be graded above Substandard, regardless of the total score for the

product (this is a limiting rule).

§52.2652 Uniformity of size and symmetry.

(a) General. The factor of uniformity of size and symmetry for the styles of

slices and pieces or irregular pieces is not based on any detailed

requirement and is not scored; the other three factors (color, defects, and

character as applicable) are scored and for the style of slices, the total is

multiplied by 100 and divided by 80, dropping any fractions to determine

the total score. Uniformity of size and symmetry for the styles of halves

and whole pertains to the percent by which the weight of the smallest full

sized unit. In the style of halves, this factor pertains to the number if off -

suture cuts and detached or partially detached pieces. A unit that

possess an off -suture cut and is scoreable as such and in addition

possesses a partially detached piece is scored as a partially detached

piece, not both.

(b) Definitions.

(1) Off - suture cut. Off - suture cut in the style of halves means a

halved unit which has been cut at a distances from the suture

greater than one - fourth inch at the widest measurement from the

suture.

(2) Detached piece. Detached piece is a piece in the style of halves

which has the appearance of a slice resulting from an off - suture

cut or improper cutting that is completely separated from which cut.
15

(3) Partially detached piece. Partially detached piece in the style of

halves, is a piece which has the appearance of a slice resulting

from an off - suture cut or improper cutting and is detached more

than one - third the length of the half along the suture or

approximately parallel with the suture.

A partially detached piece, together with the unit to which it is

attached, is considered as one unit.

(c) "A" classification. The styles if halves and whole canned apricots that

are practically uniform in size and symmetry may be given a score of 18 to

20 points. Practically uniform in size and symmetry means that the

number of units that exceed the maximum weight variation, the number of

detached or partially detached pieces in the style of halves, and/or the

number of units of halves that possess off - suture cuts do not exceed the

applicable number specified in §52.2655.

(d) "B" classification. The styles of halves and whole canned apricots that

are reasonably uniform in size and symmetry may be given a score of 16

to 17 points. A sample unit of the style of halves that possess more than

5 units which have off - suture cuts shall not be graded above U.S. Grade

B, regardless of the total score for the product (this is a limiting rule). 

Reasonably uniform in size and symmetry means that the number of

units that exceed the maximum weight variation, the number of detached

or partially detached pieces, and/or the number of units of halves that

possess off - suture cut do not exceed the applicable number specified in

§52.2655.

(e) "C" classification. The styles of halves and whole canned apricots that

are fairly uniform in size and symmetry may be given a score of 14 to 15

points. Canned apricots that fall into this classification shall not be

graded above U. S. Grade B, regardless of the total score for the product

(this is a limiting rule). Fairly uniform in size and symmetry means that

the units may vary in size, thickness, and symmetry; and that the number

of units that exceed the maximum weight variation, the number of

detached or partially detached pieces, and/or the number of units of

halves style that possess off - suture cuts do not exceed the applicable

number specified in §52.2655.

(f) "SStd" classification. Canned apricots that fail to meet the uniformity of

size and symmetry requirements for Grade C may be given a score of 0 to

13 points and shall not be graded above Substandard, regardless of the

total score for the product (this is a limiting rule).
16

§52.2653 Defects.

(a) General. The factor of defects refers to the degree of freedom from pit

material, loose pits, harmless extraneous material, short stems, peel,

minor blemishes, major blemishes, and crushed or broken units.

Canned whole apricots shall be considered as halved along the suture

and each half therefrom is considered a separate unit in evaluating the

factor of defects with respect to minor blemished only. Each whole apricot

shall be considered as a separate unit in ascertaining compliance with

allowance for major blemishes.

(b) Definitions.

(1) Harmless extraneous material. Harmless extraneous material

means any harmless vegetable substance (such as, but not limited

to, a leaf or portion thereof, or a large stem) that is harmless.

(2) Short stem. A short stem means the short, thick, woody, stem

which attaches the apricot to the twig of the tree or other stem

material of equivalent woodiness and shortness.

(3) Pit material. Pit material means any whole pit in all styles other

than whole styles or any other portion of an apricot pit, regardless

of size, except when whole apricot pits or apricot kernels are

declared as seasoning ingredients in other than whole styles.

(4) Loose pit. A "loose pit" means a whole, unbroken pit not

adhering to the flesh of a unit in the styles of whole apricots.

(5) Minor blemish. Minor blemish in unpeeled styles includes

freckles: and also means:

(i) Light brown to brown surface areas which, singly or in

combination on a unit, exceed in the aggregate the area of a

circle c inch (3mm) in diameter but do not exceed in the

aggregate the area of a circle 1⁄4 inch (6mm) in diameter; or

(ii) Single dark brown surface areas that do not exceed the area

of a circle c inch (3mm) in diameter but which, singly or in

combination with other minor blemishes on a unit, affect

materially but not seriously the appearance of the unit. Light

brown to brown surface areas and freckles that are

insignificant and less than the area of a circle c inch (3mm)
17

in diameter and which do not affect materially the

appearance of the unit area not considered defects.

(6) Major blemish. Major blemish in canned apricots includes units

affected by scab, hail injury, discoloration, or other abnormalities in

the following degree:

(i) Light brown to brown surface areas in unpeeled styles which

singly or in combination on a unit, exceed in the aggregate

the area of a circle 1⁄4 inch (6mm) in diameter:

(ii) Blemishes that extend into the fruit tissue regardless of area

or depth:

(iii) Single dark brown surface areas in unpeeled styles that

exceed the area of a circle c inch (3mm) in diameter,

whether or not the unit is affected by minor blemishes; or

(iv) Any blemish whether or not specifically defined or mentioned

in this subparagraph which affects seriously the appearance

of the unit but is not a filthy or decomposed substance.

(7) Crushed or broken. Crushed or broken means that:

(i) A unit in halves or whole style of canned apricots is crushed

if the unit has definitely lost its normal shape and is crushed

not due to ripeness; and

(ii) A unit in halves or whole style of canned apricots is broken

if severed into definite parts; halves of canned apricots that

are slightly or partially split or mashed from the edge to the

pit cavity are not considered broken, or units in the style of

peeled whole apricots that are mashed or very soft due to

ripeness to the extent that the pit cavity is exposed or a seed

missing therefrom, are not crushed or broken. Portions 

equivalent to a full-sized unit that has been broken are

considered as one unit in determining compliance with the

allowance for this defect.

(c) "A" classification. Halves, slices, and whole canned apricots that are

practically free from defects may be given a score of 27 to 30 points. 

Practically free from defects means that:

(1) The amount of peel that may be present in peeled styles does not
18

exceed the amount specified in §52.2655; and

(2) The number of other defects that may be present does not exceed

the number specified for the applicable style in §52.2655.

(d) "B" classification. Halves, slices, and whole canned apricots that are

reasonably free from defects may be given a score of 24 to 26 points. 

Canned apricots of pieces or irregular pieces that are at least reasonably

free from defects may be given a score of 32 to 40 points. Canned

apricots of any style that fall into this classification shall not be grade

above U.S. Grade B, regardless of the total score for the product (this is a

limiting rule). Reasonably free from defects means that:

(1) The amount of peel that may be present in peeled styles does not

exceed the amount specified in §52.2655;

(2) With respect to all styles, the number of other defects that may be

present does not exceed the number specified for the applicable

style in §52.2655.

(e) "C" classification. Halves, slices, and whole canned apricots that are

fairly free from defects may be given a score of 21 to 23 points. Canned

apricots of pieces or irregular pieces that are fairly free from defects may

be given a score of 28 to 31 points. Canned apricots of any style that fall

into this classification shall not be graded above U. S. Grade C,

regardless of the total score for the product (this is a limiting rule). Fairly

free from defects means that:

(1) The amount of peel that may be present in peeled styles does not

exceed the amount specified in §52.2655; or

(2) With respect to all styles, the number of other defects that may be

present does not exceed the number specified for the applicable

style in §52.2655.

(f) "SStd" classification. Canned apricots that fail to meet the requirements

for Grade C may be given a score of 0 to 20 points for the styles of

halves, slices, and whole and 0 to 27 points for pieces or irregular pieces,

and shall not be graded above Substandard, regardless of the total score

for the product (this is a limiting rule).

§52.2654 Character.
19

(a) General. The factor of character refers to the degree of ripeness, the

texture, and condition of the flesh, the firmness and tenderness of the

canned apricots and their tendency to retain their apparent original

conformation and size without disintegration.

(b) Definitions.

(1) Good character. Good character means that the units have a

practically uniform tender, fleshy texture, typical of well - ripened,

properly prepared and properly processed canned apricots: the

units may be soft but hold their original conformation and size

without material disintegration.

(2) Reasonably good character. Reasonably good character

means that the units have a reasonably uniform, reasonably tender

texture typical of properly ripened canned apricots that are properly

processed; the texture is reasonably fleshy, and the units are

reasonably thick but the tenderness may be variable within the unit

or among the units; the units may be soft to slightly firm, but are not

mushy, and may be slightly ragged.

(3) Fairly good character. Fairly good character means that the

units have a texture of properly processed apricots which may be

variable in fleshiness but the texture is fairly fleshy; the units may

be lacking uniformity of tenderness; the units may be very soft to

moderately firm, and markedly ragged with frayed edges.

(4) Poor character. Poor character means the units may be lacking

in fleshiness; may not be tender or may be very firm or may be

mushy.

(c) "A" classification. Halves, slices, and whole canned apricots that have

a good character may be given a score of 27 to 30 points. To score in this

classification, the number of units that possess reasonably good character

does not exceed the number specified for the style in §52.2655.

(d) "B" classification. Halves, slices, and whole canned apricots that

possess a reasonably good character may be given a score of 24 to 26

points. Canned apricots of pieces or irregular pieces that possess at least

a reasonably good character may be given a score of 32 to 40 points and

shall not be graded above U. S. Grade B, regardless of the total score for

the product (this is a limiting rule). To score in this classification, the

number of units that possess fairly good character does not exceed the
20

number specified for the style in §52.2655.

(e) "C" classification. Halves, slices, and whole apricots that possess a

fairly good character may be given a score of 21 to 23 points. Canned

apricots of pieces or irregular pieces that possess a fairly food character

may be given a score of 28 to 31 points. Canned apricots that fall into this

classification shall not be graded above U. S. Grade C, regardless of the

total score for the product (this is a limiting rule). To score in this

classification, the number of units that possess poor character does not

exceed the number specified for the style in §52.2655.

(f) "SStd" classification. Canned apricots that fail to meet the character

requirements for Grade C may be given a score of 0 to 20 points for the

styles of halves, slices and whole, and 0 to 27 points for pieces or

irregular pieces, and shall not be graded above Substandard, regardless

of the total score for the product (this is a limiting rule).
21

§52.2655 Allowance for Quality Factors

TABLE IV

STYLES: HALVES AND WHOLE

Maximum Allowances Permitted Per

Sample Unit*

Factors A B C

COLOR

(Number of halves)

Reasonably well colored ........... 2 No Limit No Limit

Fairly well colored ................. 0 5 No Limit

Poorly colored ................... 0 0 5

UNIFORMITY OF SIZE

(Number of units)

Weight Variation

WHOLE - More than 50% .........

More than 75% .........

More than 100% ........

1

0

0

No limit

1

0

No limit

No limit

3

HALVES - More than 50% .........

More than 75 % .........

More than 100 % ........

3

0

0

No limit

3

0

No limit

No limit

5

HALVES - Off suture cuts ........... 2 7 15

and including including

Detached and partially detached pieces 2 7 15

DEFECTS

Harmless Extraneous Material 

(No. of pieces) ................... 0 1 (avg. 0.5) 2

Short Stems (count) ............... 2 3 5

Peel ........................... 3/8 sq. inch 3/4 sq. inch 1-1/4 sq. inch

Loose Pit (whole style only count) .... 3 5 5

Pit material (halves-count) .......... 3 (avg. 1) 3 (avg. 1) 3 (avg. 1)

Crushed or Broken Halves .......... 2 2 2

Whole .......................... 1 1 1

Blemished-Halves- Minor ...... 5 10 20

including including including

Major ................. 2 5 10

(Whole - Minor) ... 5 10 20

including including including

Major ................. 1 2 5
22

TABLE IV (CONTINUATION)

STYLES: HALVES AND WHOLE

Maximum Allowances Permitted Per Sample Unit*

Factors A B C

CHARACTER

(Halves)

Reasonably good

Fairly good .....

Poor ..........

2

0

0

No Limit

5

0

No Limit

No Limit

5

(Whole)

Reasonably good

Fairly good .....

Poor ..........

1

0

0

No Limit

2

0

No Limit

No Limit

2

* Additional sample average (average of all sample units) requirement denoted by

"(avg.--)"

TABLE V

STYLE: HALVES AND WHOLE

Maximum Allowances Permitted Per Sample Unit*

Factors A B C

COLOR

Reasonably well colored .

Fairly well colored .......

Poor colored ...........

2

0

0

No limit

5

0

No limit

No limit

5

DEFECTS

Harmless extraneous

material (No. of pieces) . . 0 1 (avg. 0.15) 1 (avg. 0.5)

Short Stems ........... 1 (avg.0.5) 1 2 (avg. 1.5)

Peel ................. 3/32 sq. inch 3/16 sq. inch 5/16 sq. inch

Pit material (count) ...... 1 (avg. 0.3) 1 (avg. 0.3) 1 (avg. 0.3)

Blemished - Minor . . 3 6 10

including including including

Major 1. 3 5

CHARACTER 

Reasonably good .......

Fairly good ............

Poor .................

2

0

0

No Limit

5

0

No Limit

No Limit

5

* Additional sample average (average of all sample units) requirements denoted

by "(avg.--)."
23

TABLE VI

STYLE: PIECES OR IRREGULAR PIECES

Maximum Allowances Permitted Per Sample

Unit*

Factors A B C

COLOR (ounces)

Reasonably well colored ......

Fairly well colored ............

Poorly colored ..............

2

0

0

No Limit

3

0

No Limit

No Limit

3

DEFECTS

Harmless extraneous material

(No. of pieces) .............. 0 1 (avg. 0.6) 2

Short Stems (count) .......... 4 4 6

Peel (peeled style only) ....... 1/2 sq. inch 1/2 sq. inch 1 sq. inch

Pit material (count) ........... 2 (avg. 0.7) 2 (avg. 0.7) 2 (avg. 0.7)

Blemished - Minor (oz.) ... 1.5 3 6

including including including

Major (oz.) 0.75 ... 1 3

CHARACTER (ounces)

Reasonably good ............

Fairly good .................

Poor ......................

1.5

0

0

No Limit

3

0

No Limit

No Limit

3

* Additional Sample average (average of all sample units) requirements denoted

by "(avg.--)."

§52.2656 Ascertaining the grade of a lot.

The grade of a lot of canned apricots covered by these standards is determined by the

procedures set forth in the Regulations Governing Inspection and Certification of

Processed Product Thereof, and Certain Other Processed Food Products

(7 CFR 52.1 to 52.83).
24

§52.2657 Score sheet for canned apricots.

Size and kind of container .............................................

Container mark or identification .........................................

Label ..............................................................

Net weight (ounces) ..................................................

Vacuum (inches) .....................................................

Drained weight (ounces); ( ) Heavy pack ..................................

Brix measurement ....................................................

Sirup designation (extra heavy, heavy, etc.) ...............................

Style ..............................................................

Count (halves, style) ..................................................

Factors * ** Score points

Color ................

Uniformity of size ......

Absence of defects .....

Character ............

Total score .....

20

20

30

30

100

20

40

40

100

"A" 18-20

"B" 16-17 _2/

"B" Pieces 16-20

"C" 14-15 _1/

"SStd" 0-13 _1/

"A" 18-20

"B" 16-17 _2/

"C" 14-15 _2/

"SStd" 0-13 _1/

"A" 27-30

"B" 24-26 _1/

"B" Pieces 32-40

"C" 21-23 _1/

"C" Pieces 28-31 _1/

"SStd" 0-20 _1/

"SStd" Pieces 0-27 _1/

"A" 27-30

"B" 24-26 _2/

"B" Pieces 32-40 _1/

"C" 21-23 _1/

"C" Pieces 28-31 _1/

"SStd" 0-20 _1/

"SStd" Pieces 0-27 _1/

Varietal characteristics: ( ) Similar ( ) Dissimilar .........................

Normal flavor and odor ................................................

U. S. Grade .........................................................

_1/ Indicated limiting rule.

* Halves, Slices, Whole.

** Pieces or irregular pieces.

_2/ Indicates partial limiting rule.
25

The U. S. Standards for Grades of Canned Apricots, as herein revised shall become

effective May 12, 1976, and will thereupon supersede the U. S. Standards for Grades

of Canned Apricots which have been in effect since April 1, 1974.

Dated: April 6, 1976

/s/ 

Donald E. Wilkinson

Administrator

Agricultural Marketing Service
UNITED STATES STANDARDS FOR GRADES

OF CANNED SOLID PACK APRICOTS

EFFECTIVE MAY 12, 1976

Sec. Page no.

§52.6241 Product description. ........................................ 2

§52.6242 Styles. .................................................. 2

§52.6243 Grades. ................................................. 2

§52.6244 Recommended fill of container. ............................... 2

§52.6245 Recommended minimum drained weight. ....................... 3

§52.6246 Sample unit size. .......................................... 4

§52.6247 Ascertaining the grade of a sample unit. ........................ 4

§52.6248 Ascertaining the rating for the factors which are scored. ........... 5

§52.6249 Color. ................................................... 5

§52.6250 Defects. ................................................. 6

§52.6251 Character. ............................................... 7

§52.6250 Defects. ................................................. 9

§52.6251 Character. ............................................... 10

§52.6253 Ascertaining the grade of a lot. ............................... 13

Authority: Agricultural Marketing Act of 1946, Secs. 203, 205, 60 Stat. 1087, as

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

Note: 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
2

§52.6241 Product description.

Canned solid-pack apricots is the product represented as defined in the Standard of

Identity for canned apricots (21 CFR 145.115) issued pursuant to the Federal Food,

Drug, and Cosmetic Act, and prepared in one of the styles specified in §52.2642; in one

of the liquid media specified in §52.2642; and is sealed in a container and so

processed by heat as to prevent spoilage.

§52.6242 Styles.

(a) Halves are apricots cut approximately in half along the suture from stem

to apex.

(b) Slices are apricots cut into thin sectors or strips.

(c) Pieces or irregular pieces are apricot unit that are predominantly

irregular in size and shape which do not conform to a single style or which

are a mixture of halves and slices.

§52.6243 Grades.

(a) U. S. Grade C or U. S. Standard is the quality of the product that:

(1) have a normal flavor and odor;

(2) have at least a fairly good color;

(3) have a fairly good character;

(4) is at least fairly free from defects; and

(5) score not less than 70 points when scored in accordance with the

scoring system outlined in this subpart.

(b) Substandard is the quality that fails to meet the requirements of U. S.

Grade C.

§52.6244 Recommended fill of container.

The recommended fill of container for canned solid - pack apricots is not incorporated

in the grades of the finished product since fill of container, as such is not a factor of

quality for the purposes of these grades. It is recommended that each container be as

full of apricots as practicable without impairment of quality and that the product occupy
3

not less than 90 percent of the volume of the container.

§52.6245 Recommended minimum drained weight.

(a) General. The minimum drained weight recommendations in Table I are

not incorporated in the grades of the finished product since drained

weight, as such, is not a factor of quality for the purpose of these grades.

(b) Definitions of symbols.

(1) X - the minimum average drained weight of all the sample units in -

d

the sample.

(2) LL - Lower limit for the drained weight of an individual sample unit.

(c) Method for ascertaining drained weight. The drained weight is

determined by emptying the contents of the container upon a U. S.

Standard No. 8 circular sieve of proper diameter containing 8 meshes to

the inch (0.0937 + 3 percent, square openings) so as to distribute the

product evenly, inclining the sieve to a 17 to 20 degree angle to facilitate

drainage, and allowing the product to drain for two minutes. The drained

weight is the weight of the sieve and apricots less the weight of the dry

sieve. A sieve 12 inches in diameter is used.

(d) Compliance with recommended minimum drained weights. A lot of

canned solid - pack apricots is considered as meeting the minimum

drained weight recommendations if the following criteria are met:

(1) The average of the drained weights from all the sample units in the

sample meets the recommended average drained weight

(designated as X ) in Table I; and -

d

(2) The number of sample units which fail to meet the recommended

minimum drained weight for individuals (designated as LL) in Table

I does not exceed the applicable number specified in Table II.

TABLE I-RECOMMENDED DRAINED WEIGHTS FOR CANNED SOLID-PACK

APRICOTS

Container

designation

Dimensions LL X

-

d

No.10 603 x 700 oz. 89.5 oz. 92.0
4

TABLE II - ACCEPTANCE NUMBER FOR RECOMMENDED DRAINED WEIGHT

Sample size (number of sample units) 3 6 13 21 29 38 48 60

Acceptance number 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

§52.6246 Sample unit size.

For purposes of evaluating quality factors, the sample unit size shall be the entire

contents of a No. 10 container or equivalent.

§52.6247 Ascertaining the grade of a sample unit.

In addition to considering other requirements outlined in the standards, the following

quality factors are evaluated:

(a) Factors not rated be score points.

(1) Flavor and odor.

(b) Factors rated by score points. The relative importance of each factor

which is scored is expressed numerically on the scale of 100. Score

points are assigned the various quality factors in accordance with the

scoring guide in Table III. The maximum number of points that may be

given each factor is:

Factor: Points

Color ........................................................ 20

Absence of defects ............................................. 40

Character .................................................... 40

Total score 100

(c) Definition of flavor and odor. Normal flavor and odor means that the

product is free from objectionable flavors and objectionable odors of any

kind.

§52.6248 Ascertaining the rating for the factors which are scored.

The essential variations within each factor which is scored are so described that the

value may be ascertained for such factors and expressed numerically. The numerical
5

range within each factor which is scored is inclusive (for example 14 to 20 points

means 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20 points).

§52.6249 Color.

(a) General. The color of canned solid - pack apricots refers to the

characteristic color of the outer, uncut surfaces of the units; and the

varying degrees of pale yellow areas, light greenish - yellow areas, and

light green areas; and the uniformity of the individual sample unit when

viewed in mass.

(b) Definitions.

(1) Well colored. Well colored means that the units have a bright

typical color characteristic of well - matured apricots. The units

may have pale yellow areas not exceeding one - fourth of the outer

surface area and are free from brown color due to oxidation,

improper processing, or other causes.

(2) Reasonably well colored. Reasonably well colored means that

the units have a color typical of reasonably well matured apricots. 

The units may have pale yellow areas not exceeding one - half of

the outer surface area or may have light greenish - yellow areas

not exceeding one - fourth of the outer surfaces area. The units

may possess a slight brown color due to oxidation, or other causes.

(3) Fairly well colored. Fairly well colored means that the units may

be pale yellow or may possess light greenish-yellow areas not

exceeding one-half of the outer surface area, or greenish areas not

exceeding one-fourth of the outer surface and/or may possess

more than a slight brown color due to oxidation, or other causes,

but not off-color.

(4) Poorly colored. Poorly colored means that the units may

possess light greenish - yellow areas exceeding one - half of the

outer surface area, or green ares exceeding one - fourth of the

outer surface area, or are off - color for any reason.

(c) "C" classification. Canned solid - pack apricots that possess a fairly

good color may be given a score of 14 to 20 points. Fairly good color

means that:

(1) the sample unit, in mass, may be variable in color; and
6

(2) the apricots are at least fairly well - colored, except that the weight

of the units that are poorly colored does not exceed the weight

specified in Table III.

(d) "SStd" classification. Canned solid - pack apricots that fail to meet the

requirements of U. S. Grade C may be given a score of 0 to 13 points and

shall not be graded above Substandard, regardless of the total score for

the product (this is a limiting rule).

§52.6250 Defects.

(a) General. The factor of defects refers to the degree of freedom from pit

material, harmless extraneous material, short stem, minor blemishes and

major blemishes, and from any other defects not specifically mentioned.

(b) Definitions and explanations of defects.

(1) Harmless extraneous material. Any vegetable substance (such

as, but not limited to, a leaf or portion thereof or a large stem) that

is harmless.

(2) Short stem. The short, thick, woody stem which attaches the

apricots to the twig of the tree or other stem material of equivalent

woodiness and shortness.

(3) Pit material. Any whole pit or any hard portion of an apricot pit,

regardless of size.

(4) Minor blemish.

(i) Light brown or brown surface areas, including freckles

which singly or in combination on a unit, exceed in

aggregate the area of a circle cinch in diameter but do not

exceed in the aggregate the area of a circle 1⁄4 inch in

diameter.

(ii) Any blemish or abnormality whether or not specifically

defined which materially but not seriously affects the

appearance or eating quality of the product.

(5) Major blemish.

(i) Light brown to brown surface areas which, singly or in the
7

aggregate on a unit, exceed the area of a circle 1⁄4 inch

diameter.

(ii) Blemishes that extend into the fruit tissue regardless of the

area or depth.

(iii) Single dark brown surface areas that exceed the area of a

circle c inch in diameter, whether or not the unit is affected

by minor blemishes; or

(iv) Any blemish whether or not specifically defined which

seriously affects the appearance and/or eating quality of the

unit but is not a filthy or decomposed substance.

(c) "C" classification. Canned solid - pack apricots that are at least fairly

free from defects may be given a score of 28 to 40 points. Fairly free

from defects means that the defects present do not exceed the

allowances specified in Table III.

(d) "SStd" classification. Canned solid - pack apricots that fail to meet the

defect requirements of U. S. Grade C may be given a score of 0 to 27

points and shall not be graded above Substandard, regardless of the total

score for the product (this is a limiting rule).

§52.6251 Character.

(a) General. The factor of character refers to the degree of ripeness, the

texture and condition of the flesh, the firmness, and tenderness of the

canned solid - pack apricots.

(b) Definitions.

(1) Good character. Good character means that the units have a

practically uniform, tender, fleshy texture typical of well - ripened,

properly prepared, and properly processed canned solid - pack

apricots; the units may be soft but hold their original confirmation

and size without material disintegration.

(2) Reasonably good character Reasonably good character

means that the units possess at least a reasonably uniform,

reasonably tender texture typical of properly ripened apricots that

are properly processed; the texture is at least reasonably thick but

the tenderness may be variable within the unit or among the units;
8

the units may be soft to slightly firm or ragged, but are not mushy.

(3) Fairly good character. Fairly good character means that the

units possess a texture of properly processed apricots which may

be variable in fleshiness but the texture is fairly fleshy and the

units may be lacking uniformity of tenderness or may be markedly

ragged with frayed edges or may be very soft or mushy, or may be

moderately firm.

(4) Poor character. Poor character means that the units are very

mushy or very firm.

(c) "C" classification. Canned solid - pack apricots that possess a fairly

good character may be given a score of 28 to 40 points. To score in this

classification, the weight of units that possess poor character does not

exceed the weight specified in Table III.

(d) "SStd" classification. Canned solid - pack apricots which fail to meet

the requirements of U. S. Grade C may be given a score of 0 to 27 points

and shall not be graded above Substandard, regardless of the total score

for the product (this is a limiting rule).
9

TABLE III

Quality Factors Maximum Allowances 

Grade C Substandard

Score Points 18 - 20 16 - 17 14 - 15 0 - 13

Color-oz. of apricots

that are

Well colored ALL NO LIMIT NO LIMIT NO LIMIT

Reasonably well

colored

5 ALL NO LIMIT NO LIMIT

Fairly well colored 2 9 ALL NO LIMIT

Poorly colored 0 2 14 ALL

Score Points 36 - 40 32 - 35 28 - 31 0 - 27

DEFECTS-(no. of

defects)

Harmless extraneous

material

0 1 3 more than 3

Short Stems 1 3 6 more than 6

Pit material 1 3 6 more than 6

Units affected by minor

and major blemishes

9 18 36 more than 36

Major blemishes 4 9 18 more than 18

Score Points 36 - 40 32 - 35 28 - 31 0 - 27

CHARACTER (oz. of

apricots units that

possess:

Good character ALL NO LIMIT NO LIMIT NO LIMIT

Reasonably good

character

5 ALL NO LIMIT NO LIMIT

Fairly good character 2 9 ALL NO LIMIT

Poor character 0 2 9 NO LIMIT
10

§52.6253 Ascertaining the grade of a lot.

The grade of a lot of canned solid - pack apricots covered by these standards is

determined by the procedures set forth in the Regulations Governing Inspection and

Certification of Processed Product Thereof, and Certain Other Processed Food

Products (7 CFR 52.1 to 52.83).

§52.6254 Score sheet for canned solid - pack apricots.

Size and kind of container .............................................

Container mark or identification .........................................

Label ..............................................................

Net weight (ounces) ..................................................

Vacuum (inches) .....................................................

Drained weight (ounces); ..............................................

Degree Brix (if sweetened) .............................................

Factors Score Points

Color 20

"C"

"SStd"

14 - 20

 0 - 13 1/

Defects 40

"C"

"SStd"

28 - 40

 0 - 27 1/

Character 40 

"C"

"SStd"

28 - 40

 0 - 27 1/

Total score 100

Normal flavor and odor ................................................

U. S. Grade .........................................................

1/ Indicates limiting rule.

The U. S. Standard for Grades of Canned Solid - Pack Apricots, as herein revised,

shall become effective May 12, 1976, and will thereupon supersede the U. S.

Standards for Grades of Canned Solid - Pack Apricots which have been in effect since

April 1, 1974.

Dated: April 6, 1976

/s/ 

Donald E. Wilkinson

Administrator

Agricultural Marketing Services