14

shaped, misshapen, and seriously misshapen, They are defined as

follows:

(40) Well shaped means the normal shape characteristic of the
variety.

(41) Fairly well shaped means that the root is not misshapen to
the extent that its appearance is materially affected.
This term is the lower limit passable for U.S. No. 1.
The definition of fairly well shaped under the Canadian
No. 1 grade means that the turnip or rutabaga is reason~
ably regular in contour and that the length of the trimmed
specimen is not more than one and one-half times the
diameter.
(42) Misshapen means that the beet, turnip or rutabaga is mis-
shapen to an extent that its appearance is materially
injured, but is not sufficiently misshapen to be classed
as "seriously misshapen." Misshapen roots are defects in
the U.S. No. 1 grade and in the case of turnips or rutaba—
gas, are defects of the Canada No. 1 grade.
(43) Seriously misshapen means that the root is forked or mis-
shapen to the extent that the appearance is seriously
affected. Beets, turnips or rutabagas described by the
use of this term are culls.

(44) Trimming: The U.S, and Canadian grades require beets, turnips or

rutabagas to be "well trimmed." The definitions in both U.S. and

Canadian Standards are approximately the same.

(45) The following terms should be used to describe trimming of topped
beets, turnips or rutabagas:

(46) Well trimmed (as applied to U.S. Standards) means that
unattractive secondary rootlets have been smoothly


Grade:

Beets or Turnips
leafstems).

Size:

Quality:

Condition:

Grade:

35

Meets quality requirements but fails to grade
U.S. No. 1 only account condition. Roots
average approximately 80%.U.S. No. 1 Quality.

with Short-Trimmed Tops (Fails account excessive

Roots generally 1-3/4 to 2-1/2 inches in diameter,
less than 1% under 1-3/4 inches. Leafstems from
3 to 6 inches in length with 5% to 20%, average
15% leafstems over 4 inches in length.

Roots well shaped; msotly well trimmed; fairly
smooth to smooth; fairly clean to clean. Grade
defects within tolerance.

Roots firm. Leafstems fresh; good characteristic
color. (In the case of turnip "light green to
good green color.") No decay.

Fails to grade U. S. No. 1 account excessive leaf-
stems over 4 inches in length.

POINTS TO REMEMBER
CANADIAN GRADE FOR RUTABAGAS AND TURNIPS

Canada has only

one grade, namely, Canada No. 1. AJ1 factors,

including size, are determined on-the-basis of count. Canada No. 1

permits 5% soft

affecting the ro

rot, while the U.S Standards permit 1% soft rot

ots.

(109)


31

tolerance." In the case of beet tops, the word "green" in the above

sample would be replaced by the words "good characteristic color."

If the petcentage of damaged tops exceeds the tolerance, the range (103)
and average percentage of damaged bunches must be reported. If a lot
is out of, grade account damaged 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.
Examples:

"Meets quality requirements but fails to grade U.S. No. (104)
1 only account condition, but roots average 85% U.S.

No. 1 Quality." |
"Turnips (or Beets): Meets quality requirements but
fails to grade U.S. No. 1 only account condition, roots
are of U.S. No. 1 Quality."

Size in Connection with the Grade: When no minimum size is speci- (105)

fied in connection with the grade, it is assumed the minimum size
is that stated in the grade. However, the applicant may specify a
different minimum size. If undersized beet, turnip or rutabaga
roots exceed the tolerance (5%), either a lower minimum size may be
specified in connection with the grade statement or the lot may be
reported as failing to grade account the excessive undersize

reported under the "Size" heading. The applicant should be consulted


Top or Stalk ee

:

wa

Crown

Contour not affected -
most of crown remains -
flesh not excessively

\ exposed,

’ WELL TRIMMED.

’
'
t

J Maximum allowed U.S. Grades
LZ

FIGURE 4


(23)

(24)

(25)

(26)

(27)

Topped White TURNIPS in tub type 1/2-bushel baskets
stamped "Joe's Topless, U.S. No. 1, 2 inch minimum,
Joseph J. Joseph, Stevens, WI." Manifested as 525
baskets.

CONDITION OF LOAD AND CONTAINERS

Refer to General Market Inspection Instructions.

PACK
When the product is in sacks, the "Pack" heading on the certificate

should be blocked out.

When the product is in cartons, crates or baskets, etc., the pack
may be described as "well filled," "fairly well filled," and "slack."
When the term "slack" is used, it must be followed by the degree of
slackness reported in inches or fractions of inches. If the pack is
faced or pack ice is used these should also be reported under this
heading. Refer to the General Market Inspection Instructions for
more detailed information.

REPORTING NET WEIGHTS

Refer to General Market Inspection Instructions.

SIZE

Under this heading report the following:

Range in diameter of roots.


UNCLASSIFIED

§51.2615 Unclassified. “Unclassi-
fied” consists of turnips or rutabagas
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.

TOLERANCES

$51.2616 Tolerances. In order to
allow for variations incident to proper
grading and handling, the following
tolerances shall be permited:

(a) For bupched turnips—(1) For de-
fects of roots. 10 percent, by count, for
roots in any lot which fail to meet the
requirements of the grade: Provided,
That not more than one-half of this
amount, or 5 percent, shall be allowed
for defects causing serious damage, in-
cluding therein not more than 1 percent
for soft rot;

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

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

(4) For of-lengtn tops. 5 percent, by
count, for bunches with tops in any lot
which fail to meet the requirements of
the style.

“(b) For turnips with short-trimmed
tops or topped turnips or rutabagas—
(1) For defects of roots. 10 percent, by
weight, for roots in any lot which fail
to meet the requirements of the grade:
Provided, That not more than one-half
of this amount, or 5 percent, shall be
allowed for defects causing serious dam-
age, including therein not more than 1
percent for soft rot;

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

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

(4) For off-length tops. 10 percent,
by weight, for turnips or rutabagas with
tops in any lot which fail to meet the
requirements of the style,

APPLICATION OF TOLERANCES

$51.2617 Application of tolerances.
(a) The contents of individual packages
in the lot, based on sample inspection,
are subject to the following limitations:
Provided, That the averages for the
entire lot are within the tolerances spec-
ifled for the grade:

(1) _For packages which contain more
than 5 pounds and a tolerance of 10 per-
cent or more is . provided, individua)
packages in any lot shall have not more
than one and one-half times the toler-
ance specified. For packages which con-
tain more than 5 pounds and a tolerance
of less than 10 percent is provided, indi-
vidual packages in any lot shall have
not more than double the tolerance spec-
ified except that at least one defective
and one off-size specimen shall be per-
mitted in any package; and,

(2). For packages which contain 5
pounds or less, individual packages in
any lot are not restricted as to the per-
centage of defects and off-size: Pro-
vided, That not more than one turnip
or rutabaga which is frozen or affected
by soft rot may be permitted in any
package.

STANDARD BUNCHING

$51.2618 Standard bunching. (a)
Standard bunches of turnips shall be
fairly uniform in size and each bunch
of turnips shall weigh not less than 1
pound and contain at least 3 turnips.

(b) Not more than 10 percent of the
bunches in any lot may fail to meet the
requirements for “Standard Bunchinge”,

DEFINITIONS

§ 51.2619 Similar varietal character-
istics. “Similar varietal characteris-
tics” means that the turnips or rutabagas
in any package shall be of similar color
and shape. For example, yellow fleshed
varieties shall not be mixed with white
fleshed varieties, and flat, globe, or long
varieties shall not be mixed in the same
package.

$ 51.2620 Welltrimmed. “Well trim-
med” means that unattractive secondary
rootlets have been removed, and that any
objectionably long or coarse tail-like part
of the root has been cut off.


in the container, or causes a loss of more
than 5 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 when not shallow
and not smooth or when the appearance
is materially affected; and,

(b) Discoloration when yellowing or
other discoloration of the tops materi-
ally affect the appearance of the bunch.
The appearance of bunches with tops
having slight discoloration such as yel-
Jowing, browning, or other abnormal
color affecting a few leaves shall not be
considered materially affected.

$51.390 Fresh. “Fresh” means that
the tops are not badly wilted.

$51.391 Diameter. “Diameter”
means the greatest dimension of the root
measured at right angles to a line run-
ning from the crown to the base of the
root.

$51.392 Excessively rough. “Exces-
sively rough” means that the root is
rough or ridged to the extent that the
eppearance is seriously affected.

§ 51.393 Seriously misshapen. “Se-
Tiously misshapen” means that the root
is misshapen to the extent that the ap-
pearance is seriously affected.

$51,394 Serious damage. “Serious
damage” means any defect which seri-
ously affects the appearance, or the
edible or shipping quality of the indi-
vidual beet, or the general appearance
of the beets in the container, or causes a
loss of more than 20 percent, by weight,
in the ordinary preparation for use.

The United States Standards for Beets
contained in this subpart shall become
effective 30 days after publication hereof
in the FepEaan Recister, and will there-

upon supersede the United States Stand-
ards for Bunched Beets which have been
in effect since November 4, 1950 (18 F. R.
7082), the United States Standards for
‘Topped Beets which have been in effect
since May 1, 1934, and the United States
Standards for Beets with Short-trimmed
Psych hhave been in effect since May
13, 1942.

Dated: June 27, 1955.

Cseau) Roy W. Lennartson,
Deputy Administrator,
Marketing Services.

Lf. R. Dos, 55-5255; Filed, June 29, 1958;
8:54 a.m.)


(61)

(62)

(63)

(64)

18

Dirt affecting tops. When the appearance of the tops is

materially affected by dirt, the bunch shall be scored

as damaged under the separate tolerance of 10% provided

for defective tops. Remember that in scoring damaged

tops for Bunched Beets or Turnips, the entire bunch is

scored on the count basis, while Beets and Turnips with

Short-Trimmed Tops are ‘scoréd on the basis of weight -
Permanent Defects: Root vegetables cannot be held to the same degree
of perfection that is required of fruits and some vegetables. It is
almost impossible to avoid all blemishes in handling, and further-
more, slight blemishes do not materially detract from the appearance

or value of the product as they do in the case of many other products.

Ordinarily only those defects which are sufficiently serious to
affect the grade should be reported on the certificate. If the
applicant specifically requests that such minor blemishes be reported,
the description of such blemishes should be followed by the statement
"not affecting grade," and further stated under the "Remarks" heading
that such blemishes, not affecting grade, are reported at the request

of the applicant.

In scoring defects of the roots, the individual root is the unit. In
scoring defects of the tops, the bunch is the unit in the bunched beet
and turnip style. Therefore, it is necessary to keep separate columns

for scoring defective roots and tops. There are separate tolerances


Revised January 20, 1978 BN-79 - 2(a)
36

(110) Whenever tolerances, including the 5 percent destination tolerance,
are exceeded the grade statement should read "Fails to grade Canada

No. 1."


Paragraph

Numbers

Freshness of Tops... 1 6 2s ee ee ee ee 83-85
Condition Defects Other Than Decay ......-.- 86-90
Discoloration of Tops... . . s+. + s+ see 86-87

Freezing . 6 6 ee ee eee ee ee 88-89

New Top Growth . 2... 1 ee eee ee ee 90

Decay 2. eee ee ee ee ee 91-96

Dry Rots . 6 ee ee ee ee ee ee 92

Soft Rots . 2. ee ee ee ee ee ee 93-95
Reporting Decay ..- - ee ee eee eee 96
Watersoaked or Bruised Leaves . . 1... se eee 97
GRADE «wee ee ee ee ee ee ee ee ee 98-106
Reporting Grade When Condition Defects are Involved 99
Reporting Percentage of U.S. No. 1 Quality. ... 100

Reporting Grade of Bunched Beets and Turnips when

tops are damaged. . . 1. 2 1 1 ee ee ee ee 101-103
Examples. 2. 1 6s ee ee ee ee ee ee 104
Size in Connection with Grade... 1. 2 ee eee 105
Reporting Defects of a Progressive Nature ..-. . 106
CANADIAN IMPORT REQUIREMENTS .. . - - ++ s+ + ee ee 107
REMARKS. «ee ee ee ee ee ee ee ee ee ee 108
GENERAL EXAMPLES . 2. ee ee ee ee ee ee ee ow + Pages 33-35
POINTS TO REMEMBER - CANADIAN GRADE. ...- ++ ee 109-110

GUIDE LINES FOR SCORING SHAPE OF TURNIPS OR RUTABAGAS. Fig. 1-2
" " " " cuTs " " " " Fig. 3-6

APPENDIX I....- U.S. Standards


Revised January 20, 1978 BN~79 - 2(a)
29

GRADE

Under this heading a definite statement pertaining to the grade of (98)
the lot should be made. If the load consists of different lots, it

will be necessary to report them separately. The grade statement is

an interpretation of the facts reported in the body of the certifi-

cate. Whenever a lot is reported as failing to meet the requirements

of the grade, the reason for its failure must be given. Thus: "Fails

to grade U.S. No. 1 account grade defects.”

Reporting Grade when Condition Defects are Involved: When applying the (99)

Canadian Standards to beets and rutabagas, it should be remembered
that an additional 5 percent tolerance is allowed at destination. DO

NOT SPECIFY THE REASON FOR FAILING IN THE GRADE STATEMENT when the

Canadian tolerances are exceeded. The only grade statement should read:

"Fails to grade Canada No. 1" regardless of the reason for failing.

Reporting Percentage of U.S. No. 1 Quality: If the percentage of (100)

U.S. No. 1 quality is to be reported, the total percentages of
defects, including decay, should be subtracted from 100 to determine

the percentage of U.S. No. 1 Quality. If the percentage of soft rot


15

removed, and that any objectionably long or coarse
tail-like parts are cut off, particuarly on lots of
large size turnips or rutabagas, whereas on small
size stock the small tail-like top root is not con-
sidered objectionable and often is not removed. Refer
to photographs on trimming for turnips or rutabagas.
(None available for beets).

Poorly trimmed means that the tops are trimmed below

the point of attachment removing a portion of the crown
and exposing a large portion of the flesh or affecting
the natural curvature of the root or materially affecting
the appearance. The Canadian grade does not allow trim-
ming on the upper half of rutabagas. The Canadian grade
requirement for beets is "not trimmed into the shoulder."

And/or means the secondary rootlets had not been
satisfactorily removed or the lower half of the root has

been too deeply trimmed or the general shape has been
altered by trimming.

Topped beets, turnips or rutabagas: In the case of topped beets, the

U.S. Standard for style permit a 10% tolerance for tops over 1/2 inch

in length and in the case of turnips, 3/4 inch in length. There is

no senarate tolerance for such tops in the Canadian Standards.

Beets and Turnips with Short-Trimmed Tops: This style has a separate

tolerance of 10% for leafstems over 4 inches, or any length specified.

There is also a tolerance of 10% for defects of the leafstems includ-

ing 5% for leafstems affected by decay.

Smoothness: Beets, Turnips or Rutabagas must be "fairly smooth" to

meet the requirements of U.S. No. 1 or Canada No. 1 grades, and be

(47)

(48)

(49)

(50)


21

Cuts: Mechanical damage or cuts which are large, rough, and ragged (72)
cuts which materially damage. the appearance or cause more than 5%

waste should be scored against U.S. No. 1 grade. When packing tur-

nips or rutabagas, growers and packers frequently trim the roots by

cutting away small decayed spots, worm damage or other surface blem-

ishes. Cuts which are not large, discolored, rough or deep should be

ignored.

The Canadian No. 1 grade provides that the stalk and root may be cut (73)
back and the lower half of the root smoothly trimmed to remove sur-

face blemishes. If the appearance is seriously affected or there

would be more than 20% waste, the specimen is scored as a defect of

U.S. No. 2.

Growth Cracks or Air Cracks: Slight cracks that do not materially (74)

affect the appearance, which are shallow or farily smooth, should be
passed. If a crack is deep, discolored, rough, or materially affects
the appearance, it should be scored against U.S. No. 1 grades. When
a crack seriously affects the appearance it shall be considered as
serious damage, and scored against the U.S. No. 2 grade. Growth
cracks are scored against the Canada No. 1 grade for rutabagas and

turnips when they affect 25% of the lower half of the turnip or cause
a waste of 5% by weight, including peel, covering the defective areas.


17

stained enough to affect grade, the appearance of the individual
root must be taken into consideration as well as the general appear-
ance of the roots in the container. The Canada No. 1 grade for ruta-

bagas and turnips specifies "free from damage by dirt."

The following terms should be used to describe Cleanness:

Clean means that the roots are practically free from dirt
or staining.

Fairly clean (lower limit for U.S. No. 1) means that the
individual root is reasonably free from dirt or other
foreign matter, and that the general appearance of the
roots in the container is not more than slightly affected.

Slightly dirty. This term is not defined in the Standards
but may be used to describe roots not considered "fairly
clean," but not so dirty that they are damaged by dirt.
Slightly dirty roots are not U.S. No. 1, but will meet
the lower limit requirement for Canada No. l.

Dirty. This term may be used to describe roots affected
by dirt to the extent that it materially affects the
appearance of the lot or individual roots. Such roots
would meet the minimum cleanness requirements for U.S.
No. 2 grade.

Serious damage by dirt. This term applies to roots whose
appearance is seriously affected by dirt or staining.
Individual roots with more than 1/2 of the surface caked
with dirt (lesser amounts when the dirt is thick or dark)
should be scored against the U.S. No. 2 grade. Roots
described by this term are culls.

(56)

(57)

(58)

(59)

(60)


(101)

(102)

exceeds the tolerance (1%) affecting roots, it should be shown
following the grade statement. Thus: “Approximately 85% U.S. No. 1
Quality, 4% soft rot." When a minimum or minimum and maximum size
is to be reported in connection with the percentage of U.S. No. 1
Quality, the percentage of off-size roots should be added to the

defects before subtracting from 100.

Reporting Grade of Bunched Beets and Turnips When Tops are Damaged:

In the bunched beet and bunched turnip packs, when a lot shows over
10% of the bunches, by count, damaged by discoloration, or individual
containers exceed one and one-half times the tolerance (15%), the
lot would fail to grade account of damaged tops. As the 10% of the
bunches permitted showing damaged tops is scored on the bunch basis,
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 the grade defect statement, thus as in

the case of turnips: "Tops generally fresh and green" or "Tops gen-

erally fresh and green, damage by yellow leaves average within


(35)

(36)

(37)

12

Beets, and Turnips or Rutabagas with Short-Trimmed Tops: The same

size specifications and tolerances apply to beets and turnips with
short-trimmed tops as to bunched beets’ and turnips, except for the
specification for length of tops. Beets or turnips with short-
trimmed tops mean, unless otherwise specified, beets or turnips
showing leafstems ranging to not more than 4 inches in length.

There is no minimum length requirement as to length of tops.

Count or Weight Basis: It must be remembered that in order to deter-
mine percentages you must refer to the grades for the basis of deter-
mination. All bunched beet and turnip percentages are figured on a
count basis while topped beets, and turnips and rutabagas, and those
with short-trimmed tops percentages are determined on the weight
basis. All percentages used in applying the Canadian Standards for

Rutabagas and Turnips are on the count basis.

Canadian Grades (dated 1972) specify that turnips or rutabagas may be
packed to any marked size range, or to size classifications in connec—
tion with the grade as Small (2 to 4") - Small Medium (3-1/2 to 5-1/2")
Medium (4 to 6") - Large (5" and up). Until August 31 of each crop
year a 3 to 5-1/2 inch range is permitted for Small-Medium. Canadian

rutabagas or turnips should be inspected on the basis of the Canadian


(9)

(10)

double the tolerance specified except that at least one defective and

one off-size specimen shall be permitted in any package.

For packages which contain 5 lbs. or less, individual packages in any
lot are not restricted as to the percentage of defects and off~size;
provided, that not more than one beet, turnip, or rutabaga which is

frozen or affected by soft rot may be permitted in any package.

NOTESHEET AND METHOD OF SAMPLING

There are separate tolerances in the Bunched Beet and Bunched Turnip
and Beets and Turnips with Short-Trimmed Top styles for defects affec-
ting roots and those affecting the tops. Therefore, it will be nec-
essary to keep separate columns for each. Also keep in mind that
there is a 5% tolerance for serious damage and this will have to be
taken into consideration on the notesheet. In scoring defects of the
root the individual beet or turnip is the unit, while the bunch is
the unit in scoring defective tops. Beets and Turnips with Short-
Trimmed Tops are not considered as a bunched commodity, therefore
defective tops are scored as individuals, It is suggested that
bunched beets and turnips be examined in multiples of ten, since a
10% tolerance is provided for defective tops including 5% decay.

Topped Beets, Rutabagas and Turnips are usually packed 25 to 50 lbs.


27

New Top Growth; Near the end of the storage season, topped roots may (90)
be found showing new top growth. Such growth in excess of 1/2 inch
in the case of beets and 3/4 inch in length in the case of turnips

shall be scored as a condition defect.

Decay: Two types of decays may be found in beets, rutabagas and (91)
turnips: dry rot and soft rot. Dry rot should be included with
other defects while soft rot carries a special tolerance in U.S. and
also in Canadian Standards. For a complete description of the vari-
ous decays, see Agriculture Handbooks No. 155 and No. 184.
Dry Rots such as Fusarium Rot or Black Rot should not be (92)
reported with soft rot. They should be scored on the
basis of appearance and waste under the general defini-
tions of damage and serious damage as the case may be
and scored against the tolerances for general defects.
Soft Rot is defined as a soft, mushy, or leaking condi- (93)
tion of the tissue and must be reported separately from
other defects. The grade provides that beets, turnips
or rutabagas must be "free from soft rot." If no soft
rot is found, the certificate should state "no soft rot."
All U.S. Standards covering the various sytles (topped, bunched, or (94)
short-trimmed tops) provide a tolerance of 1% for soft rot affecting
the roots, and when the tops are attached, an additional tolerance of

5% is provided for decay affecting the tops or leafstems. This 5%

tolerance applies to any kind of decay.


24

(80) Firmness of Roots; All grades, including Canada No. 1, require the
roots to be firm. Firmness should be described by use of the

following terms:

Firm means that the roots are not soft, flabby or
shriveled.

Fairly firm means that the roots are slightly wilted,
soft or flabby. (Fails to meet firmness requirements
of all grades.

Flabby and wilted means that the roots are badly
wilted, flabby, soft, limp or rubbery.

(81) The range and average percentage of roots which are not firm should
be reported. The location of roots in the package and in the car
should be reported as this has an important bearing on indicating
whether wilting occurred prior to loading, or during the transit
period due to lack of adequate refrigeration.

(82) Examples:

From 5 to 35%, average 15% flabby and wilted roots
scattered throughout the pack, remainder firm.

In most samples none, in some crates adjacent side~
walls 5 to 10% of roots next bottoms of crates are
flabby and wilted, remainder firm.
(83) Freshness of Topsi Both U.S. No. 1 and U.S. No. 2 grades require
the tops of bunched beets and turnips or those with short-trimmed
tops to be "fresh." The term "fresh" means that the tops are not badly

wilted and in the case of bunched turnips, the tops are also of

normal green cdlor.


NITED STATES DEPARTM=NT OF AGRICULTURE
AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE
FRUIT AND VEGETABLE DIVISION
FRESH PRODUCTS 3RANCL

MARKET INSPECTION INSTRUCTION
BEETS, TORBES. AND RUTABAGAS 1/
PRODUCTION AREAS

The production of turnips and rutabagas has increased substantially (1)
over the past few years. Practically all shipments are transported
by truck or trailer. Records indicate that more than 1,800 truck
lot shipments were made in 1976. The major producing States being
California, Oregon, Texas, Indiana and New Jersey. During the same

period over 1,000 truck lots of rutabagas were imported from Canada.

In 1976 over 670 truck lot shipments of beets were recorded. The (2)

principle production areas being California, New Jersey and Texas.

HANDLING AND PACKING METHODS

The handling and packing methods vary according to the producing (3)
areas. Rutabagas are mostly grown in the Northern States, stored in

warehouses and marketed through the winter months. Most rutabagas

L/ These instructions supersede "Market Inspection Handbook for
Beets, Turnips or Rutabagas" issued August 1957.





13

Standards unless the applicant specifically requests the inspection
on the basis of U.S. Standards. The inspector should study a copy of
the Canadian grade before inspecting on that basis. The Canadian
grade has an unusual tolerance for off-size specimens. It permits
10%, by count, of the specimens to be larger than the specified
maximum diameter, provided individual containers do not exceed 15%,
but of this none may be more than 1/2 inch larger. In addition, not
more than 10%, by count, may be smaller than the specified minimum

diameter, but none may be more than 1/2 inch smaller than such

diameter.
QUALITY
The following factors should be described under this heading: (38)
Shape
Trimming
Smoothness
Cleanness
Permanent Defects
Shape; In describing shape of beets, rutabagas and turnips, the (39)

type or variety should be considered in determining the proper term
or combination of terms to be used. Some varieties are naturally
long while others are oval, short, blocky and even flat in some cases.
When shape is in question on turnips and rutabagas, refer to the pho-

tographs. Descriptive terms used are: well shaped, fairly well


The styles are as follows:

Bunched Beets or Turnips: those tied in bunches, with
full length tops or tops removed to not less than 6
inches.

Beets or Turnips with Short-Trimmed Tops: Unless other-
wise specified leafstems do not range more than 4 inches
in length.

Topped Beets: tops removed to not more than 1/2 inch
in length.

Topped Turnips or Rutabagas: tops removed to not more
than 3/4 inch in length.

Canadian Standards only provide for topped turnips or rutabagas. The
basis of sale must be known before the inspection is started in order
to apply the proper grade. Canadian Standards for Turnips and Ruta-
bagas are on a COUNT basis. The U.S. Standards applying to Topped or
Short-Trimmed Tops on Beets, Turnips or Rutabagas are on a WEIGHT

basis. Bunched Beets and Bunched Turnips are on a COUNT basis.

APPLICATION OF TOLERANCES - U.S. STANDARDS

For packages which contain more than 5 lbs. and a tolerance of 10% or
more is provided, individual packages in any lot shall have not more
than 1-1/2 times the tolerance specified, provided the average for
the entire lot is within the tolerance specified. Also, for packages
which contain more than 5 lbs, and a tolerance of less than 10% is

provided, individual packages in any lot shall have not more than

(6)

7”)

(8)


19

for roots and tops. Bunched beets and turnips are scored on the basis
of count for defective roots and tops, while topped beets, turnips

or rutabagas and those with short-trimmed tops are scored on the
basis of weight. All factors are determined on the count basis in

the Canadian Standards.

Th U.S. Standards use the following terms to distinguish between
defects of U.S. No. 1 and U.S. No. 2 grades. The inspector must have
the proper interpretation and understanding of these terms before
proceeding with the inspection.
Free from means that regardless of the size or appearance
of the defect, the affected specimen is scorable against
the tolerance.
Free from damage briefly means any defect which materially
affects the appearance, edible or shipping quality, or
causes a loss of more than 5%, by weight, in the ordinary
preparation for use. The Standards pinpoint some factors
considered as damaged under the definition of terms.
Free from serious damage means any defect which seriously
affects the appearance or edible or shipping quality or
causes a loss of more than 20%, by weight, in the ordinary
preparation for use.
Brown Heart or Watercore (Rutabagas and Turnips): Brown Heart is rec-
ognized by irregular streaks and patches of discolored tissue and

watersoaked areas. When the disease is encountered it is necessary to

cut liberal samples to determine the percentage as there is no

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(68)

(69)


C)

United States
Department of
Agriculture

Agricultural
Marketing
Services

Fruit and
Vegetable
Division

Fresh Products
Branch

Washington, D.C.

Beets, Turnips
and Rutabagas

Market Inspection Instructions

October 1977

.
an

a ¥. ?

ys

Bay


42

Crown completely removed-- ("|
deep cut exposing flesh, 2;
. ’ z

FIGURE 6

DEFECTIVE ROOT (Score as deep cuts materially affecting crowns and exposing
an excessive amount of flesh).


(14)

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(16)

(17)

PRODUCTS INSPECTED AND DISTINGUISHING MARKS

Under this heading report the following factors:

Product, Variety and Style (Topped, Bunched
or Short-Trimmed)

Type of Container

Brands or Distinguishing Marks

Origin (State or Country)

Quantity Inspected

Product, Variety and Style: There are many varieties of beets, tur-

nips and rutabagas. Variety should not be certified unless the
inspector is positive of the variety. If the variety is manifested,
it may be reported if requested by the applicant. Market inspectors
should not attempt to certify varieties. Generally a thorough

description of the variety will be sufficient for all purposes.

Rutabagas and white turnips are the terms used by the trade in refer-
encing two types of turnips commonly found in terminal markets. The
rutabaga is stronger in flavor than white turnip and usually has
a yellow flesh. They may be further described as "bronze top" or
"purple top." It will be permissible to certify that rutabagas have

been "waxed" when a coating of paraffin is noticed.

‘The "Style" shall be shown under this heading.


per container, although small consumer packages of these commodities
are becoming popular. The entire container should be used as the

sample when beets, turnips or rutabagas are packed in small consumer

packages.

A careful record should be kept on the notesheet under appropriate
headings for each factor as follows:
Number of bunches and roots examined:

i.e. 20 , 20 , 20, 20 , 20 (bunches)
100 100 100 100 100 (roots)

Decay affecting roots ~~ kind of decay.

Decay affecting tops -- kind of decay.

Defective turnips or rutabagas -- type of defect.
Condition defects.

Size, range and mostly -- off-size.

Top length ~~ off-length.

Freshness, firmness and cleanness.

CONVEYANCE INITIAL AND NUMBER

Refer to General Market Instructions, Part II.
CONDITION OF CONVEYANCE

Refer to General Market Inspection Instructions, Part II.

(11)

(12)

(13)


38

SHAPE
FAIRLY WELL SHAPED

MAXIMUM ALLOWED
U.S. No. 1

FIGURE 2


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(89)

26

be considered as having damaged tops if not over 10% of the bunches

atte so damaged, or over 15% in an individual container.

Inspectors should check sidewall row crates loaded with bottoms
tight against sidewalls, particularly during the summer months. If
yellowing or discoloration is found, it should be described as

adcurately as possible, indicating the number of daches this condition

extends into the crate.

Freezing: All freezing damage or frozen stock that occurred after
packing should be treated as a condition factor in the markets and
reported under the "Condition" heading. Roots that are frozen or in
a thawing condition, which may or may not be damaged after thawing,
should be fully described as to location, etc., without trying to
anticipate whether there will be damage or serious change. The grade
statement should be based upon the condition at the time of inspec—
tion. Thus, "Now meets quality requirements but fails to grade U.S.

No. 1 only account condition."

For a complete description of the various methods of reporting tran-

sit freezing refer to the General Market Instructions, Part II.


United States Standards



25

Color of Tops; The color of tops refers to the color of the leaves (84)
and not the leafstems. In describing the color of the tops of tur-
nips, 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.

Turning yellow or yellow means that the leaves are
turning from light green to yellow.

In describing the normal color of the tops of bunched beets, the (85)
term "good characteristic color" should be used which means that the
leaves show a good shade of green and red color characteristic of

the variety.

Condition Defects Other than Decay:

Discoloration of Tops of Bunched Beets and Turnips; Discoloration (86)

of tops includes dark discoloration which may be caused by bruising,
a watersoaked condition, or freezing damage to the tops, as well as
brown or yellow discoloration. In scoring discoloration of the
tops, the bunch is the unit. Individual beets or turnips cannot be
scored. If the discoloration is sufficient 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 notesheet. Since there is sepa-

rate tolerance of 10% for damaged tops, the lot as a whole will not


(4)

(5)

are washed and waxed prior to shipment. The wax is applied by sub-
mersion in a warm paraffin solution, leaving a heavy coating of wax.
Local shipments are generally not waxed, but are washed and trimmed

to remove secondary rootlets, coarse tops, etc.

Topped beets and turnips may also be stored similarly to rutabagas.
Beets and turnips that are "bunched" or with "short-trimmed tops" are
marketed at! time of harvest. Washing is very common as it enhances

the saleability of white turnips or purple-top turnips.

GENERAL INSPECTION INSTRUCTIONS

The grade requirements for beets, turnips and rutabagas are so simi-
lar that we have combined them in these instructions. It is important
for inspectors to familiarize themselves with each of the U.S. Grade
Standards, grade interpretations and inspection policies prior to
making an inspection. Separate fees should be charged for commodi-
ties covered by separate Standards. The same policy of familiariza—
tion’ should be followed in making inspections of Canadian rutabagas

on the basis of Canadian Standards. It is also important to keep in
mind that under the present U.S. Standards there are two grades, U.S.

No. 1 and U.S. No. 2, and three different styles.



(51)

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16

not "excessively rough" in the U.S. No. 2 grade. The following
terms should be used to describe smoothness:

Smooth means that the root has a fairly even surface, not
rough or ridged.

Fairly smooth means that the root is not rough or ridged
to the extent that the appearance is materially affected.
Very slight roughness over the crown or very slight pitting
caused by shedding of dead leaves shall not be construed
as materially affecting the appearance of beets.

Rough means that the root is materially ridged or grooved,
but not to the extent that the appearance is seriously
affected. Beets, turnips or rutabagas falling into this
category would be passable for U.S. No. 2, but would be
defective for U.S. No. 1 and Canadian No. 1 grades.
Excessively rough means that the root is rough or ridged

to the extent that the appearance is seriously affected
Such roots would be defects of U.S. No. 2 and considered

culls.
Cleanness: The U.S. No. 1 grades specify that the beets, turnips or
rutabagas shall be fairly clean, This means that the individual root
is reasonably free from dirt or other foreign matter and the general
appearance of the roots in the container is not more than slightly
affected. The U.S. No. 2 grade requires that individual roots and
the general appearance of the roots in the container shall be free
from serious damage by dirt or other foreign matter. Dirt should be
considered from the standpoint of either soil adhering to the roots

or stain from soft rot. In determining whether the stock is dirty or


33 “Revised January 20, 1978 BN-79 - 2(a)

Size: Generally 2 to 4-1/4 inches, mostly 2-1/2
to 3-1/2 inches in diameter. Undersize
and oversize within tolerances.

Quality: Fairly well to well shaped; well trimmed,
mostly smooth, many fairly smooth; fairly
clean to clean. Grade defects average 4%
consisting of. insect damage and cuts.

Condition: Generally firms From 1 to 6%, average 4%
soft rot, consisting of Bacterial Soft Rot
and Gray Mold Rot in advanced stages. Less
than 1% dry type rot.

Grade: Canada No. 1, Small.

Canada No. 1 Large (showing transit freezing).

Size: Generally 5 to 7-1/2 inches in diameter.
Undersize within tolerance.

Quality: Fairly well to well shaped; generally
well trimmed, mostly smooth, some
fairly smooth and clean. Grade defects
average within tolerance.

Condition: Firm. In bottom layer sacks 1 to 2 layers
of rutabagas next to floor racks and many
rutabagas in 2nd layer sacks adjacent to
sides and end walls frozen, so located as
to indicate freezing occurred in car. No
decay.

GRADE: Fails to grade Canada No. 1.

(Fails U.S. No. 1) Topped Rutabagas.

Size: Generally 2-3/4 to 6-1/2 inches, mostly 3-1/2 to
: 6 inches in diameter. Average 5% under 2-3/4 inches.


Quality:

Condition:

Grade:

34

Mostly well shaped, some fairly well shaped;
generally well trimmed; fairly smooth to
smooth; mostly clean, some fairly clean.
Grade defects range from 5-to 40%, average
25% consisting of insect damage, cuts and
pithy.

Generally firm. Range from 2 to 6%, average
4%, Fusarium Dry Rot. 2 to 5%, average 3%
Bacterial Soft Rot occurring fairly uniformly
throughout load, mostly in advanced stages.

Fails to grade U.S. No. 1, 2-3/4 inches mini-
mum account excessive defects, now contains
approximately 65%, U.S. No. 1 quality 2-3/4
inches minimum. 3% soft rot.

Bunched Beets or Bunched Turnips (Now fails account soft and flabby
roots and damaged tops.)

Size:

Quality:

Condition:

Roots from 1-3/4 to 3 inches, mostly 2 to 2-1/2
inches in diameter. Average 2% under 1-3/4
inches. Full tops from 10 to 14 inches in
length.

Roots are generally well shaped, well trimmed,
smooth and clean. Grade defects from 2 to 10%,

averaging 5%, consisting of insect damage and
cuts.

Roots are mostly firm. In most samples none,
in many from 3 to 25%, averaging 15% soft and
flabby roots scattered throughout pack and
load. Tops are mostly fresh and showing good
characteristic color (good green color in the
case of turnips). From 5 to 40%, average 25%
of bunches damaged by some to many yellow or
brown discolored and/or watersoaked leaves.
No decay.


§51.2621 Firm, “Firm” means that
the root is not soft, flabby or shriveled.

$51.2622 Fairly smooth, “Fairly
smooth” means that the root is not rough
or ridged to the extent that the appear-
ance is materially affected.

§51.2623 Fairly well shaped. “Fairly
well shaped” means that the root is not
misshapen to the extent that the appear-
ance is materially affected.

$51.2624 Fairly clean, “Fairly
clean” means that the individual root Is
reasonably free from dirt or other foreign
matter, and that the general appearance
of the roots in the container is not more
than slightly affected.

$51.2625 Damage. “Damage” means
any defect which materially affects the
appearance, or the edible or shipping
quality of the individual turnip or ruta-
baga root or the general appearance of
the turnips or rutabagas !n the container,
or causes a loss of more than 5 percent,
by weight, in the ordinary preparation
for use, or which materially affects the
appearance or shipping quality of the
tops. Any one of the following defects,
or any combination of defects, the seri-
ousness of which exceeds the maximum
allowed for any one defect, shall be con-
sidered as damage:

(a) Cuts when discolored, rough or
deep, or when materially affecting the
appearance of the turnip or rutabaga;

(>) Growth cracks or air cracks when
discolored or deep, or when the appear-
ance is materially affected;

(ce) Pithiness when the edible quality
is materially affected by pith;

(d) Insects or rodents when the injury
to the root materially affects the appear-
ance of the turnip or rutabaga or causes
a loss of more than 5 percent, by weight,
or the edible quality of the root is ma-
terially affected; or when the tops are
injured to the extent that the appearance
of the bunch is materially affected; and

(e) Discoloration when yellowing or
other discoloration of the tops materially
affect the appearance of the bunch. The
appearance of bunches of tops having
slight discoloration such as yellowing,
browning, or other abnormal color affect-
ing a few leaves shall not be considered
materially affected.

$51.2626 Fresh. “Fresh” means that
the tops are of normal green color and
are not badly wilted,

$51.2627 Diameter. “Diameter”
means the greatest dimension of the root

¥U.S. Government Printing Office +

measured at right angles to a line run-
ning from the crown to the base of the

$51.2628 Excessively rough. “Exces-
sively rough” means that the root is
rough or ridged to the extent that the
appearance Is seriously affected.

$51.2629 Seriously misshapen.
“Seriously misshapen”. means that the
root is forked or misshapen to the extent
that the appearance is seriously affected.

$51.2630 Serious damage. “Serious
damage” means any defect which seri-
ously affects the appearance, or the
edible or shipping quality of the indi-
vidual turnip or rutabaga or the general
appearance of the turnips or rutabagas
in the container, or causes a loss of more
than 20 percent, by weight, in the ordi-
nary preparation for use.

The united States Standards for Tur-
nips or Rutagabas contained in this sub-
part shall become effective 30 days after
publication hereof in the Ferra Recis-
Ter, and will thereupon supersede the
United States Standards for Bunched
‘Turnips issued August 9, 1927, and re-
issued January 18, 1943, and United
States Standards for Topped Turnips or
Rutabagas, issued March 21, 1935, and
reissued September 27, 1949.

Dated: June 27, 1955.

tseaL] Roy W. Lennartson,
Deputy Administrator,
Marketing Services.

LF. R. Doc. 55-5256; Filed, June 29, 1955;
8:55 a. m.]

1987 - 180-917/60372


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22

Insects or Rodents: Insect or rodent injury to the root should be

scored against U.S. No. 1 when the injury materially affects the

appearance of the root, or causes a loss of more than 5% by weight,
or the edible quality of the root is materially affected. When the
appearance of the tops is materially affected by insect injury the
entire bunch is scorable as a defect against the 10% tolerance for

defects of tops.

Insect damage would be scored against Canada No. 1 grade for ruta-
bagas and turnips when it causes more than 5% waste, including peel
covering the defective area, or affects more than 1/4 of the surface
in the aggregate of the lower half of the root. Any amount is per-
mitted on the upper half provided it does not cause more than 5%

waste.

Pithiness is probably the result of unfavorable growing conditions

resulting in the texture of the roots being tough, woody and stringy.
Excessive freezing and thawing of the roots while in the ground or
storage may cause some increase in pithiness. The damage, however,
is primarily due to unfavorable growing conditions and when occurring

sufficiently to cause the root to be open textured, spongy, woody or


Paragraph

Numbers
Number of Bunches Per Crate. .......4.4.-. 33
Examples... 6 6 6 ee ew ee ee ee eee 34

Short-trimmed tops ... 2.2.6 ee ee ee eee 35
BASIS FOR PERCENTAGES . «1 6s ee we we eee ee 36-37
QUALITY 2... ee eee 38-78

Shape . 1. 6 6 6 we ee ee ee 39-43
Well Shape ee 40
Fairly Well Shaped... 1. 2-2 eee eee 41
Misshapen. . «2. 6 ee ee ee ee ee ee 42
Seriously Misshapen ...... eee eee 43

Trimming 2°. 6 eee ee ee ee 44-49

Smoothness . 6 1 eee ee ee ee 50-54
Smooth... 2. eee ee ee ee ee ee ee 51
Fairly Smooth ...... 2... eee eee 52
Rough 2... 1. ee ee ee ee ee 53
Excéssively Rough . ... 2-2-2 ee eee 54

Cleanness . 2. - 6 ee ee ee ee ee 55-61
Clean. we ee ee ee ee ee ee 56
Fairly Clen... 2... 2 ee ee ee ee 57
Slightly Dirty... ......-+58.6.- 58
Dirty 26 6 ee ee ee ee 59
Serious Damage by Dirt. .......... 60
Dirt Affecting Tops ... 2... eee eee 61

Permanent Defects... 2. +e. eee eee eee 62-78
General 2 6 ee ee ee ee ee 62-68
Brown Heart or Watercore .... «s+ + e-e 69-70

Internal Black Spot (Beets). ........ 71

Cuts ee eh ee ee 72-73

Air or Growth Cracks... 2. - ee ee ee 74

Insects or Rodents... . 1.2 eee eee 75-76
Pithiness 2... 1 eee ee ee ee 77
Secondary Rootlets .......-2-+2-004 78
CONDITION ©. 1 ee ee ee ee ee ee 79-97
Firmness of Roots... ee ee eee ee ee ee 80-81
Examples 2. 6 1. eee ee ee ee ee 82


’ POORLY TRIMMED

‘
/
7” (Deep cuts exposing excessive amounts of
flesh on lower half of root.)

U
FIGURE 5


39

ie

Y j

SF
f

\ Uy Unsightly root and rootlets removed -
‘ t smooth cuts do not
expose too much flesh.

AN
‘ / Contour not affected,
‘ t
\ ,/ WELL TRIMMED
) , Maximum allowed

FIGURE 3


Percentages of off-size
Length of Tops. (Bunched or Short-Trimmed)
Percentages of off-length
Standard Bunches .(when requested).
Count of roots per bunch or bunches per
container (when requested).
Size of Roots: In reporting size of roots state the range in diam- (28)
eter and unless the range is comparatively narrow a "mostly" range
should be shown. The occasional specimen that is outside the general

range should be ignored and covered by use of the term "generally"

preceding the range statement.

The U.S. No. 1 and U.S. No. 2 grades provide that unless "otherwise (29)
specified" the diameter of each beet shall be not less than 1-1/2

inches and the diameter of each rutabaga or turnip shall be not less

than 1~3/4 inches. The tolerances specify that not more than 5%, by.

weight, when "topped" or with "short-trimmed tops" and by count when
"bunched" may be below the specified minimum diameter and not more

than 10% may not meet any maximum diameter which may be specified in
connection with the grade. In case a minimum size other than that

provided for in the grade is specified, the same 5% tolerance shall

apply.


11

Number of Bunches Per Crate.Upon Request: It is permissible to cer-

tify the number of bunches or the "dozen bunches per crate" when

specifically requested by the applicant. If the applicant is inter-
ested only in the number. of bunches per crate, it will be necessary
to make reference to this fact under "Remarks." The entire contents
of several crates should be examined to determine the count of
bunches. Actual count should be reported or if count is found to be
as marked on the containers, it may be reported as "conforms to dozen
count as marked" or other facts in reference to count of bunches.

Examples of Size Statements:

(U.S. No. 1 Standard Bunches) Generally 1~3/4 to 2 inches in
diameter. Undersize within tolerance. From 3 to 7, mostly
3 to 5 beets (or turnips) per bunch. Roots fairly uniform
in bunches. Bunches generally weigh from 1 to 2 pounds,
Tops 6 to 12 inches in length.

(U.S. No. 1) Generally 1-3/4 to 2-1/2 inches, mostly 2 to
2-1/4 inches in diameter, Undersize within tolerance.
Tops 6 to 12 inches in length.

(Count) Generally 1-3/4 to 2-1/2 inches in diameter, 3%
undersize. Tops 6 to 13 inches, 3 to 9, mostly 3 to 5
beets (or turnips) per bunch. Range from 30 to 38,
average 35 bunches per crate.

(U.S. No. 1) Generally 1-1/2 to 3-1/4 inches in diameter,
full tops 12 to 16 inches in length; undersize within
tolerance.

NOTE: Under the "Remarks" heading: "Count per
bunch and bunch count reported at specific
request of the applicant."

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

PRODUCTION AREAS . 2 4 + eee ee ee eee
HANDLING AND PACKING . . 2 2 ee ee ee ee
GENERAL INSPECTION INSTRUCTIONS .....-.
APPLICATION OF TOLERANCES — U.S. STANDARDS .
NOTESHEET AND METHOD OF SAMPLING ......
CONVEYANCE INITIAL AND NUMBER .....+.--
CONDITION OF CONVEYANCE . 2... - see ee

PRODUCTS INSPECTED AND DISTINGUISHING MARKS

Product, Variety and Style ......
Containers ...-.. see see
Brands or Distinguishing Marks. cae
Origin (State or Country) . we ee
Quantity Inspected .-. . 2... eee
Examples . 2... ee ee ee eee
CONDITION OF LOAD AND CONTAINERS ......
PACK 6. ee ee ee ee ee ee
Reporting Net Weights... ....4--s
SIZE. 6 ee ee ee ee ee ee ee
Size of Roots... ee eee we ee
Length of Tops ..-. e+ + se eee
Standard Bunches . . see ewe

Requirements of Standard Bunches .. .

Paragraph
Numbers
1-2
3-4
5-7
8-9
10-11

12


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32

as to the size specified in his sales contract and this size shall
be used for the basis of size description. Remember when sizes
other than those specified in the grade are reported, they must be
stated in connection with the grade, thus: "U.S. No. 1, 2-1/4
inches minimum.". When requested, Standard Bunches may be reported
in connection with grade statement, thus, "U.S. No. 1 Standard

Bunched."

REPORTING SERIOUS DEFECTS OF A PROGRESSIVE NATURE

Refer to General Market Inspection Instructions.

CANADIAN IMPORT REQUIREMENTS

Topped beets, rutabagas or turnips or those with short-trimmed tops
shipped to Canada must be certified as meeting the requirements of
one of the U.S. Grades. Other specified sizes than those provided
in the grades will be acceptable to the Canadian authorities. No
certification is required for bunched beets or turnips for importing
into Canada.

REMARKS.

Refer to General Market Inspection Instructions, Part II.

GENERAL EXAMPLES

Canada No. 1 Topped Rutabagas.


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20

external evidence. If it causes more than 5% waste, it should be
scored as a defect of U.S. No. 1 and Canada No. 1. If more than 20%

waste is involved it is scored as a defect of U.S. No. 2.

It is advisable to cut several roots at random while scoring samples
and if it is definitely established that internal damage or serious
damage is present, enough specimens should be cut to determine the
percentage. The container tolerance applies and therefore individual
containers of more than 5 lbs. may not have more than 1-1/2 times the
10% tolerance. If such containers have less than 10% defects, double

the tolerance is allowed.

Internal Black Spot (Beets): Internal Black Spot is characterized by

black, irregular patches of broken down tissue, usually in the central
part of the root. The discolored areas are moist and of about the
same texture as the normal tissue, They do not dry, form cavities,

or cause unusual shrinkage of the root. Beets may be severely
affected without showing external symptoms of this disease, However,
occasionally some tissues are affected near the surface of the root
and cracks occur. These permit secondary rot-producing fungi to

invade these areas.

This should be handled as described in cutting for Brown Heart.




UNITED STATES STANDARDS FOR GRADES OF
BEETS *
Source: 20 FR 4617, June 30, 1955, unless

otherwise noted. Redesignated at 42 FR
32514, June 27, 1977 and at 46 FR 63203.

Dec. 31, 1981.

Effective August 1, 1955

‘STYLES
Sec.
51.375 Bunched beets.
61.376 Beets with short-trimmed tops.
51.377 Topped beets.
GRADES

61.378 U.S. No. 1.
61.379 U. 8. No.2.

‘UNCLASSIFIED
51.380 Unclassified.

‘TOLERANCES
51.381 Tolerances.

APPLICATION OF TOLERANCES
51.382 Application of tolerances.
STANDARD BUNCHING

51.383 Btandard bunching.

DEFINITIONS
51.384 Well trimmed.
61.385 Firm.
51.396 Fairly smooth.
61.387 Fairly well shaped.
51.388 Patrly clean,
61.389 Damage.
61.290 Fresh.
51.391 Diameter.
61.392 Excessively rough.

61.393 Serlously misshapen.
51.394 Serious damage.

AvrHorrrY: §§ 51.375 to 51.394 issued under
sec. 205, 60 Stat. 1090, 7 U. 5. C. 1624.

STYLES

$51.375 Bunched beets. “Bunched
beets” means beets which are tled in
bunches. The tops shall be full length or
removed to not less than § inches.

§51.376 Beets with short-trimmed
tops. “Beets with short-trimmed tops”
means, unless otherwise specified, beets
showing leafstems ranging to not more
than 4 inches in length.

§51377 Topped beets. “Topped
beets” means beets with tops removed to
not more than one-half inch in length.

1Packing of the product In conformity
with the requirements of these standards
shall not excuse fatlure to comply with the
provisions of the Federal Food, Drug, and
Cosmetic Act.

GRADES

$51,378 U. S.No. 1. “U.S. No. 1”
consists of beets of similar varietal char-
acteristics the roots of which are well
trimmed, firm, fairly smooth, fairly well
shaped, fairly clean and free from soft
rot and free from damage caused by cuts,
freezing, growth cracks, disease, rodents
or insects, or mechanical or other means.
Bunched beets or beets with short-
trimmed tops shall have tops which are
fresh and free from decay and free from
damage caused by discoloration, freez-
ing, disease, insects, or mechanical or
other means.

(a) Unless otherwise specified, the
diameter of each beet shall be not less
than 1!2 inches. (See § 51.381.)

$51.379 U.S. No. 2. “U.S. No. 2”
consists of beets of similar varietal char-
acteristics the roots of which are well
trimmed, firm, not excessively rough, not
seriously misshapen and which are free
from soft rot and free from scrious dam-
age caused by cuts, dirt, freczing, growth
cracks, disease, rodents or insects, or
mechanical or other means. Bunched
beets or beets with short-trimmed tops
shall have tops which are fresh and free
from decay and free from damage caused
by discoloration, freezing, disease, in-
sects, or mechanical or other means.

(a) Unless otherwise specified, the
diameter of each beet shall be not less
than 14% inches. (See § 51.381.)

UNCLASSIFIED

§ 51.380 Unclassified. “Unclassified”
consists of beets which have not been
classified in accordance with either of
the foregoing grades. The term “un-
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.

TOLERANCES

§51.381 Tolerances. In order to al-
low for variations incident to proper
grading and handling, the following tol-
erances shall be permitted:


(95)

(96)

(97)

28

It must be remembered that when scoring on the basis of Canada No. 1
grade for Rutabagas and Turnips, that this grade provides a tolerance

of 5% for soft rot and percentages are determined by count.

In scoring and reporting decay, the inspector should report the name,

amount and degree of the decay. If the inspector cannot name the
decay, it will be satisfactory to describe it. The most important
diseases affecting the roots are: Fusarium Rot, Gray Mold Rot,
Bacterial Soft Rot and Alternaria Root Rot. A clear description of
the degree of soft rot found is important in order that interested

parties may properly evaluate the lot.

Watersoaked or Bruised Leaves: A word of caution to the inspector.

Do not confuse watersoaked or bruised leaves with decay. Leaves
affected with Bacterial Soft Rot become slippery and disintegrate
when rubbed between the fingers; while bruised and watersoaked leaves
have a similar appearance, they will not disintegrate when rubbed.
The U.S. Standards provide a separate tolerance of 5% for decay
affecting the tops. Bruised and watersoaked leaves are scorable as
condition defects at terminal markets against the general tolerance

of 10% for defective tops.


37

L'On’s'n
GaMOTIV WOWIXVA

(eBeqeany sutes—smeln omy eAoge)
GadVHS 114M ATHIVd

I dans


23

stringy, it should be scored as a defect. The U.S. Standards for

Turnips or Rutabagas require that U.S. No. 1 be free from damage by
pith which means that the edible quality is not materially affected
by pith. Pith is not specifically mentioned in the Beet Standards,
but the same definition mentioned above for turnips could apply to

beets.

Secondary Rootlets: It is impossible to fix a minimum number of root- (78)
lets that a turnip ‘or rutabaga may have before it would be considered
damaged, because of the variation of size of roots, size and length
of rootlets, as all would have a bearing on the effect they would
have on the general appearance. One or two fairly long rootlets on
an occasional specimen should be ignored. Two or three excessively
long rootlets on a large percentage of stock would materially affect
the appearance and should be scored. Inspectors should not become
technical in scoring rootlets in lots which have a satisfactory
appearance.
CONDITION
Under this heading the following factors should be reported: (79)
Firmness of roots
Freshness of tops
Color of tops

Condition defects other than decay
Decay


Containers: Beets and turnips that are "bunched" or with "short-
trimmed tops" are usually shipped in cartons or crates of various
types. Topped beets, turnips or rutabagas are normally shipped in
burlap, cottonnet, papernet sacks, film bags and bushel baskets. A

complete description of the container should be made.

Brands or Distinguishing Marks: Trade-marks, brands, sizes and name

and address of shipper as found on the container should be reported,

Origin: The place of origin as marked on the container or manifes-

ted should be reported.

Quantity Inspected: The number of containers in the lot being
inspected should be reported on the certificate, either as a state-
ment on authority of the inspector, or as "applicant states,"

"manifested as," etc.

Examples:

Topped BEETS in open mesh sacks stenciled "50 lbs. net."
Manifested as 50 sacks of Ohio grown beets.

Bunched BEETS in waxed fiberboard cartons printed "2 doz.,
Triumph Brand, Vegetables; A. B. Charles, Somers, Ariz."
Inspector's count 28 cartons.

Waxed RUTABAGAS in burlap sacks printed "P.E.I. Brand,
Waxed Rutabagas, Large, 4~1/2-6", Paul Edgar Inman,
Summerside, P.E.I.,Canada." Applicant states 800 sacks.

(18)

(19)

(20)

(21)

(22)


(a) For bunched beets—(1) For de-
fects of roots. 10 percent, by count, for
roots in any lot which fail to meet the
requirements of the grade: Provided,
That not more than one-half of this
amount, or 5 percent, shall be allowed
for defects causing serlous damage, in-
cluding therein not more than 1 percent
for soft rot;

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

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

(4) For of-length tops. 5 percent, by
count, for bunches with tops in any lot
which fail to meet the requirements of
the style.

(b) For bects with short-trimmed tops
or topped beets—(1) For defects of roots.
10 percent, by weight, for roots 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 causing
serious damage, including therein not
more than 1 percent for soft rot;

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

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

(4) For off-length tops. 10 percent,
by weinht, for beets with tops in any lot
which fail to meet the requirements of
the style specified.

APPLICATION OF TOLERANCES

§$51.382 Application of tolerances.
(a) The contents of individual packages
in the lot, based on sample inspection,
are subject to the following Ilmitations:
Provided, That the averages for the en-
tire lot are within the tolerances speci-
fied for the grade:

(>) For packages which contain more
than 5 pounds and a tolerance of 10 per-
cent or more is provided, individual
packages in any lot shail have not more

than one and one-half times the toler-
ance specified. For packages which con-
tain more than 5 pounds and a tolerance
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 defec-
tive and one off-size specimen shall be
permitted in any package; and,

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

STANDARD BUNCHING

$51.383 Standard bunching. (a)
Standard bunches of beets shall be fairly
uniform in size and each bunch of beets
shall weigh not less than 1 pound and
contain at least 3 beets.

(b) Not more than 10 percent of the
bunches in any lot may fail to meet the
requirements for “Standard Bunching”.

DEFINITIONS

§51.384 Well trimmed. “Well
trimmed” means that unattractive sec-
ondary rootlets have been removed and
that any objectionably long or coarse
tail-like part of the root has been cut off.

$51.385 Firm, “Firm” means that
the beet root is not soft, flabby or
shriveled.

§ 51.386 Fairly smooth. “Fairly
smooth” meyns that the root is not
rough or ridged to the extent that the
appearance is mA&terially affected. Very
slight roughness over the crown or very
slight pitting caused by the shedding of
dead leaves shall not be considered as
materially affecting the appearance.

$51,387 Fairly well shaped, “Fairly
well shaped” means that the root is not
misshapen to the extent that the appear-
ance is materiaily alfected.

§52.388 Fairly clean. “Fairly clean”
means thatsthe individual root is rea-
sonably free from dirt, stain or other
foreizn -matter, and that the generat
appearance of the roots in the container
is nut more than slightly affected.

§ 51.389 Damage. “Damage” means
any defect which materially affects the
appearance, or the edible or shipping
quality of the individual beet root, or
the general appearance of the beet roots


2

UNITED STATES STANDARDS FOR GRADES OF

TURNIPS OR RUTABAGAS *

Source: 20 FR 4619, June 30, 1955, unless
otherwise noted. Redesignated at 42 FR
32514, June 27, 1977 and at 46 FR 63203,

Dec. 31, 1981.

Effective August 1, 1955

STYLES
See.
51.2610
51 2611
51.2612

Bunched turnips.
Turn!ps with short-trimmed tops.
Topped turnips or rutabagas.

GRADES

U. 8. No. 1.
U. 8. No. 2.

‘UNCLASSIFIED
‘Unclassified.
TOLERANCES
‘Tolerances,

51.2613
51.2614

51.2615

51.2616
APPLICATION OF TOLERANCES

61.2617 Application of tolerances.

STANDARD SUNCHING
Standard bunching.
DEFINITIONS

Similar varietal characteristics.
$1.2620 Well trimmed.

51.2621 Firm.

51,2622 , Fairly smooth.

51.2623 Fairly well shaped.

51.2624 Fairly clean.

Damage.

61.2618

§1.2619

sively rough.
2629 Seriously misshape!
512630 Serious damage.

AvuTHontrr: §§ 51.2610 to 61.2630 Issued
under sec. 205, 60 Stat. 1090, 7 U.S. C. 1624.
STYLES

$51.2610 Bunched turnips. “Bunched
turnips” means turnips which are tied in
bunches. The tops shall be full length
or removed to not less than 6 inches.

§51.2611 Turnips with short-trimmed
tops. “Turnips with short-trimmed
tops” means, unless otherwise specified,
turnips showing leafstems ranging to not
more than 4 inches in length.

2ComplHance 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,

$51.2612 Topped turnips or ruta-
bagas. “Topped turnips or rutabagas”
means turnips or rutabagas with tops
removed to not more than three-fourths
inch in length.

GRADES

§ 51.2613 U. S.No. 1. “U.S. No. 1”
consists of turnips or rutabagas of simi-
lar varietal characteristics the roots of
which are well trimmed, firm, fairly
smooth, fairly well shaped, fairly clean,
and free from soft rot and free from
damage caused by cuts, discoloration,
freezing, growth cracks, pithiness,
woodiness, watercore, dry rot, other dis-
ease, insects or rodents, or mechanical
or other means. Bunched turnips, or
turnips with short-trimmed tops shall
have tops which are fresh and free from
decay and free from damage caused by
discoloration, freezing, disease, insects,
or mechanical or other means.

(a) Unless otherwise specified, the
diameter of each turnip or rutabaga

shall be not less than 1% inches. (See
§ 51.2616.)
§51.2614 U.S. No. 2. “U.S. No. 2”

consists of turnips or rutabagas of simi-
lar varictal characteristics the roots of
which are well trimmed, firm, not exces-
sively rough, not seriously misshapen
and which are free from soft rot and free
from serious damage caused by cuts,
dirt, discoloration, freezing, growth
cracks, pithiness, woodiness, watercore,
dry rot, disease, insects or rodents, or
mechanical or other means. Bunched
turnips or turnips with short-trimmed
tops shall have tops which are fresh and
free from decay and free from damage,
caused by discoloration, freezing, dis-
ease, insects, or mechanical or other
means.

(a) Unless otherwise specified, the di-
ameter of each turnip or rutabaga. shall
be not less than 1% inches, (See § 51.-
2616).)


(30)

(31)

(32)

10

Length of Tops: (Bunched Beets and Turnips) The U.S. No. 1 and
U.S. No. 2 grades for bunched beets and turnips specify ",..the tops
shall be full length or removed to not less than 6 inches." Not
more than 5%, by count, may be off length. Most bunched turnips
have full tops so this fact need not be mentioned. If the tops

have been clipped or are not full, this fact should be reported as

"Tops clipped to 12 inches."

Standard Bunches: Inspectors should not certify Standard Bunches
unless specifically requested to do so by the applicant. In that
event, the factors applying to Standard Bunch requirements should be
reported under the "Size" heading on the certificate, put the actual
certification should be made under the "Grade" heading. The per-

centage of bunches complying or failing to comply shall be reported

under the "Size" heading.

Requirements for Standard Bunches: If bunches do not meet the mini-

mum weight requirement (1 pound per bunch), or have less than the
required number of roots (3 per bunch), they must be reported in
percentages as the requirements for Standard Bunches provide a

tolerance of 10% The bunches must also be fairly uniform in size.