Agricultural Marketing Service, Specialty Crops Program, Specialty Crops Inspection Division 

PATCH # 101 

DOCUMENT: Fresh Electronic Inspection Reporting/Resource System (FEIRS) electronic 

programs revision. 

REMARKS: The following instruction will be followed for entering an application for appeal 

remark statement on FV-E300 (FEIRS) certificates. 

All FV-E300 (FEIRS) certificates shall have the following statement regarding application for 

appeal inspection added under REMARKS prior to issuance: 

• “An application for appeal inspection may be made by any financially interested person 

regarding the results or accuracy of this inspection or certificate. Contact the market 

office listed on the certificate or email SCIinspectionoperations@usda.gov for details.” 

The inspector will add the remark by selecting it from the Remarks dropdown under the 

Summary tab. 

This PATCH represents official guidance. This PATCH is scheduled to be incorporated into the 

document listed above. After incorporation into the document listed above this PATCH will 

become obsolete. USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender. 

PATCH # 101 FEIRS Appeal Application Remark (March 18, 2024) 

SCI Division Inspection Series 

Page 1 of 1 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Agricultural Marketing Service, Specialty Crops Program, Specialty Crops Inspection Division 

PATCH # 100 

DOCUMENT: Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual, March 2015 

REMARKS: The following information relating to an application for appeal remark statement 

will be incorporated into the next revision of the March 2015 manual. 

As a reminder the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Inspection Certificate FV-300 was revised in 2017 

to change the FV form identifier to a SC form identifier with no change to format. Current 

supplies of the FV-300 may be used until exhausted. While only the FV-300 is mentioned 

throughout this manual, instruction and guidance within applies to the completion of the SC-300 

as well. 

GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS (page 1) 

All FV-300 and SC-300 certificates shall have the following statement regarding application for 

appeal inspection added under REMARKS prior to issuance: 

• “An application for appeal inspection may be made by any financially interested person 

regarding the results or accuracy of this inspection or certificate. Contact the market 

office listed on the certificate or email SCIinspectionoperations@usda.gov for details.” 

The remark will be handwritten or printed by the inspector. 

Remarks (page 49) 

In many cases, it will not be necessary to make any statement under “REMARKS,” and if all 

points have been sufficiently covered under the various other headings of the certificate, leave 

this heading blank. If more space is needed for “REMARKS,” use any unused space in the 

“OFFSIZE/DEFECTS” and “OTHER” sections. 

Under this heading make any explanatory or qualifying statement(s) that are necessary to 

complete the certificate. Instructions and principal kinds of statements made under this heading 

may be found in the General Market Manual. 

This PATCH represents official guidance. This PATCH is scheduled to be incorporated into the 

document listed above. After incorporation into the document listed above this PATCH will 

become obsolete. USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender. 

PATCH # 100 Appeal Application Remark (March 18, 2024) 

SCI Division Inspection Series 

Page 1 of 1 
 

 

 

 

All FV-300 and SC-300 certificates shall have the following statement regarding application for 

appeal inspection added under REMARKS prior to issuance: 

• “An application for appeal inspection may be made by any financially interested person 

regarding the results or accuracy of this inspection or certificate. Contact the market 

office listed on the certificate or email SCIinspectionoperations@usda.gov for details.” 

The remark will be handwritten or printed by the inspector. 

This PATCH represents official guidance. This PATCH is scheduled to be incorporated into the 

document listed on the first page. After incorporation into the document listed above this 

PATCH will become obsolete. 

PATCH #100 Appeal Application Remark (March 18, 2024) 

SCI Division Inspection Series 

Page 2 of 2 
U Marketing and 

Regulatory 

Programs 

Agricultural 

Marketing 

Service 

Fruit and 

Vegetable 

Program 

Specialty 

Crops 

Inspection 

Division 

AIM 

Inspection 

Series 

Fresh Fruit and Vegetable 

Inspection Certificate 

(FV-300) Manual 

March 2015 
“SCI moving forward in the 21 st Century using technology, innovation, and old fashioned hard work” 
 

 

Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Table of Contents 

INTRODUCTION .......................................................................................................................... 1 

GUIDE FOR ELECTRONIC USAGE ........................................................................................... 1 

GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS........................................................................................................ 1 

Data Stubs ....................................................................................................................................... 2 

Superseding Certificates ................................................................................................................. 3 

A. Certificates with Errors................................................................................................. 3 

B. Certificates with Duplicate Numbers............................................................................ 4 

C. For All Superseded Certificates.................................................................................... 4 

Appeal Certificates.......................................................................................................................... 5 

A. When an appeal is honored........................................................................................... 5 

B. When an appeal is not honored..................................................................................... 6 

C. Fees ............................................................................................................................... 6 

IDENTIFYING THE INSPECTION.............................................................................................. 8 

Inspection Started............................................................................................................................ 8 

Applicant/Address........................................................................................................................... 8 

Shipper/Address.............................................................................................................................. 8 

Inspection Site................................................................................................................................. 9 

Carrier or Lot Identification.......................................................................................................... 10 

Loading ......................................................................................................................................... 13 

Carrier / Lot ID Stated By............................................................................................................. 15 

Additional Lot ID.......................................................................................................................... 17 

Carrier Type / Name ..................................................................................................................... 17 

Refrigeration Unit/Doors .............................................................................................................. 18 

Other Carrier or Load Information ............................................................................................... 18 

Temperature .................................................................................................................................. 18 

Product .......................................................................................................................................... 19 

Brand/Markings ............................................................................................................................ 21 

A. No Brand..................................................................................................................... 22 

B. Positive Lot ID (PLI) .................................................................................................. 23 

Origin ............................................................................................................................................ 24 

Lot ID............................................................................................................................................ 24 

Number of Containers/Inspector’s Count ..................................................................................... 25 

DESCRIBING THE PRODUCT .................................................................................................. 28 

Lot................................................................................................................................................. 28 

Average Defects Columns ............................................................................................................ 29 

A. Allowances.................................................................................................................. 30 

B. Reporting Bitter Pit and Jonathan Spot on Apples ..................................................... 32 

C. Condition Standards for Export (Apples) ................................................................... 33 

D. Certifying Combination Grades.................................................................................. 34 

E. Certifying Condition of Pre-cut and Salad Products................................................... 34 

F. Terms Not to Use When No Established U.S. Grade ................................................. 34 

G. Checksum.................................................................................................................... 34 

Offsize/Defects ............................................................................................................................. 35 

A. Offsize......................................................................................................................... 37 

B. Quality......................................................................................................................... 39 

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C. Condition..................................................................................................................... 40 

D. Restricting to Individual Factors of Quality or Condition.......................................... 41 

E. Describing Decay or Soft Rot..................................................................................... 41 

F. Checksum.................................................................................................................... 43 

Other ............................................................................................................................................. 43 

A. Number of Fruit Examined/Defective Fruit................................................................ 45 

Grade............................................................................................................................................. 46 

Remarks ........................................................................................................................................ 49 

Inspector’s Signature .................................................................................................................... 50 

Market Office................................................................................................................................ 50 

Estimated Total ............................................................................................................................. 50 

APPENDIX 1: ORIGIN CODES................................................................................................. 51 

APPENDIX 2: PRODUCT CODES............................................................................................ 54 

APPENDIX 3: DEFECT CODES (SORTED BY DESCRIPTION)........................................... 58 

APPENDIX 4: FV-300 CERTIFICATE EXAMPLES ............................................................... 69 

Example # 1A: Broccoli – Superseded Certificate ...................................................................... 69 

Example # 1B: Broccoli – Corrected Certificate ......................................................................... 70 

Example # 2: Cabbage – Partly Unloaded, Live Worms............................................................. 71 

Example # 3: Plums (Condition Only) and Cilantro (NOG) ....................................................... 72 

Example # 4: Potatoes – Visible Sprouts..................................................................................... 73 

Example # 5: Onions – Partly Unloaded, Staining ...................................................................... 74 

Example # 6: Apples – Combination Grade, Bitter Pit................................................................ 75 

Example # 7: Fresh Cut – Partly Unloaded ................................................................................. 76 

Example # 8: Sweet Corn (Q & C) and Indian Corn (NOG)....................................................... 77 

Example # 9: Oranges – Excessive Discoloration ....................................................................... 78 

Example # 10: Honeydew Melons – Freezing............................................................................. 79 

Example # 11: Leaf Lettuce – Freezing, Segregated Lot............................................................. 80 

Example # 12: Mixed Fruit & Vegetables – Freezing ................................................................. 81 

Example # 13: Condition of Load and Containers....................................................................... 82

Example # 14: Net Weight........................................................................................................... 83 

Example # 15: Radishes – Pack Ice, Fails in Some Samples....................................................... 84 

Example # 16: Temperatures ....................................................................................................... 85 

Example # 17: Potatoes – Appeal Reversed ................................................................................ 86 

Example # 18: Potatoes – Appeal Sustained................................................................................ 87 

Example # 19: Pistachios............................................................................................................. 88

Example # 20: Brazil Nuts........................................................................................................... 89

Example # 21: Avocados – 8e Import.......................................................................................... 90 

Example # 22: Onions – 8e Import.............................................................................................. 91 

Example # 23: Commodity Procurement for Fresh Potatoes....................................................... 92 

Example # 24: Cantaloups – Mixed on Pallets, Soluble Solids................................................... 93 

Example # 25: Mixed Commodities ............................................................................................ 94

Example # 26: Potatoes – Bulk Load........................................................................................... 95

Example # 27: Potatoes – Mixed, Sprouts................................................................................... 96 

Example # 28: Potatoes – Size A................................................................................................. 97

Example # 29: Strawberries – Quality and Condition ................................................................. 98 

Example # 30: Tomatoes – US 1, US Combination, US 2 .......................................................... 99 

Example # 31: Carrots – Quality and Condition........................................................................ 100 

Example # 32: Christmas Trees ................................................................................................. 101 

ii 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

102

103

104

105

106

107

108

109

110

111

112

Example # 33: Grapes – Quality and Condition ........................................................................ 

Example # 34: Cucumbers – Quality and Condition, Count ..................................................... 

Example # 35: Kiwifruit – Soluble Solids ................................................................................. 

Example # 36: Onions – Partly Unloaded, Fails on Size........................................................... 

Example # 37: Peppers – Mixed Color...................................................................................... 

Example # 38: Peppers – Specified Color ................................................................................. 

Example # 39: Fresh Peas and Pea Pods.................................................................................... 

Example # 40: Asparagus – Quality and Condition................................................................... 

Example # 41: Peppers – Specified Color and Size................................................................... 

Example # 42: Apples – Stem Punctures................................................................................... 

Example # 43: Eggplant – Mixed .............................................................................................. 

iii 
(This page intentionally blank) 

iv 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 1 of 112 

INTRODUCTION 

These instructions contain information and guidelines to help personnel of the USDA Specialty 

Crops Inspection (SCI) Division uniformly complete the Fruit and Vegetable Inspection 

Certificate (FV-300). This guidance does not include instructions unique to FEIRS FV-300 

Inspection Certificates. 

These instructions supersede all prior instructions on writing certificates, including the 1992 

edition of this instruction, General Market Manual, and guidance found in commodity inspection 

instructions. These instructions do not supersede or change any sampling or grading procedures 

or policies. 

GUIDE FOR ELECTRONIC USAGE 

The AIM system of instructional manuals is available electronically in Adobe Acrobat Portable 

Document Format (PDF) at the following intranet address: 

http://agnis/sites/FV/PPB/AIM/default.aspx. 

When accessed electronically, AIM materials have hyperlinks and hypertext (visible as 

underlined blue text) available to the PDF user. Clicking on a hyperlink takes the reader to a 

web site with information relating to the subject. Hypertext links the reader to a different page 

within the current manual, or even a different manual, with information relating to the subject. 

For example, the hypertext in the Table of Contents allows a reader to go directly to the section 

of interest in the manual by clicking on the section title. 

PDF offers a variety of tools depending on the Adobe version the reader has. The newer the 

version, the more tools available. PDF documents are easily searchable for content within a 

document or within multiple documents. To learn about the variety of PDF search options: 

• Click on the “Help” tab on the top of any page in Adobe Acrobat, 

• Then click on the “Adobe Acrobat Help” bar, 

• Type the word “Search” in the “Search” box, and click on the “Search” button, 

• A series of options will become available, 

• Click on the “Access Search Features” link and follow the instructions for the type of search 

you are interested in. 

GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS 

Use the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Inspection Certificate (FV-300) for all regular commercial 

receiving point inspections at terminal markets, en route/export certification (see following 

exceptions), and import certification. An FV-300 serial number may be cross-referenced on 

export certification documents if the product meets export requirements. 

Exceptions: Use the Memorandum of Inspection for Canadian Destinations (FV-205) for exports 

to Canada as it is the only certificate recognized by Canadian Customs for certification of 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 2 of 112 

compliance with Canadian import requirements. Use the Export Form Certificate for NonCanadian Destinations (FV-207) for certification of products exported to countries other than 

Canada under the export fruit acts. 

The FV-300s are serially numbered, and each office is supplied with books of certificates with 

consecutive numbers. If possible, issue certificates in ascending numerical order. Before issuing 

a certificate, verify that each certificate copy bears the same number as the original. If the serial 

number on the certificate does not match the number(s) on the copies, void that certificate and 

report it to the Inspection Branch (Operations). 

The certificate is accompanied by Form FV-300N, which is the standardized notesheet used to 

record the results of the inspection. Form FV-300N is the only notesheet authorized for use in 

terminal market inspections. Development of other versions of this form for local use, such as 

state computer generated notesheets, must be approved. The notesheet must contain all 

information that appears on the certificate, as well as any other information as directed by 

instructions in this manual. Do not report descriptions of positive grade requirements, which will 

never be used on the certificate. In addition, do not describe the number of rows, number of 

layers, and lengthwise/crosswise orientation of the load unless they affect the condition of the 

product (see Loading section). 

The certificate gives applicants a clear, concise, official report at the time of the inspection to 

facilitate timely settlements based on official inspection results. The notesheet allows authorized 

SCI Division staff members to issue a certificate based on the data on the notesheet. A copy of 

the certificate is provided to the applicant and listed shipper upon completion. 

The notesheet must be complete and legible, allowing any inspector to write a complete 

certificate from it. 

Data Stubs 

Data stubs are nearly obsolete so most of the instructions pertaining to them have been removed. 

Do not complete the data stub unless otherwise directed. 

If you are directed to do so, only complete the “PURPOSE,” “CWT” (hundredweight), and fee 

sections using the following purpose codes: 

• QAC: Quality and Condition inspection. 

• CON: Condition only inspection. 

• SEE: Section 8(e) import inspection. 

• IMQ: Quality and Condition import inspections at point of entry not under Section 8e. 

• IMC: Condition only inspection on imports at point of entry not under Section 8e. 

• NOG: No established U.S. Grade. 

• DMP: Dump inspection. 

• FRZ: Freezing statement only. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 3 of 112 

• ORC: Ornamental crops (cut flowers and Christmas trees). 

• NUT: Nut inspection (tree nuts and peanuts). 

• OTH: Other, including count only, net weight only, size only, temperature only, raw 

products for processing with standards that do not stipulate tolerances (e.g. pickling 

cucumbers), and other inspections not listed above. 

Examples: 

R EVERSES/ ACTION FV-300 CERTIFICATE NUMBER 

S USTAINS/ 

C ORRECTS: -

CONTINUES: - M M D D Y Y HOUR MIN A/P 

REQ.: : M 

COM.: : M 

PURPOSE PRODUCT TYPE CWT 

A Q A C 3 2 5 

B 

ON-SITE: QUALITY FULL: 1 & HOURS: 0 . 5

COND. HALF: O.T. (hrs): . 

FULL: TRAVEL: COND. HALF: MILES: 7 5 

LOT SRCHG: O.T. (hrs): 0 . 5 

INSP. BY: OTHER: 

3 . 0 0 Assist. $ 

If you are asked to do a quality and condition or condition only inspection combined with count, 

net weight, size, etc., enter the “QAC” code for that lot. 

For CWT, enter the approximate hundredweight of each lot reported. Hundredweight can be 

determined by multiplying the number of packages times the weight on the container or the 

standard weight for the container used, or by using the total manifested weight (for bulk loads), 

divided by 100. Round up to the next highest hundredweight if the resulting fraction is .50 or 

more, and round down to the next lower hundredweight if the fraction is .49 or less. For 

example, 61 cartons weighing 25 lbs. each (61 X 25 lbs.) equals 1525 lbs. 1525 lbs. divided by 

100 equals 15.25, which would be rounded down to a CWT of 15. 

Superseding Certificates 

A. Certificates with Errors 

Never make corrections on the following vital points of the certificate: 

• Carrier initials or numbers 

• Date 

• Time 

• Name of applicant or shipper 

• Grade statements 

• Percentages of defects or size 

• Number of packages 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 4 of 112 

If a mistake is discovered on a vital point before certificate issuance, void the 

certificate. When voiding a certificate, write the word “VOID” in large letters 

across the center of the certificate. If a mistake is discovered on a vital point after 

issuance, supersede the certificate. 

Corrections of other information (non-vital points) may be made on the 

certificate. Initial the change(s) on all copies of the certificate and never allow the 

original certificate to leave your control. See example below. 

OTHER 

MOSTLY FIRM, SOME FIRM RIPE 

MANY DGH 

B. Certificates with Duplicate Numbers 

If two certificates are given the same serial number and are issued prior to 

discovery of the duplicate numbers, recall all outstanding copies of one set, 

including the original, and issue a superseding certificate. Include the number of 

the certificate being superseded and date of the inspection under “REMARKS” of 

the superseding certificate. If the certificate being superseded and the certificate 

with the duplicate serial number were issued on the same day, include the 

commodity, number of packages, and any information that makes one certificate 

different from the other in the “REMARKS” section as shown below. 

REMARKS: THIS CERTIFICATE SUPERSEDES CERTIFICATE NUMBER T-XXXXXX-X, DATED JULY 19,2013, 

FOR 500 CARTONS OF GRANNY SMITH APPLES ACCOUNT DUPLICATE SERIAL NUMBERS. 

C. For All Superseded Certificates 

Write “CORRECTED” in capital letters directly above the serial number as 

shown below (red letters optional). 

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE 

INSPECTION CERTIFICATE 

CORRECTED M - XXXXXX-2 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 5 of 112 

Enter a statement such as the one in the example below in the “REMARKS” 

section of the correcting certificate, showing the reason for correcting the 

certificate. 

THIS CERTIFICATE SUPERSEDES CERTIFICATE NUMBER T-XXXXXX-X ACCOUNT INCORRECT REMARKS: PERCENTAGE OF DECAY. 

On the file copy of all superseded certificates write the following statement across 

the face of the certificate in large letters and red ink: “Superseded by certificate 

[number]” (see example certificate number’s 1A and 1B). 

Do not record a fee on a superseding certificate. Instead, reference the original 

certificate number in the fee block as shown below. This policy will help prevent 

applicants from being billed twice for the inspection. 

ESTIMATED TOTAL 

SEE T-XXXXXX-1 

Appeal Certificates 

A. When an appeal is honored 

When an appeal is honored include the following on the certificate: 

Write “APPEAL” in capital letters directly above the serial number as shown 

below (red letters optional). 

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE 

INSPECTION CERTIFICATE 

APPEAL M - XXXXXX-2 

Make a statement, such as the one below, on the certificate (also see example 

certificate numbers 9, 17 and 18). 

% THIS COVERS AN APPEAL INSPECTION ON THE ABOVE DESCRIBED 

% LOT WHICH WAS PREVIOUSLY INSPECTED ON [DATE] AND REPORTED ON 

% 

% 

FEDERAL CERTIFICATE [M-XXXXXX-X] WHICH IS HEREBY [REVERSED/SUSTAINED] 

AS TO [QUALITY, CONDITION AND/OR GRADE, ETC., AS THE CASE MAY BE]. 

If only a portion of the load, such as only one lot, one size, or one grower number, 

is reversed, issue a separate certificate for the remaining portion that was 

sustained (each cross-referenced). 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 6 of 112 

B. When an appeal is not honored 

When an appeal is not honored or it’s determined that there is no appeal (see 

General Market Inspection Instructions), handle the certificate as a reinspection. 

Cross reference the second certificate to the first by a statement in the 

“REMARKS” OR “OTHER” section of the certificate and report the reason it was 

not honored, as shown in the example below. 

% APPEAL REQUESTED ON CONDITION FACTORS ON M-XXXXXX-X BUT NOT 

HONORED DUE TO TIME LAPSE AND HIGH TEMPERATURES. 

Examples of “REMARKS” statements for lots handled as reinspections. 

REMARKS: THIS LOT WAS PREVIOUSLY INSPECTED ON [DATE] AND REPORTED ON 

FEDERAL CERTIFICATE [M-XXXXXX-X]. 

REMARKS: LOT A AND PORTION OF LOT B WERE PREVIOUSLY INSPECTED ON [DATE] AND REPORTED 

ON FEDERAL CERTIFICATE [M-XXXXXX-X]. 

REMARKS: APPLICANT STATES PORTION OF LOT INSPECTED ON [DATE] AND REPORTED 

ON FEDERAL CERTIFICATE [M-XXXXXX-X]. 

C. Fees 

Apply the regular fee when an appeal inspection sustains the previous inspection. 

Charge no fee when an appeal inspection reverses the previous inspection, except 

when PACA is the applicant or in the case of a market on shipping point appeal. 

In the “ESTIMATED TOTAL” block reference the original certificate as shown 

below. 

ESTIMATED TOTAL 

SEE M-XXXXXX-X 

If there is mileage, overtime, or other related expenses involved, charge the 

applicant. Report the expenses in the “ESTIMATED TOTAL” block. Also, 

make a statement in “REMARKS” explaining that the “ESTIMATED TOTAL” 

does not include an inspection fee, but only reflects additional expenses incurred 

as shown in the following example. 
 

 

 

SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 7 of 112 

REMARKS: NO INSPECTION FEE WAS APPLIED. ESTIMATED TOTAL REFLECTS ADDITIONAL EXPENSES 

INCURRED. 

If a portion of the load is sustained, issue a separate certificate charging the 

regular fee for that portion. Any additional expenses incurred will also be 

charged to the applicant. 

When PACA is the applicant, charge an hourly rate for the inspection time, plus 

any related expenses or overtime. 

If an appeal is not honored (handled as a reinspection), apply the regular fee plus 

any related expenses. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SCI Division Inspection Series 

Effective Date: March 2015 

Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Page 8 of 112 

IDENTIFYING THE INSPECTION 

Inspection Started 

Show the date and hour in these blocks on the certificate at the time the inspection process 

begins. Include leading zeroes when completing each area of the date and time section so that all 

entries are two digits. 

Examples: 

For June 12, 2013, at 11:30 am, enter: 

m m d d y y hour min A/P 

0 6 1 2 1 3 1 1 3 0 A M 

For July 5, 2013, at 12:00 noon, enter: 

m m d d y y hour min A/P 

0 7 0 5 1 3 1 2 0 0 P M 

If the inspection is completed the following day or at a later date, also show the date and hour of 

completion under “REMARKS,” along with a brief explanation. Record the exact local time on 

the certificate. Make no reference to standard or daylight savings time. 

Applicant/Address 

The party requesting the inspection is the applicant. The applicant may be a shipper, receiver, 

broker, carrier, or government agency, and is always responsible for fees and expenses, 

regardless of what agreements they may have with other parties. One party cannot request an 

inspection in the name of another party. 

In addition to the applicant’s name, enter the address (city and state) on all certificates. 

Shipper/Address 

Enter the company name and address (city and state) of the shipper on all certificates, if known. 

If it is not possible to obtain the name and address of the shipper, write “Unknown” in this block. 

Never leave this block blank. 
 

 

 

 

SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 9 of 112 

Inspection Site 

The site is the actual location where the inspection is performed. If the inspection site is the 

same location as the “Applicant,” enter “Applicant's warehouse,” “Applicant's store,” 

“Applicant's rail siding,” etc. as shown below. 

Applicant: 

PRODUCE WHOLESALE, INC 

Address: 

MARKET CITY, STATE 

Shipper: 

PRODUCE SHIPPER, INC. 

Address: 

SHIPPING POINT, STATE 

Insp. Site: 

APPLICANT'S STORE 

If an applicant has more than one facility, enter the locally accepted name of the facility, such as 

“Applicant's Warehouse #1,” “Plant #3,” “Main Store,” etc. as shown below. In such cases it 

will not be necessary to enter the city and state again. 

Applicant: 

CHAIN STORE CO., INC 

Address: 

SOMEWHERE, STATE 

Shipper: 

SUPER SHIPPERS, LLT. 

Address: 

ANYWHERE, STATE 

Insp. Site: 

APPLICANT'S OHIO WAREHOUSE #3 

If the inspection site is different from the previous “Applicant” information, record where the 

inspection was performed and the city and state of the inspection site as shown below. 

Applicant: 

CHAIN STORE CO., INC 

Address: 

SOMEWHERE, STATE 

Shipper: 

SUPER SHIPPERS, LLT. 

Address: 

ANYWHERE, STATE 

Insp. Site: 

SOMEWHERE ELSE, STATE 

Applicant: 

PRODUCE IMPORTERS, INC 

Address: 

PORT CITY, STATE 

Shipper: 

TROPICAL FRUIT BROKERAGE 

Address: 

PORT CITY, STATE 

Insp. Site: 

INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, STATE 
SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 10 of 112 

If the product(s) being inspected are located at two or more different sites, even though they may 

be part of the same shipment and for the same applicant, treat the product at each site as a 

separate inspection and certify on separate certificates. 

Carrier or Lot Identification 

Enter the appropriate information in each portion of the “CARRIER OR LOT ID” block (prefix, 

number, state when applicable) whenever a carrier or license number is available. Enter this 

information here regardless of whether or not you observed the conveyance or license number. 

Examples: 

Railcar marked UPFE 456789: “UPFE” is the prefix, “456789” are the numbers, and the state 

category is left blank. 

CARRIER OR LOT IDENTIFICATION 

U P F E 4 5 6 7 8 9 

PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

Trailer with License Plate ST 1234TC Florida: “ST” is the prefix, “1234TC” are the numbers 

and “FL” is the state. 

CARRIER OR LOT IDENTIFICATION 

S T 1 2 3 4 T C F L 

PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

CARRIER OR LOT IDENTIFICATION 

S T 1 2 3 4 T C F L 

PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

When the prefix or the number contain less than the number of letters or digits allotted for them 

on the certificate, it makes no difference which of the allotted spaces are used to enter the 

information. In the example above the prefix “ST” may be entered in the first two spaces for 

prefix or in the last two. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 11 of 112 

In instances when you cannot see the conveyance number or license plate number, complete the 

“Carrier / Lot ID Stated By:” section by showing the name of the source providing the 

information. 

CARRIER OR LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

S T 1 2 3 4 T C F L 

U L 

PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional lot ID: 

MANIFEST 

Carrier Type / Name: 

Refrigeration Unit: Doors: 

On Off Open Closed 

If a carrier or license number is not available but other identification assigned by the applicant is 

available, such as a Purchase Order number, Lot number, or Bill of Lading number, etc., then 

enter as appropriate “LOT” or “PO” or “B/L” in the “PREFIX” block and enter the number in 

the “NUMBER” block. Enter this information in this block only when the lot(s) is unloaded and 

the carrier or license plate number is not available. Whenever the number of digits and/or letters 

entered in the “number” block exceeds seven, then enter the first seven numbers or combination 

of numbers and letters. 

NOTE: Never enter Positive Lot Identification (PLI) numbers in this section of the certificate, 

which is reserved for carrier identification or applicant's/receiver's identification. See the 

sections on Brand/Markings and Lot ID for instructions on entering PLI numbers. 

Examples of prefix numbers: 

L O T _ 1 2 3 4 _ = Lot number 1234. 

P O _ _ 5 6 7 = Purchase Order number 567. 

B / L _ 8 9 1 2 3 4 5 = Bill of Lading number 8912345. 

R E F _ 3 2 1 9 = Reference number 3219. 

S I N _ 7 6 5 4 3 2 = Shipper's invoice number 765432. 

M A N _ 1 9 8 7 1 _ _ = Manifest number 19871. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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When the carrier is a ship or an airplane, use “SHIP” or “AIR” in the “PREFIX” block and give 

the full name of the ship, vessel, or the number of the air bill, sea container, or flight number in 

the “Carrier Type / Name” block. Also include the source of the information in the “Carrier / 

Lot ID Stated by:” block as shown below. 

CARRIER OR LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

S H I P 

U L 

PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional lot ID: 

APPLICANT 

Carrier Type / Name: 

S.S.AMERICAN STAR 

CARRIER OR LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

A I R 

U L 

PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional lot ID: 

APPLICANT’S AIRBILL 

Carrier Type / Name: 

UNITED FLIGHT # 3107-A 

If you are able to read the license plate, railcar number, ship name, etc., enter “Inspector” in the 

“Carrier / Lot ID Stated by:” block (see Loading and Carrier Lot ID Stated By sections). 

In the interest of more complete certification, if any other lot identifications (other than PLI) are 

given in addition to the carrier or license number, show them in the “Additional Lot ID” block. 

Example: 

CARRIER OR LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

U P F E 0 1 2 3 4 5 

U L 

PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional lot ID: 

MANIFEST P.O. # 519501 

Carrier Type / Name: 

Refrigeration Unit: Doors: 

On Off Open Closed 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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If no form of identification is available, enter “NOID” in the “PREFIX” or “NUMBER” sections 

of the “CARRIER OR LOT IDENTIFICATION” block and draw a line through the “Carrier / 

Lot ID Stated by:” and “Additional Lot ID:” blocks. 

Example: 

CARRIER OR LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

N O I D 

L I 

PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional lot ID: 

Carrier Type / Name: 

Refrigeration Unit: Doors: 

On Off Open Closed 

NOTE: Make every effort to obtain some form of identification on the lot such as conveyance 

number, license number, applicant's lot number, purchase order number, bill of lading number, 

etc., as such identification increases the certificate value to all financially interested parties. 

Loading 

Enter one of the two letter codes to denote whether the load or lot(s) being certified is loaded, 

partly unloaded, unloaded, or is a lot inspection. Never leave this block blank. 

LOADED (code LO) means that the entire lot or lots being certified are observed on the 

conveyance by the inspector. The load may or may not be in the process of being unloaded 

during the inspection, but you must see the entire lot on the conveyance prior to the beginning of 

the unloading process to classify as loaded. 

Example: 

CARRIER OR LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

S T 6 2 3 1 6 N C 

L O 

PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional lot ID: 

INSPECTOR 

Carrier Type / Name: 

VENTED TRAILER 

Refrigeration Unit: Doors: 

On Off X Open Closed 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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PARTLY UNLOADED (code PU) means the lot(s) being certified has been partly unloaded. 

This will always indicate that there will be at least two lots for certification purposes, a loaded lot 

and an unloaded lot. There may also be more than one loaded and/or unloaded lot. Identify such 

loaded and unloaded lots separately in the “LOT ID” blocks, which are discussed later. 

Example: 

CARRIER OR LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

S T 7 0 7 1 9 A O K 

P U 

PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional lot ID: 

INSPECTOR LOT 477 

Carrier Type / Name: 

MECH. REFRIG. TRAILER 

Refrigeration Unit: Doors: 

On X Off X Open Closed 

UNLOADED (code UL) means that the lot(s) being certified is entirely unloaded at the time of 

inspection. Use this code only when a lot identification number or carrier number is entered in 

the “CARRIER OR LOT IDENTIFICATION” block. 

Example: 

CARRIER OR LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

L 1 2 3 4 5 G A 

U L 

PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional lot ID: 

APPLICANT B/L # A-623414 

Carrier Type / Name: 

Refrigeration Unit: Doors: 

On Off Open Closed 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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LOT INSPECTION (code LI) means that the lot(s) being certified is not on the conveyance at 

the time of inspection and no identification of the lot or load is available (enter “NOID" in the 

“CARRIER OR LOT IDENTIFICATION” block). Never use the code (LI) whenever there is 

any lot identification available for the lot(s). 

Example: 

CARRIER OR LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

N O I D 

L I 

PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional lot ID: 

Carrier Type / Name: 

Refrigeration Unit: Doors: 

On Off Open Closed 

The “CARRIER OR LOT IDENTIFICATION” block pertains to the product or products being 

inspected and certified at the time and date indicated. It does not refer to product(s) which may 

have been on the same load at one time but were unloaded at another place or time, and are not 

being inspected and certified as part of the current inspection. 

SENARIO: An applicant calls for an inspection on 400 cartons of lettuce. 

You arrive to find a half of a load of lettuce (400 cartons) on a trailer, but the driver says 

400 cartons of the same lettuce were unloaded somewhere else. The “Loaded” (LO) code 

should be entered, since the entire requested lot for inspection (400 cartons) is on the 

trailer. The 400 cartons previously unloaded have no bearing on this entry and are not 

part of this inspection and certification. 

If you arrive to find 300 cartons on the trailer and 100 cartons on the dock and are told 

the 100 cartons is from the same trailer, enter the “Partly Unloaded” code (PU) and show 

two lots, a loaded lot and an unloaded lot, in the “LOT ID” section. In this case, keep 

separate samples for each lot on the notesheet and enter separate results on the certificate 

(see example certificate numbers 2, 5 and 7). 

Carrier / Lot ID Stated By 

Use this block to report the source of the information shown in the “CARRIER OR LOT 

IDENTIFICATION” block. The source of carrier numbers may be, but is not limited to, any of 

the following: 

• Applicant 

• Shipper 

• Broker 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Effective Date: March 2015 Page 16 of 112 

• Carrier’s agent 

• Manifest 

• Bill of Lading 

• Purchase order 

• Inspector 

Whenever the load is certified as loaded (LO) or partly unloaded (PU), make every effort to 

personally observe the conveyance number or license plate number. This may involve climbing 

down from the dock to try to see the number or asking the driver to pull the trailer forward. 

When the number is still not visible, show in this block the source of the carrier number with a 

statement in the “REMARKS” section as follows: “Trailer license not accessible at time of 

inspection.” Whenever the load is certified as loaded or partly unloaded and you are certifying 

the carrier number, write the word “Inspector” in this block. 

Example: 

CARRIER OR LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

2 3 4 5 6 7 M O 

P U 

PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional lot ID: 

INSPECTOR LOT 475 

Carrier Type / Name: 

MECHANICAL REFRIGERATED TRAILER 

Refrigeration Unit: Doors: 

X On Off X Open Closed 

When the load is certified as loaded (LO) or partly unloaded (PU) and you cannot visually 

certify the carrier number, or when the load is certified as unloaded (UL) and the carrier number 

is reported in the “CARRIER OR LOT IDENTIFICATION” block, record the source of the 

carrier number in the space provided. 

Example: 

CARRIER OR LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

S L 6 1 6 T C T X 

L O 

PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional lot ID: 

MANIFEST B/L # A-161601 

Carrier Type / Name: 

OPEN TOP TRAILER 

Refrigeration Unit: Doors: 

On Off Open Closed 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Effective Date: March 2015 Page 17 of 112 

Additional Lot ID 

When additional lot identification other than PLI or carrier numbers is available, or when 

requested by the applicant, show such identification (P.O. No., Lot No., B/L No., etc.) in this 

block. If this block is not used, draw a line through the block. 

Carrier Type / Name 

Enter the type of carrier when the load is loaded or partly unloaded. Carriers used for shipping 

fresh fruits and vegetables may be described in a number of ways. Some examples are open top 

trailer, insulated box car, open ventilated trailer, mechanical refrigerated trailer, refrigerated 

railcar, etc. If any distinctive type or carrier is used, the special name may be given provided it is 

an official name registered with the transportation company. 

If the inspection covered an unloaded lot from a ship or an air shipment, enter the complete name 

of the ship, the air bill number, or the flight number as applicable. If the inspection covered an 

unloaded lot from any type of carrier other than a ship or airplane, or covered a lot inspection, 

draw a line through this block. 

Example of a SHIP: 

CARRIER OR LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

S H I P 

U L 

PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional lot ID: 

MANIFEST LOT 23219 

Carrier Type / Name: 

S.S. NORWAY CLIPPER 

Refrigeration Unit: Doors: 

On Off Open Closed 

Example of an AIR SHIPMENT: 

CARRIER OR LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

A I R 

U L 

PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional lot ID: 

APPLICANT P.O. # AA107 

Carrier Type / Name: 

AMERICAN AIRLINES AIRBILL # 1106AT317BL107-69 

Refrigeration Unit: Doors: 

On Off Open Closed 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Example of an UNLOADED LOT: 

CARRIER OR LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

L O T 2 3 2 

U L 

PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional lot ID: 

APPLICANT 

Carrier Type / Name: 

Refrigeration Unit: Doors: 

On Off Open Closed 

Refrigeration Unit/Doors 

When the product is inspected on the carrier and the carrier has a refrigeration or temperature 

control unit, mark the appropriate block indicating whether the refrigeration unit was “on” or 

“off” at the time of the inspection. Also check whether any doors (side or rear) were “open” 

when you arrive; if no doors were open, check “closed.” 

Other Carrier or Load Information 

Report situations, such as open or closed vents, load dividers, top ice, heaters, holes in walls or 

doors, damage to the insulation, load shifts, or any other factor which could affect the condition 

of the product. Whenever you believe one or more of these items are important, report them in 

“REMARKS,” or any unused space in the “OFFSIZE/DEFECTS” and/or “OTHER” sections. 

When they have no bearing on any condition problems found during the inspection, these items 

may be reported on the notesheet but not on the certificate. 

Temperature 

Take pulp temperature of products and report them on all lots inspected for quality and/or 

condition, whether unloaded or loaded, or in refrigerated or non-refrigerated locations. When 

two or more lots are being certified, report the highest and lowest temperatures for each lot in the 

“TEMPERATURE” block of the certificate. When certifying multiple lots (A, B, C, and/or D), 

do not combine the temperatures of the lots, but report the high and low temperatures for each 

lot. 

Although most of the temperatures taken will usually be recorded only on the notesheet and the 

range recorded on the certificate, report instances of unusually high or low temperatures or 

extreme ranges of temperatures, which may have an important bearing on the condition of the 

product, in greater detail in “REMARKS,” or any unused space in the “OFFSIZE/DEFECTS” 

and/or “OTHER” sections of the certificate. 
SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 19 of 112 

See examples below and example certificate number 16: 

OFFSIZE/DEFECTS 

% TEMPERATURES: 63 TO 70°F IN OUTER CARTONS OF PALLET AND 40 TO 46°F 

% IN CENTER OF PALLET. 

OFFSIZE/DEFECTS 

% TEMPERATURES: TWO PALLETS IN APPLICANT’S COOLER: 35 TO 37°F 

THREE PALLETS ON LOADING DOCK: 59 TO 64°F IN OUTER CARTONS AND 

44 TO 50°F IN CENTER OF PALLETS. 

% 

% 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NOTE: Record all temperatures on the certificate and notesheet to the nearest whole degree. 

Round to the next higher degree readings from digital thermometers ending in “.5” or higher, and 

round downward those ending in “.4” or lower. 

Product 

Show the common name of the commodity under this heading. When applicable, the type may 

also be shown under this heading, or when clearer or more convenient, it may be shown in the 

“BRAND/MARKINGS,” “ORIGIN” or “LOT ID” blocks as appropriate. The type may be 

indicated in the “PRODUCT” block, but as a general rule, do not state variety in this block. 

TIP: If you are having difficulty knowing how to report the name of a commodity (i.e. “Sweet 

Peppers” or “Peppers, Sweet”) refer the guidelines in the commodity inspection instructions. If 

still unclear, look up the title of the standards. 

Examples: 

Product: Product: Product: 

LEAF LETTUCE, RED BGG ONIONS, YELLOW TABLE GRAPES 

ICEBERG LETTUCE NORTHERN ONIONS, RED TOMATOES 

NECTARINES CABBAGE, DANISH TOMATOES ON THE VINE 

SWEET CHERRIES SQUASH, SUMMER GRAPE TOMATOES 

Product: Product: Product: 

SPINACH LEAVES POTATOES, MIXED BROCCOLI, CROWNS 

APPLES, RED POTATOES, RUSSET BROCCOLI, FLORETS 

GREENHOUSE 

CUCUMBERS POTATOES, LONG WHITE BROCCOLI, BUNCHED 

HONEYDEW MELONS POTATOES, ROUND RED SWEET PEPPERS, RED 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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The following commodities will always identify one of the types as shown in the following table 

in addition to the product name, but, as stated previously, the type does not necessarily have to 

be shown in the “PRODUCT” block: 

PRODUCT TYPE 

Apples: Red, Yellow, Green 

Broccoli: Bunched, Crowns, Florets 

Cabbage: Domestic, Danish, Red, Savoy 

Cucumbers: Fresh, Pickling, Greenhouse 

Grapefruit: California, Florida, Texas 

Lettuce: Iceberg, Boston, Red Leaf, Green Leaf, Butter 

BGG Onions: Yellow, White, Red, Brown, Mixed Color 

Northern Onions: Yellow, White, Red, Brown, Mixed Color 

Oranges: California, Florida, Texas 

Sweet Peppers: Red, Yellow, Orange, etc. 

Potatoes: Round White, Round Red, Long White, Russet, Mixed 

Spinach: Plants, Leaves, Bunched 

Squash: Summer, Winter 

Tangerines: Florida, Other 

Tomatoes: Fresh, Cherry, Plum, Grape, Greenhouse, On the Vine 

On domestically grown Grapefruit, Oranges, and Tangerines, it is not necessary to enter the type 

in the “PRODUCT” block since the type can easily be captured from the “ORIGIN” block. If 

the origin is foreign, enter (C), (F), or (T) after the product name to indicate the type as 

California, Florida, or Texas based on which standard is used. 

Example: 

Product: Brand/Markings: Origin 

TANGERINES (F) “DESERT DELIGHT” 30 COUNT M R 

ORANGES (C) “JUNGLE GROWN” VALENCIA 72 CT B Z 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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On Squash, enter the common name of the product (Zucchini, Acorn, etc.) in the 

BRAND/MARKINGS” or “LOT ID” blocks, not in the “PRODUCT” block. 

Example: 

Product: Brand/Markings: Origin 

SUMMER SQUASH “LUCY’S BEST” ZUCCHINI, MEDIUM F L 

WINTER SQUASH “LUCY’S BEST” ACORN, 40 LBS G A 

Cross out all lines that are not used under the “TEMPERATURE,” “PRODUCT,” 

“BRAND/MARKINGS,” “ORIGIN,” “LOT ID” or “NUMBER OF CONTAINERS” headings 

by using one of the methods shown below. 

Product: 

NAPPA 

BOK CHOY 

Product: 

CAULIFLOWER 

CELERY, TRIMMED 

Product: 

EGGPLANT, MIXED 

SWEET CORN, BI-COLOR 

Product: 

BUNCHED RADISHES 

NORTHERN ONIONS, WHITE 

When practical, do not mix and match methods in this section of the certificate. Instead, 

whatever method you use, have lines in this section of the certificate flow in the same direction 

as shown below. Apply this principle for the entire certificate. 

Product: Brand/Markings: Origin Lot ID: Number of Containers: Insp 

count 

POTATOES, MIXED “JEWEL MIX BRAND” 10/5 LB. I D RED/WHITE/YELLOW 200 MASTER SACKS Y 

POTATOES, MIXED “JOE’S SPECIAL” U.S. NO. 1. 5/10 LB. I D LONG WHITE, RUSSET, 100 CARTONS Y 

ROUND RED 

Brand/Markings 

Always have the brand name be the first entry in the block and enclose it in quotation marks. Do 

not enclose other markings in quotations. Enter other key markings as necessary to properly 

identify the lot for certification. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

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When the certificate contains less than four lots for certification, use the additional line(s) in this 

block for additional markings as needed. If additional space is needed when certifying multiple 

lots, use the adjacent “LOT ID” block. You may also continue under “REMARKS,” or any 

unused space in the “OFFSIZE/DEFECTS” and/or “OTHER,” sections. 

All container markings need not be shown on the certificate; only those markings necessary to 

identify the lot being certified. Show all markings on the notesheet which could have a bearing 

on possible misbranding cases. Such markings may be, but are not limited to, weight or count, 

size, variety, grade, and state of origin or country (if imported). If misbranding is actually 

indicated by the inspection, the marking(s) which cause the lot to be misbranded must be shown 

on the certificate in the Brand/Markings block. 

Example: 

Brand/Markings: Origin 

“BUD” 24 HEADS C A 

“GREEN GIANT” U.S. NO. 1, 5 LBS. I D 

“BLUE ANCHOR” (SEE REMARKS) W A 

“DAVID DEL CURTO” 18 LBS. FLAME C E 

A. No Brand 

When there are no brands, report “No Brand” using quotation marks. Generic 

markings such as Florida Vegetables or Fresh Vegetables are not registered 

trademarks and are not brands; therefore, enter “No Brand” for these types of 

packages unless they have a sticker, inserted label, or stamp otherwise indicating 

a brand. 

In order to identify the lot whenever “No Brand” is entered, always enter the 

name of the shipper if printed or stamped on the package. In rare cases, when 

there are no distinguishing container markings, enter “No Marks” enclosed in 

quotations. 

Example: 

Brand/Markings: Origin 

“NO BRAND” VALLEY FARMS LG G A 

“NO MARKS” P A 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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B. Positive Lot ID (PLI) 

Positive Lot Identification (PLI) consists of Federal and/or Federal-State lot 

stamps and other forms of approved identification, the accountability and control 

of which meet guidelines established by the SCI Division. State inspection lot 

stamps or other stamps which do not reference Federal or Federal-State inspection 

are not PLI and will not be listed as PLI marks on the certificate or the notesheet; 

however, show them as additional identifying marks on the notesheet and/or 

certificate. PLI markings are often the most important of the other markings on 

the container. 

Always note the presence of PLI marks on the certificate. 

If only one or two PLI numbers are noted during the inspection, show them on the 

certificate in the “BRAND/MARKINGS” block, space permitting, or in the “LOT 

ID” block. If the inspection results are reported separately by PLI marks, then the 

PLI numbers are entered for each lot in the applicable “LOT ID” block. If three 

or more PLI numbers are present but are not used to report results separately, then 

enter the term “See Remarks” or “See Below” in the “BRAND/MARKINGS” or 

“LOT ID” blocks and list all of the PLI numbers from which samples were drawn 

in the unused space in the “REMARKS” or “OFFSIZE/DEFECTS” sections. If 

any PLI marks are illegible, indicate the fact on the certificate. 

Some shipping point areas insert or attach consecutively numbered PLI tags into 

packages, particularly sacks of potatoes and onions. When these markings are 

recognized as such during a market inspection, enter “See Below” or “See 

Remarks” in the “BRANDS/MARKINGS” block. Then enter a statement in the 

unused space in the “OFFSIZE/DEFECTS” section or the “REMARKS” section, 

similar to the following: “Consecutive PLI numbers through 

noted.” Enter the smallest number and the highest number noted during the 

inspection. 

Regardless of how the entry is made on the certificate, always record all PLI 

marks in the “PLI Number” column on the notesheet to indicate the PLI number 

of each sample. Documenting PLI numbers is very important in cases of appeal 

inspections or other instances where it becomes necessary to separate the lots for 

certification purposes because of differences in quality or condition. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Example: 

Brand/Markings: Origin Lot ID: 

“ABC” EX LG, FL-10236, FL-10237 F L FL-10238, FL-10239 

“XYZ” 70, 80, 90, 100. 120 SIZE I D SEE BELOW 

“HYLAND” VALENCIA, 72 CT C A FED STATE CA-765435 

“HYLAND” VALENCIA, 72 CT C A FED STATE CA-765432 

Origin 

Enter the two letter abbreviation of the state or country (if imported) of origin for each lot 

certified. Use “OT” when the origin is unknown. 

For produce inspections from Canada, enter the abbreviations for the province of origin if the 

information is clearly stated on either the container or manifest. If the container markings or the 

manifest do not clearly state the province of origin, enter “CN” for Canada. 

NOTE: Refer to APPENDIX 1: ORIGIN CODES for a complete list of approved abbreviations 

for states, Canadian provinces, and foreign countries. 

Lot ID 

Use this block to further add to the identification of the lot inspected, or to distinguish between 

lots or sublots for certification purposes. 

Example: 

Product: Brand/Markings: Origin Lot ID: 

ICEBERG LETTUCE “BUD” 24 HEADS C A FILM WRAPPED 

NORTHERN ONIONS, YELLOW “BIG BULBS” U.S. NO. 1, 50 LBS. O R COLOSSAL 

PEARS “BLUE ANCHOR” D’ANJOU, 20 LBS. C A FED STATE CA-298456 

POTATOES, RUSSET “TOP HAT” U.S. NO. 1, 70/80/90 SIZE I D ID - 98765432 

The certificate will accommodate up to 4 lots, designated as lots A, B, C, and D, with complete 

details on grade and condition factors for each. Whenever the “PRODUCT” and 

“BRAND/MARKINGS” entries are otherwise the same (e.g., four lots of table grapes with all 

the same brand), the “LOT ID” block may be used to further separate and identify which lots or 

portions of lots are being certified as lots A, B, C, and D. Once identified on this line, use the A, 

B, C, and/or D designations throughout the remaining portions of the certificate when referring 

to those lots. 

Whenever more than four lots are certified on one inspection, use the lot designations A, B, C, 

and D on each continuation certificate, not E, F, G, etc. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

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Lot separations may be made at the applicant's request or by you in the interest of formulating a 

clearer picture of the product being certified. The following are different entries which could be 

entered in this block to distinguish different markings, different sizes designated by the 

applicant, different types of packages, different PLI numbers, different parts of a load, etc. 

Examples: 

Lot ID: 

FLAME SEEDLESS 

THOMP. SEEDLESS 

BLACK SEEDLESS 

RIBIER 

Lot ID: 

LOADED 

UNLOADED 

Lot ID: 

COLOSSAL YELLOW 

JUMBO RED 

JUMBO WHITE 

PRE-PACKED YELLOW 

Lot ID: 

GROWER # 55555 

GROWER # 77777 

100 SIZE 

88 SIZE 

Lot ID: 

MAIN LOT 

SEGREGATED LOT 

Lot ID: 

DAMAGED LOT 

UNDAMAGED LOT 

Lot ID: 

2 REAR PALLETS 

TOP LAYER 

REMAINDER OF LOAD 

Lot ID: 

U.S. EXTRA FANCY 

U.S. FANCY 

U.S. NO. 1 

U.S. NO. 2 

Lot ID: 

FED STATE CA-XXXXX1 

FED STATE CA-XXXXX2 

FED STATE CA-XXXXX3 

FED STATE CA-XXXXX4 

Lot ID: 

18 COUNT 

24 COUNT 

30 COUNT 

36 COUNT 

Lot ID: 

SHIFTED LOT 

FROZEN LOT 

HEATED LOT 

Lot ID: 

FILM WRAPPED 

FILM LINED 

NAKED 

Number of Containers/Inspector’s Count 

Enter the number of containers in the lot or portion of lot inspected (or weight for bulk loads), 

and enter the type of package or container in which the produce was shipped. When containers 

are of the standard types commonly used for the product, describe them as “lugs,” “crates,” 

“baskets,” “sacks,” “flats,” “cartons,” etc. When products are shipped in unusual containers or in 

variations of a common type of container, a further description is necessary, such as “foam lugs,” 

“plastic crates,” etc. Do not abbreviate types of containers on the certificate (it’s OK to do so on 

the notesheet). 

“Certify” to all statements made, since the certificate is prima facie evidence in court. Make 

every effort to accurately count the containers. In the “Insp count” block, enter “Y” (yes) when 

you have accurately counted the containers. When it is not possible to do so, enter “N” (no) in 

the “Insp count” block and report the reason for not being able to count the containers in the 

“REMARKS” section. Never leave this block blank. 
 

 

 

 

SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 26 of 112 

Report the number of packages remaining at the time of inspection, not the amount originally 

manifested. Report the quantity covered by your inspection and not the amount shown on the 

manifest. If the amounts differ, the original amount shown on the manifest may be reported 

under “REMARKS” at applicant's request. 

Examples: 

Number of Containers: Insp 

count 

672 CARTONS Y 

REMARKS: APPLICANT STATES THE ORIGINAL COUNT WAS 1200 CARTONS 

When lots are mixed and must be certified separately because of differences in quality or 

condition, and the manifest does not show the count for the different lots, it is permissible to 

show the combined (total) count of the lots with a reference to “See remarks.” In the 

“REMARKS” section give an explanation for not providing separate lot counts and, if possible, 

report in general terms the approximate amount for each lot. 

Examples: 

Number of Containers: Insp 

count 

1000 CARTONS Y 

(SEE REMARKS) 

REMARKS: LOTS NOT ITEMIZED AS TO SIZE AND MIXED ON PALLETS. MOST 

CARTONS MARKED 12 OR 15 COUNT, SOME MARKED 9 COUNT. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 27 of 112 

Do not attempt to certify as “Insp count” the quantity of a load of bulk products. When 

necessary, report the measurements of the length, width, and/or height of the load or pile, or state 

the approximate number of pounds. For bulk inspections, enter “N” (no) in the “Insp count” 

block. 

Example: 

Number of Containers: Insp 

count 

20,000 LBS. N 

REMARKS: BULK LOAD OF POTATOES. INSPECTION RESTRICTED TO UPPER 12 TO 18 INCHES OF LOAD. 

In rare occasions when the product is: 

• Unloaded 

• Not going to be made accessible (restricted) 

• No record is available showing the definite quantity 

Enter “N” (no) in the “Insp count” block and show the approximate amount, provided the load is 

intact. In the “REMARKS” section show the number of visible rows, layers, and stacks used to 

make the approximation. 

Example: 

Number of Containers: Insp 

count 

800 CARTONS N 

REMARKS: NO LOT COUNT AVAILABLE. ESTIMATED LOT COUNT BASED ON VISIBLE PORTION OF LOAD SHOWING 

10 LAYERS, 4 ROWS, AND 20 STACKS. INSPECTION RESTRICTED TO 2 PALLETS NEAREST REAR DOORS. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 28 of 112 

DESCRIBING THE PRODUCT 

The primary purpose of the inspection is to describe, as applicable, the size, quality, and 

condition of the produce. Report these inspection results under the headings, 

“OFFSIZE/DEFECTS” and “OTHER.” List size factors, quality defects, and condition defects 

in a clear, concise, specific, and factual manner in the “OFFSIZE/DEFECTS” section. Show any 

further descriptions of these factors in the “OTHER" section. 

This portion of the certificate will typically list, from left to right: 

• The lot designations from above when more than one lot is certified; 

• The average percentage of each size factor and or defect found; 

• The simple name of the size factor or defect described on that line; and 

• Any “Other” pertinent information relating to size, quality, or condition. 

Lot 

Whenever more than one lot is certified on a certificate, identify all of the information for each 

lot by a letter designation “A,” “B,” “C,” or “D.” This letter designation is written in the space 

provided under “LOT” next to the first line of information for each lot. To separate the lots, 

draw a solid line neatly across the “LOT” column immediately under the last line entry of each 

lot. When there is only one lot on the certificate, leave the “LOT” space blank. Also, when 

more lines are needed for defects, it is not necessary to skip a space between lots. 

Example: 

L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM 

OFFSIZE/DEFECTS 

A. 12 % 05 % % TIPBURN (4 TO 17%) 

02 % 00 % % DISCOLORATION FOLLOWING BRUISING 

01 % 01 % % DECAY, EARLY STAGE 

15 % 06 % % CHECKSUM 

% % % 

B. 20 % 11 % % RUSSET SPOTTING (8 TO 29%) 

05 % 05 % % DISCOLORATION FOLLOWING BROKEN MIDRIBS 

02 % 02 % % DECAY, EARLY STAGE 

27 % 18 % % CHECKSUM 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 29 of 112 

Average Defects Columns 

Do not report percentages of color classifications for tomatoes, percentage of moisture content 

for nuts, percentage of soluble solids, or the blush color of apples, peaches, etc.; report these in 

the “OTHER” section of the certificate. Only report exact whole percentages of defects and/or 

offsize in the “AVERAGE DEFECTS” column, except as noted in the following paragraph. 

Less than whole percentages (e.g. “-1/2,” “.07”) may be reported on the certificate when 

reporting small amounts of decay and/or soft rot, or when reporting percentages for nuts and 

other commodities having standards or inspection instructions that require the determination and 

reporting of percentages in tenths and/or hundredths (see example certificate numbers 19 and 

20). 

In the first column, enter the average percentage for the defect or size factor listed on the same 

line in the “OFFSIZE/DEFECTS” area. Include leading zeroes so that all averages contain at 

least two digits. If the percentage is a single number, precede the number with a zero. When the 

average defects reported include percentages affecting the next more restrictive tolerance or the 

next more serious degree defined in the standard, report those percentages in the adjacent 

column(s) provided. 

Carry over decay, soft rot, or soft to the serious damage column (and very serious damage 

column, when applicable), even if no other serious damage is reported. However, do not use the 

serious damage column if the standards do not have a definition for serious damage (garlic, 

mushrooms, spinach leaves, etc.). At the top of the column(s), designate the degree of the more 

restrictive tolerance (i.e. “SER. DAM,” “V.S. DAM,” etc.) by marking out the heading(s) which 

do not apply. 

Mark out all inapplicable headings over columns and cross out all unused columns. 

Examples: 

L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM 

OFFSIZE/DEFECTS 

06 % 00 % % BRUISING (4 to 8%) 

02 % 02 % % DECAY (0 TO 5%), EARLY STAGES 

08 % 02 % % CHECKSUM 

% % % 

L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM 

OFFSIZE/DEFECTS 

10 % 10 % 10 % SOFT (4 TO 15%) 

06 % 06 % 06 % DECAY (0 TO 14%). ADVANCED STAGES 

16 % 16 % 16 % CHECKSUM 

% % % 
SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 30 of 112 

When inspecting commodities with no U.S. standards (NOGS), report the percentages of defects 

in the “AVERAGE DEFECTS” (first) column and cross out the second and third defects 

columns. Do not cross out the word “DEFECTS” in the “AVERAGE DEFECTS” column or 

rename this column when inspecting NOGS (see following example and example certificate 

number 3). 

L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM 

OFFSIZE/DEFECTS 

04 % % % BROWN SURFACE DISCOLORATION AFFECTING 10 TO 25% OF SURFACE 

02 % % % DECAY 

06 % % % CHECKSUM 

% % % 

In cases when an inspection covers multiple lots applying different grades to each lot, it is 

permissible to skip a space between lots and re-designate the degree of restrictive tolerances by 

entering the correct heading in the applicable column (see example certificate numbers 6, 30, and 

37). 

Example: Lot A: Apples based on U S. Extra Fancy Grade 

Lot B: Oranges (FL) based on U.S. No. 1 Grade 

L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM 

OFFSIZE/DEFECTS 

A. 05 % 02 % 01 % BRUISING 

00 % 00 % 00 % DECAY 

05 % 02 % 01 % CHECKSUM 

% % % 

B. DAM % S.DAM % VSD % 

07 % 04 % 02 % SKIN BREAKDOWN (4 TO 10%) 

03 % 03 % 03 % DECAY (0 to 7%), EARLY STAGES. 

10 % 07 % 05 % CHECKSUM 

% % % 

Tip: Range decay 

since range exceeds 

container tolerance. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The general policy is that factors which affect grade are reported in the “AVERAGE DEFECTS” 

and “OFFSIZE/DEFECTS” sections of the certificate. Quality and condition factors which do 

not affect grade are reported in the “OTHER” or “REMARKS” sections. 

A. Allowances 

There are a few special situations which do not follow the rules as outlined above. 

These include allowances such as sprouting on potatoes and staining on onions, 

which are not scored on the basis of individual specimens, but rather on whether 

or not the lot as a whole is damaged. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 31 of 112 

1. Sprouts on Potatoes 

Sprouts on potatoes affects the U.S. No.1 grade when more than 5% of the 

potatoes have sprouts over 1/2 inch in length or clusters of sprouts 

materially affecting the appearance of the potato. Therefore, when the lot 

is damaged by sprouts (more than 5%), report the percentage of all sprouts 

over 1/2 inch in length or clusters materially affecting the appearance in 

the “AVERAGE DEFECTS” column (see example certificate number 4). 

Examples: 

L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM 

OFFSIZE/DEFECTS 

02 % 00 % % QUALITY – OLD CUTS 

06 % 02 % % SPROUTS OVER 1/2 INCH IN LENGTH (2 TO 10%) 

02 % 00 % % INTERNAL BLACK SPOTS 

00 % 00 % % SOFT ROT 

10 % 02 % % CHECKSUM 

% % % 

GRADE: FAILS TO GRADE U.S. NO. 1 ACCOUNT CONDITION (SPROUTS). 

If scorable sprouts do not exceed the 5% allowance, do not report 

percentages unless requested by the applicant. When requested by the 

applicant, report the percentages in the “OTHER” section as follows: 

L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM 

OFFSIZE/DEFECTS OTHER 

02 % 00 % QUALITY – OLD CUTS 0 TO 8%, AVERAGE 4% 

02 % 00 % % INTERNAL BLACK SPOTS SPROUTS OVER 1/2 INCH IN 

02 % 02 % % SOFT ROT, EARLY STAGES LENGTH, NOT AFFECTING GRADE, 

06 % 02 % % CHECKSUM PERCENTAGES REPORTED AT 

% % % APPLICANT’S REQUEST. 

GRADE: U.S. NO. 1 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 32 of 112 

Even when sprouts are not scorable or do not exceed the allowance, 

describe them in general terms in the “OTHER” section (see example 

below). 

OTHER 

MOST SAMPLES SHOW SPROUTS 

RANGING FROM BARELY VISIBLE 

TO 1/2 INCH IN LENGTH, SOME 

SAMPLES SHOW NONE, NOT 

AFFECTING GRADE. 

2. Staining on Onions 

Whenever a lot of onions is damaged by staining, report the percentage of 

appreciably stained (or worse) onions in the “AVERAGE DEFECTS” 

column and include the percentage of badly stained onions in the serious 

damage column (do not report the percentage of slightly stained onions). 

When staining is present, but not to the extent that the lot is damaged, do 

not mention staining in the “AVERAGE DEFECTS” column or the 

“OFFSIZE/DEFECTS” section of the certificate, but rather report it in a 

narrative in the “OTHER” section of the certificate (see example 

certificate number 5). 

Apply the same policy as outlined above for sprouting and staining to 

other factors which are scored on a lot basis and for which an additional 

allowance is made before the lot is considered damaged. 

B. Reporting Bitter Pit and Jonathan Spot on Apples 

The U.S. Standards for Apples provide in the U.S. Extra Fancy, U.S. Fancy, and 

U.S. No. 1 grades that the apples be free from Bitter Pit and Jonathan Spot. The 

U.S. Utility grade provides that the apples be free from serious damage by these 

defects. There is no definition in the standards for damage by either of those 

factors, but there is a restricted tolerance for serious damage in the top three 

grades. When certifying apples based on the U.S. Extra Fancy grade, enter the 

percentage of Bitter Pit or Jonathan Spot in the “AVERAGE DEFECTS” column 

and in the adjacent “DAMAGE” column. Even though, the apples are not 

technically damaged and there is no restricted tolerance for damage, they are 

defects of the U.S. Fancy and U.S. No. 1 grades as well as the U.S. Extra Fancy 

grade. In the third “SERIOUS DAMAGE” column, enter only the percentage of 

apples exceeding the definition of serious damage in the standards (see the 

following example and example certificate number 6). 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 33 of 112 

Example: Lot A is U.S. Extra Fancy and Lot B is U.S. Fancy. 

L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM 

OFFSIZE/DEFECTS 

A. 12 % 12 % 05 % BITTERPIT (8 TO 20%) 

00 % 00 % 00 % DECAY 

12 % 12 % 05 % CHECKSUM 

% % % 

B. DAM % S.DAM % % 

10 % 06 % % BITTERPIT (4 TO 18%) 

00 % 00 % % DECAY 

10 % 06 % % CHECKSUM 

% % % 

C. Condition Standards for Export (Apples) 

When an inspection is requested to determine compliance with the U.S. Condition 

Standards for Export, report the percentages of defects which are scorable against 

the “Condition Standards for Export” in the “OTHER” or unused space in the 

“OFFSIZE/DEFECTS” sections. The “AVERAGE DEFECTS” columns will 

show the percentages of defects for the grade standards, not the percentage of 

defects of the Condition Standards for Export. 

Examples: 

L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM OFFSIZE/DEFECTS 

02 % 00 % % QUALITY – LIMB RUBS 

03 % 02 % % BRUISING 

02 % 00 % % STORAGE SCAB 

01 % 01 % % BITTER PIT 

01 % 01 % % DECAY, EARLY STAGES 

09 % 04 % % CHECKSUM 

% % % 

% % % CONDITION STANDARDS FOR EXPORT SCORABLE DEFECTS 

% % % FIRM RIPE: 20% 

% % % STORAGE SCAB: 2% 

% % % BITTER PIT: 1% 

% % % DECAY: 1% 

Tip: Cannot have more than 

5% further advanced in 

maturity than firm ripe. 

GRADE: U.S. NO. 1. FAILS TO MEET CONDITION STANDARDS FOR EXPORT ACCOUNT FIRMNESS. 

REMARKS: CONDITION STANDARDS FOR EXPORT REPORTED AT APPLICANT’S REQUEST. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 34 of 112 

D. Certifying Combination Grades 

When certifying apples on a Combination U.S. Extra Fancy and U.S. Fancy 

grade, enter all U.S. Extra Fancy grade defects in the first “AVERAGE 

DEFECTS” column, all U.S. Fancy grade defects in the second “DAMAGE” 

column, and all serious damage defects in the third column. Apply the same 

policy when certifying apples on any other combination grade or when certifying 

other commodities to combination grades (see example certificate number 6). 

E. Certifying Condition of Pre-cut and Salad Products 

When certifying these types of products such as shredded lettuce, tossed salad 

mixes, cole slaw mixes, etc., enter only the total defects in the “AVERAGE 

DEFECTS” column. Report range(s) and average(s) of pieces in the 

“OFFSIZE/DEFECTS” section (see example certificate number 7). 

F. Terms Not to Use When No Established U.S. Grade 

When there are no established U.S. Standards for a commodity, do not use the 

terms “Grade,” “Defects,” “Injury,” “Damage,” “Serious Damage,” or “Very 

Serious Damage.” Do not use descriptive terms such as “materially” or “seriously 

affecting appearance,” as these are generally used in the general definitions of 

damage and serious damage. Describe the objectionable factors in terms of color, 

area affected, and depth, etc. (see example certificate numbers 3 and 8). 

G. Checksum 

The last entry in the “AVERAGE DEFECTS” columns for each lot is the 

checksum. The checksum does not represent the total defects in the lot and is 

never used for determining percentage of No. 1 quality or whether or not a lot 

grades or fails to grade. The checksum is simply a total of the numbers in the 

column. When all applicable defects/factors, such as tops and roots, external and 

internal, offsize, etc., are totaled, it is possible and permissible that the checksum 

may exceed 100. 

NOTE: A checksum may or may not be necessary when certifying certain types 

of nuts, which require percentages to be reported to one or two decimal places 

(i.e. tenths and hundredths) (see example certificate numbers 19 and 20). When 

reporting percentages to tenths or hundredths of a percent, it will be necessary to 

calculate (but not report) the percentages to an additional decimal place to account 

for rounding. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 35 of 112 

When percentages on the notesheet or the “CHECKSUM” line on the certificate 

results in a whole number and a fraction, the following rules apply: 

• When the fraction is .49% or less, round down the percentage to the next 

lower whole number, except when reporting decay or soft rot. 

0.49% will not be reported (except for decay or soft rot) 

1.49% will be reported as “1%” 

10.37% will be reported as “10%” 

• When the fraction is .50% or more, round up the percentage to the next 

higher whole number, except when reporting decay or soft rot. 

0.50% will be reported as “1%” (except for decay or soft rot) 

1.53% will be reported as “2%” 

10.68% will be reported as “11%” 

• When the average for decay or soft rot is less than 1%, use the following 

numerical symbols: 

-1 = Less than 1% (if average is 0.51% to 0.99%) 

1/2 = one half of 1% (if average is 0.50%) 

-1/2 = Less than one half of 1% (if average is 0.49% or lower) 

00 = No decay or soft rot 

• When the lot or defect average is less than 1/2 of 1% in excess of the 

tolerance, drop the fraction in excess of the tolerance. 

Tolerance is 10%. Lot averages 10.3%. Report “10%.” 

Tolerance is 2%. Defect averages 2.4%. Report “2%.” 

TIP: If decay is applied against a tolerance other than the restricted tolerance for 

decay, peppers for example (stem decay is applied against the 5% serious damage 

tolerance), then do not report in fractions when less than one percent. Instead, 

round up to 1% when .50% or more and round down to zero if .49% or less. 

Offsize/Defects 

Use this section for identifying the Offsize/Defects by name or description and, when necessary, 

to show ranges. If more room is needed for descriptions, report in the “OTHER” section. 

The proper line-by-line sequence to follow when reporting Offsize/Defects is as follows: 

• Size (report here only when lot fails to meet size requirements or when applicant requests 

percentage of U.S. No. 1 quality) 
 

 

 

SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 36 of 112 

• Quality (permanent defects) 

• Condition 

• Decay/Soft Rot 

• Checksum 

Follow the policy below for reporting ranges: 

• Must show ranges when any lot or container tolerance, including restricted tolerances, is 

exceeded, or if any average exceeds 5%. 

• Report ranges in this section, in parenthesis, immediately to the right of the 

name/description of the defect. 

• When the defect is absent in at least 1 sample, report the range in the 

“OFFSIZE/DEFECTS” section as “0” to whatever the maximum number or percentage 

may be. If the applicant requests a further breakdown of ranges, report this in the 

“OTHER” section. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 37 of 112 

Example: 

L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM 

OFFSIZE/DEFECTS 

A. 06 % 00 % % QUALITY – BROKEN MIDRIBS (0 TO 8%) 

12 % 04 % % TIPBURN (0 TO 29%) 

10 % 05 % % RUSSET SPOTTING (0 TO 33%) 

04 % 04 % % DECAY (0 TO 8%), MOSTLY EARLY, SOME ADVANCED STAGES 

32 % 13 % % CHECKSUM 

% % % 

Description of decay may also be entered in the “OTHER” section. 

Example: 

L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM 

OFFSIZE/DEFECTS OTHER 

A. 06 % 00 % % QUALITY – BROKEN MIDRIBS (0 TO 8%) LOT A: DECAY IS MOSTLY EARLY, 

12 % 04 % % TIPBURN (0 TO 29%) SOME ADVANCED STAGES. 

10 % 05 % % RUSSET SPOTTING (0 TO 33%) 

04 % 04 % % DECAY (0 TO 8%) 

32 % 13 % % CHECKSUM 

% % % 

NOTE: The practice of reporting ranges on certain commodities in number of fruit or melons, 

some of which were followed by the percentages in parenthesis, is discontinued, except at 

applicant’s request. Report all ranges in percentages (see section on Number of Fruit 

Examined/Defective Fruit). 

Do not report ranges on bulk loads except when set sample sizes are specified by the standards or 

when requested by the applicant. Only one defect is allowed for each line except when grouping 

quality defects (see examples listed in the Quality section). Allow enough room on the line to 

include the defect name and the range if needed. 

Show the percentages of size, quality, and condition defect/factors using the following 

guidelines: 

A. Offsize 

Size is only determined and reported when size is part of grade (exception: field 

grown tomatoes) or when requested by the applicant. When size is determined, 

report the percentage of offsize in the “OFFSIZE/DEFECTS” section when the lot 

fails to meet size requirements. Report percentages in the first column only. 
SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 38 of 112 

For example: When undersize is exceeded in a lot of jumbo onions: 

L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM 

OFFSIZE/DEFECTS OTHER 

A. 17 % 00 % % UNDER 3 INCHES IN DIAMETER (8 TO 30%) 2-1/2 TO 4, MOSTLY 3 to 3-3/4 

01 % 00 % % QUALITY - CUTS INCHES IN DIAMETER. 

02 % 00 % % BLACK MOLD BETWEEN SCALES 

00 % 00 % % DECAY 

20 % 00 % % CHECKSUM 

When size requirements are met, do not report offsize in the “AVERAGE 

DEFECTS” and “OFFSIZE/DEFECTS” sections (see exception below). Instead, 

report a short narrative such as “Meets size as Marked” (e.g. potatoes, tomatoes) 

or “Undersize within tolerance” in the “OTHER” section. 

For example: When undersize is not exceeded in a lot of jumbo onions: 

L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM 

OFFSIZE/DEFECTS OTHER 

A. 01 % 00 % % QUALITY – CUTS 2-3/4 TO 4, MOSTLY 3 TO 4 

02 % 00 % % BLACK MOLD BETWEEN SCALES INCHES IN DIAMETER. 

00 % 00 % % DECAY UNDERSIZE WITHIN TOLERANCE. 

03 % 00 % % CHECKSUM 

% % % 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NOTE: An exception to the rule is when the applicant requests the percentage of 

U.S. No. 1 quality. Offsize is included in the percentage of U.S. No. 1 quality 

whenever the standards state that size is part of grade. In such a case, enter the 

percentage of offsize in the “AVERAGE DEFECTS” column. 

When size requirements are met, the percentage of offsize may be reported in the 

“OTHER” section at applicant’s request. 

Example: 

OTHER 

2-3/4 TO 4, MOSTLY 3 TO 4 

INCHES IN DIAMETER. UNDERSIZE 

RANGES 0 TO 8%, AVERAGE 5%; 

NOT AFFECTING GRADE, REPORTED 

AT APPLICANT’S REQUEST. 
SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 39 of 112 

B. Quality 

Show average percentage of defects at all times. Combine all quality defects into 

one average, except on commodities which have separate tolerances/allowances 

for different types of quality defects. Such commodities are potatoes with 

separate tolerances for internal and external defects, Florida citrus with separate 

tolerances for discoloration and other defects, and bunched commodities with 

separate tolerances for defects of roots and tops (see example certificate number 

9). List the quality defects in descending order of prominence, most prominent to 

least prominent. 

For example: Sweet peppers have an allowance of 10% for off-colored peppers 

(peppers not showing any amount of a specified color, e.g. green peppers in a red 

lot). Since the lot below shows 11% for off-colored peppers, the lot fails to grade. 

Therefore, the off-colored peppers are separated out from the other quality 

defects. 

Example: 

L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM 

OFFSIZE/DEFECTS 

11 % 00 % % QUALITY – GREEN PEPPERS IN A RED LOT (4 TO 25%) 

04 % 02 % % QUALITY – SCARS, PULLED STEMS 

00 % 00 % % DECAY 

15 % 02 % % CHECKSUM 

% % % 

NOTE: Do not combine an allowance with other quality defects. Always report 

an allowance on a separate line. When more than one allowance, report each on a 

separate line as shown in the following onion example. 

L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM 

OFFSIZE/DEFECTS 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

36 % 00 % % QUALITY – EXCESSIVE TOPS (20 TO 45%) 

25 % 10 % % QUALITY – APPRECIABLY STAINED (14 TO 40%) 

02 % 00 % % QUALITY – CUTS 

00 % 00 % % DECAY 

63 % 10 % % CHECKSUM 

When an allowance is not exceeded, it may be reported in percentages or in 

general terms at applicant’s request to give a clearer picture of the lot. When 

requested by the applicant, report them in the “OTHER” section as not affecting 

grade as shown in the following pepper examples. 
SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 40 of 112 

Examples: 

L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM 

OFFSIZE/DEFECTS OTHER 

A. 04 % 02 % % QUALITY – SCARS, PULLED STEMS 3 TO 14 %, AVERAGE 8% GREEN 

00 % 00 % % DECAY PEPPERS IN A RED LOT, NOT 

04 % 02 % % CHECKSUM AFFECTING GRADE, REPORTED AT 

% % % APPLICANT’S REQUEST. 

OTHER 

MOST SAMPLES SHOW FEW TO SOME 

GREEN PEPPERS IN A RED LOT. 

MANY SAMPLES SHOW NONE, NOT 

AFFECTING GRADE. REPORTED AT 

APPLICANT’S REQUEST. 

C. Condition 

Show average percentage of each defect at all times. Report all condition defects 

individually and in descending order of prominence (see tomato exception 

example below), with “Decay” or “Soft Rot” always reported as the last defect. 

L 

O 

T 

Including Including AVERAGE DAMAGE SER. DAM. DEFECTS SER. DAM V.S. DAM 

OFFSIZE/DEFECTS 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

27 % 00 % 00 % ABNORMAL COLORING (17 TO 35%) 

15 % 05 % 00 % BRUISING (12 TO 20%) 

12 % 08 % 03 % SKIN CHECKS (7 TO 17%) Tip: In tomatoes, 

03 % 02 % 00 % SUNKEN DISCOLORED AREAS (0 TO 8%) report soft just 

04 % 04 % 04 % SOFT before decay. 

06 % 06 % 06 % DECAY (0 TO 11%), ADVANCED STAGES 

67 % 25 % 13 % CHECKSUM 

% % % 

Always make an entry for Decay or Soft Rot as applicable, even when the 

percentage is 00. See the following cabbage example. 

L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM 

OFFSIZE/DEFECTS 

30 % 30 % % FRESH BURST HEADS (14 TO 40%) 

15 % 08 % % WORM INJURY/LIVE WORMS (10 TO 20%) 

10 % 08 % % NUMEROUS BLACK SUNKEN DISCOLORED AREAS (2 TO 18%) 

00 % 00 % % SOFT ROT 

55 % 46 % % CHECKSUM 

% % % 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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D. Restricting to Individual Factors of Quality or Condition 

Inspections may be restricted to any individual factor(s), but only when requested 

by the applicant. This includes any factor of condition and quality (internal or 

external), as well as those that do not affect the grade, such as multiple hearts in 

onions or ambering on grapes, etc. Inspections may also be restricted to factors 

other than condition and quality such as freezing only, temperature only, weight 

only, etc. When restricted to any individual factor(s), report the fact under 

“REMARKS” (see Remarks section). 

Examples: 

REMARKS: LOT A: RESTRICTED TO FREEZING ONLY AT APPLICANT’S REQUEST. 

LOT C: RESTRICTED TO TEMPERATURE ONLY AT APPLICANT’S REQUEST. 

REMARKS: INSPECTION RESTRICTED TO MISSHAPEN ONLY AT APPLICANT’S REQUEST. 

In addition, for inspections restricted to condition only, report in “REMARKS” 

that the lot is restricted to condition only at applicant request. 

Example: 

REMARKS: LOTS B AND C: RESTRICTED TO CONDITION ONLY AT APPLICANT’S REQUEST. 

E. Describing Decay or Soft Rot 

Report decay and soft rot according to their stages of advancement in general 

terms when the applicable tolerance is exceeded. Do not report the type of decay 

or soft rot on the notesheet or certificate. The stages of decay/soft rot are “early,” 

“moderate,” and “advanced.” Do not use any terms other than those below, such 

as “various stages” or “all stages.” 

• Early: Approximately 10% or less of the surface or specimen affected. 

• Moderate: Approximately 11 to 25% of the surface or specimen affected. 

• Advanced: Approximately 26% or more of the surface or specimen 

affected. 
SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 42 of 112 

On certain commodities there are different tolerances for decay/soft rot depending 

on the part of the commodity that is affected. For example, decayed stems on 

peppers are scored against the serious damage tolerance rather than the decay 

tolerance reserved for walls and calyxes. On lettuce and carrots, decay of 

wrapper leaves or leaf stems is scored against the serious damage tolerance 

instead of the decay/soft rot tolerance used for heads or roots. To avoid 

misunderstanding on such commodities, report the decay/soft rot that is scored 

against a different tolerance other than the decay/soft rot tolerance on a separate 

line as shown in the following example. 

Example: Lot A is peppers, Lot B is carrots, and Lot C is lettuce. 

OFFSIZE/DE OFFSIZE/DE 

% DECAY AFFECTING STEMS % DECAY AFFECTING STEMS 

% DECAY % DECAY AFFECTING WALLS & CALYXES 

% CHECKSUM % CHECKSUM 

% % 

% SOFT ROT – TOPS % SOFT ROT – TOPS 

% SOFT ROT % SOFT ROT – ROOTS 

% CHECKSUM % CHECKSUM 

% % 

% DECAYED WRAPPER LEAVES % DECAYED WRAPPER LEAVES 

% DECAY % DECAYED HEAD LEAVES 

% CHECKSUM % CHECKSUM 

% % 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

L 

O 

T 

A. 

B. 

C. 

The left and right examples above show two methods for reporting decay/soft rot. 

In the left example, the decay/soft rot scored against a tolerance that differs from 

the decay/soft rot tolerance is notated. Therefore, it is not necessary to name the 

decay/soft rot scored against the restrictive tolerance for decay/soft rot. For 

example, on peppers decayed stems are scored against the 5% serious damage 

tolerance. Once the stem decay is reported, it is understood that the remaining 

decay is the one scored against the 2% decay tolerance, which is reserved for 

walls and calyxes. However, it is not incorrect to name both as shown in the 

example on the right. Lots A, B, and C also show different ways the entry may be 

worded. 

When there is no decay/soft rot scored against a tolerance that differs from the 

decay/soft rot tolerance, do not report. However, decay/soft rot that is scored 

against the decay/soft rot tolerance is always reported even if there is none. 

In the following pepper example, there is decay affecting stems in Lot A; 

therefore, it is reported. Even though there is no decay affecting walls and 

calyxes in Lot A, it is also reported. Lot B does not have any decay affecting 
SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 43 of 112 

stems; therefore, do not report. Again, there is no decay affecting walls and 

calyxes in Lot B, but still report. 

Example: 

L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM 

OFFSIZE/DEFECTS 

A. 01 % 01 % % DECAY AFFECTING STEMS 

00 % 00 % % DECAY 

01 % 01 % % CHECKSUM 

% % % 

B. 06 % 00 % % SHRIVELING (0 TO 14%) 

00 % 00 % % DECAY 

06 % 00 % % CHECKSUM 

% % % 

NOTE: The area affected by decay/soft rot (stems, tips, butts, etc.) may be further 

noted to give a clearer picture, as is shown in the following pepper and cabbage 

examples. The entry may be reported in the “OFFSIZE/DEFECTS” or “OTHER” 

sections, depending on how much space is needed. 

Examples: 

L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM 

OFFSIZE/DEFECTS 

03 % 03 % % DECAY AFFECTING WALLS (0 TO 7%), EARLY STAGES 

03 % 03 % % CHECKSUM 

% % % 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

OTHER 

SOFT ROT AFFECTS BUTTS AND 

HEAD LEAVES, MOSTLY EARLY 

STAGES, SOME MODERATE. 

F. Checksum 

The term “Checksum” is always the last entry of the lot. It is the total of all 

percentages shown in each column for the lot. The "Checksum” validates that the 

percentages reported on the certificate have not been altered after issuance (see 

Checksum under Average Defects Columns heading). 

Other 

Use this area for reporting non-defective factors of size, quality, or condition. These nondefective factors include size ranges, defect and decay descriptions, and other factors which do 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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not affect grade but customarily have been reported on certificates because of their importance to 

applicants. 

Report factors which include color of tomatoes, ripeness of fruit, ground color of fruit, sprouting 

of potatoes, yellowing of celery tops, condition of stems on grapes, and various other 

explanations. Other factors such as location of bruising, ambering of grapes, and color of 

calyxes on peas (except black color) may also be reported in this section using general quantity 

terms, but only when you deem them important or when requested by the applicant. 

Left Example: Lot A: Apples, Lot B: Cantaloups, Lot C: Celery, Lot D: Potatoes. 

Right Example: Lot A: Tomatoes, Lot B: Grapes, Lot C: Light Skinned Sweet Cherry. 

OTHER 

LOT A: MOST FIRM, SOME FIRM RIPE, 

FEW RIPE. 

LOT B: MOST FIRM, MANY RIPE AND 

FIRM. GROUND COLOR MOSTLY 

LIGHT GREEN, SOME TURNING, 

SOME YELLOW. 

LOT C: MOST TOPS GREEN COLOR, 

MANY TURNING YELLOW TO YELLOW. 

LOT D: ALL SAMPLES SHOW VISIBLE 

SPROUTS RANGING FROM BARELY 

VISIBLE TO 1/4 INCH IN LENGTH, NOT 

AFFECTING GRADE. 

OTHER 

LOT A: AVERAGE APPROXIMATELY 

50% GREEN AND BREAKERS, 25% 

TURNING AND PINK, 25% LIGHT RED 

AND RED COLOR. 

LOT B: MOST SAMPLES SHOW SOME 

TO MANY BERRIES TURNING AMBER 

TO AMBER COLOR, MANY SHOW NO 

AMBERING, NOT AFFECTING GRADE 

AND REPORTED AT APPLICANT’S 

REQUEST. 

LOT C: GENERALLY SAMPLES SHOW 

SOME TO MANY CHERRIES HAVING 

PINK TO RED BLUSH. 

The applicant may request you to report a quality factor on a condition only inspection. 

Examples would be ambering of grapes or blush on light skinned varieties of sweet cherries. 

Report the quality factor in the “OTHER” section and charge the applicant for a grade and 

condition inspection on that lot. 

Except for the factors mentioned previously and as provided by individual commodity 

instructions, avoid mentioning factors that do not affect grade without a specific request. If 

requested to report such factors, report with the statement “not affecting grade and reported at 

applicant's request.” 

When this section of the certificate contains information on more than one lot, precede the 

information by the letter of the lot(s) which it identifies. 

The unused portions of the “OFFSIZE/DEFECTS” and “OTHER” sections may be combined to 

accommodate narrative descriptions. The narratives can cross the dotted line from one section to 

another, as shown in the following example. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

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% ALL CARTONS IN TOP LAYER SHOW ALL CONTENTS BEING FROZEN. ALL CARTONS IN SECOND LAYER FROM THE TOP, 

% MOST CARTONS ADJACENT TO TRAILER SIDE WALLS, AND ALL CARTONS ADJACENT TO REAR TRAILER DOORS SHOW 

% SOME TO ALL OF CONTENTS ADJACENT TO CARTON TOP, SIDE(S), AND/OR BOTTOM BEING FROZEN. FREEZING 

PENETRATES FROM 2 INCHES TO ENTIRE CONTENTS, AND IS SO LOCATED AS TO SHOW THAT IT OCCURRED ON THE 

% ABOVE MENTIONED TRAILER. 

Examples of narratives include the following: 

• Freezing statements (see example certificate numbers 10, 11, and 12) 

• Condition of load and container reports (see example certificate number 13) 

• Net weight inspections (see example certificate number 14) 

• Pack and pack ice statements (see example certificate 15) 

• Additional temperatures recorded, with the location (see example certificate number 16) 

• Any other statements that may have a bearing on the inspection results may also be 

described in the unused portions of the “OFFSIZE/DEFECTS” and “OTHER” sections. 

A. Number of Fruit Examined/Defective Fruit 

On commodities, such as Texas citrus, in which the tolerances are based on the 

number of fruit affected, do not report the number of fruit examined or the total 

number of defective fruit unless such information is specifically requested by the 

applicant. If such information is requested, show the total fruit examined in the 

“OTHER” section and the defective fruit in a separate column at the far right of 

the “OFFSIZE/DEFECTS” section. Also, state in “REMARKS” the examined 

and defective fruit was reported at applicant’s request as shown in the following 

Texas grapefruit example. 

AVERAGE Including Including 

OFFSIZE/DEFECTS DEFECTS DAMAGE SER. DAM. 

SER. DAM V.S. DAM 

TOTAL 

FRUIT OTHER 

06 % 00 % 00 % QUALITY – CAKED MELANOSE, SCARS (0 TO 12%) 16 EXAMINED 264 FRUIT (8 – 33 COUNT 

01 % 00 % 00 % SKIN BREAKDOWN 3 SAMPLES) 

03 % 03 % 03 % DECAY (0 TO 15%) 8 DECAY: MOSTLY MODERATE, SOME 

10 % ADVANCED STAGES. 

% 

03 % 

% 

03 % 

% 

CHECKSUM 

REMARKS: EXAMINED AND DEFECTIVE FRUIT REPORTED AT APPLICANT’S REQUEST. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Grade 

Report under this heading a statement showing whether or not the lot inspected meets the 

requirements to the grade or other specifications on which the inspection was based. When there 

is more than one grade statement, precede each statement by the letter of the applicable lot(s). 

When there are no U.S. grade standards for the product, and a quality and condition inspection is 

performed, enter the words “No established U.S. Grade” next to the applicable lot heading. 

Example: 

GRADE: LOTS A AND B: NO ESTABLISHED U.S. GRADE. 

If the lot(s) passes, write what grade or specification it passes after the letter of the lot(s) which it 

identifies. When there is only one lot, it is not necessary to write “Lot A” before the grade 

statement. 

Examples: 

GRADE: LOT A: U.S. EXTRA FANCY: LOT B: U.S. NO. 1 SIZE A, 2 INCH OR 4 OUNCE MINIMUM; 

LOT C: MEETS MARKED WEIGHT. LOT D: U.S. NO. 1 JUMBO. 

GRADE: ALL LOTS: U.S. FANCY. 

GRADE: U.S. NO. 1, SIZE 60, 70, 80, 90, AND 100 RESPECTIVELY. 

GRADE: LOTS A AND C: U.S. NO. 1, CREAMERS; LOT B: U.S. NO. 2, 10 OUNCE MINIMUM; 

LOT D: U.S. NO. 1 RED. 

Report lots failing to grade due to quality defects on the certificate as: “Fails to grade account 

quality.” This statement applies even when a lot contains condition defects that are also in 

excess of the tolerance. Do not mention condition defects under the “GRADE” heading when a 

lot fails to grade account quality. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Effective Date: March 2015 Page 47 of 112 

Example: 

GRADE: LOT A: FAILS TO GRADE U.S. NO. 1 ACCOUNT QUALITY; 

LOT B: FAILS TO GRADE U.S. NO. 1 ACCOUNT QUALITY (SOLUBLE SOLIDS). 

Some standards have separate classes or types of quality defects with separate tolerances or 

allowances. Whenever such lots fail to grade account quality, have the grade statement clearly 

indicate when they fail account of one of these other tolerances or allowances. 

Example: Lot A: Sweet Peppers, Lot B: Onions 

GRADE: LOT A: FAILS TO GRADE U.S. FANCY RED ACCOUNT QUALITY (GREEN PEPPERS IN A RED LOT); 

LOT B: FAILS TO GRADE U.S. NO. 1 JUMBO ACCOUNT QUALITY (STAINING). 

Example: Lot A: Florida Oranges, Lot B: Celery 

GRADE: LOT A: FAILS TO GRADE U.S. FANCY ACCOUNT QUALITY (EXCESSIVE DISCOLORATION); 

LOT B: FAILS TO GRADE U.S. NO. 1 ACCOUNT QUALITY (DIRT). 

When quality defects are within the tolerances but condition defects alone exceed a tolerance, or 

condition defects and quality defects combined exceed a tolerance, use the following “GRADE” 

heading: “Fails to grade __________ account condition.” 

As with quality defects, some standards have separate classes or types of condition defects with 

separate tolerances or allowances for them. Whenever such lots fail to grade account condition, 

have the grade statement for such products clearly indicate when they fail account of one of these 

other tolerances or allowances. 

Example: Lot A: Potatoes, Lot B: Onions 

GRADE: LOT A FAILS TO GRADE U.S. NO. 1, 5 OUNCE MINIMUM ACCOUNT CONDITION (VISIBLE SPROUTS). 

LOT B FAILS TO GRADE U.S. NO. 1 MEDIUM ACCOUNT CONDITION (SURFACE MOLD). 

The above type of condition grade statement does not apply for apples and pears. When 

certifying apples or pears under U.S. standards and most State standards, factors which may have 

developed after storage or in transit affect condition and not grade. This means that apples and 

pears do not “fail to grade account condition.” Therefore, state under the “GRADE” heading: 

“U.S. Fancy, decay being a factor of condition” or “U.S. Extra Fancy, bruising and bitter pit 

being factors of condition,” etc. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

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Effective Date: March 2015 Page 48 of 112 

Example: 

GRADE: U.S. EXTRA FANCY, BITTER PIT AND DECAY BEING FACTORS OF CONDITION. 

LOT B: US. NO. 1, DARK SKIN DISCOLORATION BEING A FACTOR OF CONDITION. 

Individual commodity inspection instructions give full details for writing grade statements when 

individual containers exceed the tolerance for a product. The following grade statements are 

examples of lots failing to meet container tolerances although the lot average is within tolerance. 

Examples: 

GRADE: LOT A: FAILS TO GRADE U.S. NO. 1 ACCOUNT QUALITY IN A FEW SAMPLES. 

LOT B: FAILS TO GRADE U.S. EXTRA FANCY ACCOUNT CONDITION IN SOME SAMPLES. 

GRADE: FAILS TO GRADE U.S. NO. 1 ACCOUNT OVERSIZE IN A FEW CARTONS. 

If size is part of grade, the lot may also fail when not meeting size requirements. 

Example: 

GRADE: LOT A: FAILS TO GRADE U.S. NO. 1 ACCOUNT OF UNDERSIZE. 

LOT B: FAILS TO GRADE U.S. FANCY ACCOUNT OF OFFSIZE. 

If size is not part of grade, the lot may meet or fail size requirements independently of meeting or 

failing quality and/or condition factors, as shown in the tomato example below. 

GRADE: LOT A: U.S. NO. 1. FAILS TO MEET SIZE AS MARKED. 

When there are other factors, such as marking and pack requirements that are not part of grade, 

the lot may meet or fail these requirements independently of whether or not the lot meets quality 

and/or condition factors, as shown in the tomato (Lot A) and apple (Lot B) example below. 

GRADE: LOT A: U.S. NO. 1. FAILS TO MEET MARKING REQUIREMENTS AS TO SIZE. 

LOT B: U.S. EXTRA FANCY. FAILS TO MEET PACKING REQUIREMENTS. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

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When the inspection is for condition only, either cross out the word “GRADE” or draw a line 

through the “Grade” section. 

Examples: 

GRADE: GRADE: 

or 

Remarks 

In many cases, it will not be necessary to make any statement under “REMARKS,” and if all 

points have been sufficiently covered under the various other headings of the certificate, leave 

this heading blank. If more space is needed for “REMARKS,” use any unused space in the 

“OFFSIZE/DEFECTS” and “OTHER” sections. 

Under this heading make any explanatory or qualifying statement(s) that are necessary to 

complete the certificate. Instructions and principal kinds of statements made under this heading 

may be found in the General Market Manual. 

Examples: 

REMARKS: INSPECTED DURING PROCESS OF UNLOADING. 

LOT C: RESTRICTED TO CONDITION ONLY AT APPLICANT’S REQUEST. 

REMARKS: RESTRICTED TO 4 PALLETS NEAREST REAR DOORS. 

REMARKS: LOT A: NET WEIGHT DETERMINED AND REPORTED AT APPLICANT’S REQUEST. 

LOT B: DIAMETER BASED ON 3 INCH MINIMUM AT APPLICANT’S REQUEST. 

REMARKS: INSPECTION RESTRICTED TO RANGE AND AVERAGE COUNT OF PEPPERS 

PER CARTON, ONLY AT APPLICANT’S REQUEST. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Whenever an inspection covers more than four lots from the same shipper, additional certificates 

may be written with each certificate cross-referenced to all other certificates issued on that load. 

Example: 

REMARKS: FOR REMAINDER OF LOAD, SEE CERTIFICATES T-XXXXXX-2 AND T-XXXXXX-3. 

When all lots cannot fit on one certificate, use additional certificates and cross-reference. 

Example: 

REMARKS: SEE CERTIFICATE T-XXXXXX-X FOR REMAINDER OF LOTS. 

Inspector’s Signature 

Enter your signature or the supervising inspector authorizing the results of the inspection here. 

When an additional inspector(s) has assisted in running samples during the inspection, have them 

also sign the certificate prior to issuance whenever practical. 

NOTE: Print your name by your signature if it is illegible. 

Market Office 

Enter the local duty office location (city and state). Even if the certificate and notesheets are sent 

to another office for completion, billing, or filing, the local duty office is still entered here. 

When there is no official office established at the duty location, show the office location which 

performs the billing and filing functions. 

Estimated Total 

Enter the estimated total of all charges in dollars and cents. Included charges are inspection fees, 

travel time, overtime, mileage, tolls, and any other appropriate expenses incurred during the 

performance of the inspection. For specific guidelines for determining charges, including current 

fees, refer to your immediate supervisor or a representative from the Inspection Branch’s 

Operation Section. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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APPENDIX 1: ORIGIN CODES 

UNITED STATES 

AL Alabama MT Montana 

AK Alaska NE Nebraska 

AZ Arizona NV Nevada 

AR Arkansas NH New Hampshire 

CA California NJ New Jersey 

CO Colorado NM New Mexico 

CT Connecticut NY New York 

DE Delaware NC North Carolina 

DC District of Columbia ND North Dakota 

FL Florida OH Ohio 

GA Georgia OK Oklahoma 

HI Hawaii OR Oregon 

ID Idaho PA Pennsylvania 

IL Illinois PR Puerto Rico 

IN Indiana RI Rhode Island 

IA Iowa SC South Carolina 

KS Kansas SD South Dakota 

KY Kentucky TN Tennessee 

LA Louisiana TX Texas 

ME Maine UT Utah 

MD Maryland VT Vermont 

MA Massachusetts VA Virginia 

MI Michigan WA Washington 

MN Minnesota WV West Virginia 

MS Mississippi WI Wisconsin 

MO Missouri WY Wyoming 

CANADA 

AB Alberta NS Nova Scotia 

BC British Columbia ON Ontario 

MB Manitoba PE Prince Edward Island 

NB New Brunswick QU Quebec 

NF Newfoundland SK Saskatchewan 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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REMAINDER OF THE WORLD 

AF Afghanistan GD Guadeloupe 

AG Algeria GU Guam 

AE Argentina GT Guatemala 

AU Australia HA Haiti 

BA Bahamas HO Holland - Netherlands 

BR Barbados HD Honduras 

BL Belgium - Luxembourg HK Hong Kong 

BE Belize HU Hungary 

BM Bermuda IC Iceland 

BS Bosnia II India 

BR Brazil IO Indonesia 

CN Canada IR Ireland 

CI Canary Islands IS Israel 

CE Chile IT Italy 

CH China JM Jamaica 

CL Columbia (South America) JA Japan 

CR Costa Rica JO Jordan 

HR Croatia KE Kenya 

CU Cuba KO Korea 

DN Denmark KU Kuwait 

DM Dominica LE Lebanon 

DR Dominican Republic ML Malaysia 

EQ Ecuador MX Mexico 

ET Egypt MR Morocco 

ES El Salvador NA Nicaragua 

EP Ethiopia NI Nigeria 

FJ Fiji NZ New Zealand 

FN Finland OT Origin unknown/undetermined 

FR France PK Pakistan 

GE Germany PN Panama 

GH Ghana PU Peru 

GR Greece PH Philippines 

GL Greenland PD Poland 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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REMAINDER OF THE WORLD CONTINUED 

PO Portugal TA Taiwan 

RU Russia TS Tasmania 

SA Saudi Arabia TH Thailand 

ST Scotland TO Tobago 

SE Senegal TR Trinidad 

SR Sierra Leone TI Tunisia 

SN Singapore TU Turkey 

SV Slovenia UK United Kingdom - England 

SI South Africa UR Uruguay 

SP Spain VE Venezuela 

SL Sri Lanka VN Vietnam 

SU Sudan VI Virgin Islands 

SW Sweden WS West Indies 

SZ Switzerland ZI Zimbabwe 

Note: If the country of origin is unknown or if it is not shown in this attachment, enter the code 

“OT” in the “Origin” block on the certificate. However, please notify the Inspection Branch 

(Operations) of inspection of products from any countries of origin which are not on the list for 

possible inclusion in future updates of this manual. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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APPENDIX 2: PRODUCT CODES 

Almonds ALM 

Anise, Sweet ANI 

Apples APL Red: RD, Green: GR, Yellow: YW 

Apricots APR 

Artichokes ART 

Asparagus ASP 

Avocados AVO 

Bananas BAN 

Beans BNS Lima: LI, Snap: SN 

Beets BTS Bunched: BU, Short trimmed: ST, Topped: TP 

Blackberries BKB 

Blueberries BLB 

Bok Choy BOK 

Brazil Nuts BRZ 

Broccoli BRO 

Brussels Sprouts BRU 

Cabbage CAB Danish: DH, Domestic: DC, Pointed: PT, Red: RD, 

Savoy: SY 

Cantaloups CAN 

Carrots CAR Bunched: BU, Short Trimmed: ST, Topped: TP 

Cauliflower CAU 

Celery CEL 

Cherries CHE 

Chestnuts CHN 

Christmas Trees XMT 

Coconuts COC 

Corn COR 

Cranberries CRN 

Cucumbers CUX Fresh: FR, Greenhouse: GH, Pickling: PK 

Cut Flowers OTO 

Dewberries DEW 

Eggplant EGP Mixed: MX 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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PRODUCT CODES CONTINUED 

End/Esc/Chic EEC Belgium: EN, Chicory: CH, Escarole: ES 

Figs FIG 

Filberts FIL 

Fresh Cut Vegetables OTV 

Fresh Cut Fruit OTF 

Garlic GAR Peeled: PL 

Ginger Root GIN 

Grapefruit GFT California: CA, Florida: FL, Texas: TX 

Grapes, Bunched American GRB 

Grapes, Juice GRJ 

Grapes, Muscatine? GRM 

Grapes, Table GRP 

Green Onions GON 

Greens (Beet, Broccoli, 

Collard, Dandelion, Kale, 

Mustard, Rabe, Rapini, 

Swiss Chard, Turnip) 

GRN Beet: BT, Broccoli: BR, Collard: CO, Dandelion: DA, 

Mustard: MU 

Honeydew HON 

Horseradish HOR 

Kiwifruit KIW 

Leaf Lettuce LLT Field Grown: FG, Greenhouse: GH 

Leeks LKS 

Lemons LEM 

Limes LIM 

Mangos MAN 

Mixed Lots MIX (Use only in conjunction with purpose codes DMP, FRZ, 

or OTH) 

Mixed Nuts MXN 

Mushrooms MUS 

Napa NAP 

Nectarines NEC 

Okra OKR 

Onions, BGG ONB Brown: BR, Red: RD, White: WH, Yellow: YW 

Onions, Northern ONN Brown: BR, Red: RD, White: WH, Yellow: YW 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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PRODUCT CODES CONTINUED 

Oranges ORG California: CA, Florida: FL, Texas: TX 

Other Fruits OTF 

Other Melons OTM 

Other Nuts OTN 

Other Ornamentals OTO 

Other Vegetables OTV 

Papayas PAP 

Parsley PAR 

Parsnips PNP 

Peaches PEC 

Peanuts PNT 

Pears PER Summer/Fall: SU, Winter: WI 

Peas (all types) PEA Fresh: FR, Southern: SP, Pods: PD 

Pecans PCN 

Peppers PEP Other Than Sweet: OT, Sweet: SW 

Persimmons PSM 

Pineapples PIN 

Plantains PLA 

Plums PLU 

Pomegranates POM 

Potatoes POT Long White: LW, Mixed: MX, Other: OT, Round Red: 

RR, Round White: RW, Russets: RU 

Potatoes, Seed POS 

Prunes PRU 

Pumpkins PUM 

Radishes RAD Bunched: BU, Topped: TP 

Raspberries RAS 

Rhubarb RHU 

Romaine ROM 

Rutabagas RUT 

Salad Mix SMX 

Shallots SHA 

Spinach SPI Bunched: BU, Leaves: LV, Plants: PL 
 

 

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PRODUCT CODES CONTINUED 

Squash SQU Summer: SU, Winter: WI 

Strawberries STR 

Sweetpotatoes SPO 

Tangelos TAN 

Tangerines TGR Florida: FL, Other: OT 

Tomatoes TOM Fresh: FR, Greenhouse: GH, On the Vine: TV, Other 

(Cherry, Grape, Plum): OT 

Turnips TUR Bunched: BU, Short Trimmed: ST, Topped: TP 

Walnuts WAL 

Watermelons WAT 
 

SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 58 of 112 

APPENDIX 3: DEFECT CODES (SORTED BY DESCRIPTION) 

A 

SOF Abnormally Soft & Watery 

ABC Abnormal Coloring 

ACX Air Cracks 

ASK Alligator Skin 

ALS Almeria Spot 

ALT Alternaria Leaf Spot 

ALT Alternaria Tuber Rot 

CHE Ammonia Injury 

CHE Ammoniation 

AGR Anjou Greening 

ACS Anjou Cork Spot 

ASC Anjou Scald 

ANT Anthracnose 

APH Aphis Injury 

STN Aphis Stain 

WRM Apple Maggot Injury 

ACR Apple Cedar Rust 

IMT Attached Calyxes 

ASH Attached Shallots 

AST Attached Stems 

B 

BAC Bacteria 

BAB Bacterial Blight 

BLS Bacterial Leaf Spot 

BRR Bacterial Ring Rot 

BAS Bacterial Spot 

BRU Badly Bruised 

BMU Badly Bruised/Mushy Berries 

MIS Badly Deformed 

SPR Badly Spread 

INS Berry Moth 

BIR Bird Damage 

BIR Bird Injury 

BIR Bird Pecks 

BIP Bitter Pit 

BIT Bitterness 

DCC Black Calyxes 

BLE Black End 

BKS Black Leaf Spot 

MIL Black Mildew 

BMB Black Mold Beneath Outer 

Scales 

BRT Black Rot 

BLH Blackheart 

BLG Blackleg Tuber Rot 

COL Blanching 

COL Bleached Leaves 

BLI Blight 

BLI Blighted Buds 

INS Blister Mite Injury 

BEC Blossom End Clearing 

BER Blossom End Rot 

BLO Blotch 

MIS Bottlenecks 

BRO Broken 

BOB Broken Beans 

BRO Broken Ends 

BRO Broken Leaves 

BMR Broken Midribs 

BRO Broken or Bruised Leaves 

BRO Broken or Crushed 

BRS Broken Stalks 
 

SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 59 of 112 

BSK Broken Skin 

BRO Broken Tips 

BRO Broken, Bruised, Discolored 

Leaves 

BSP Brooks’ Spot 

DIS Brown Discoloration 

IDS Brown Heart 

BRS Brown Stain 

BNS Brown Stem 

BNT Brown Tips 

BRL Bruised Leaves 

BRL Bruised Watersoaked Leaves 

BRU Bruises 

BRU Bruising 

BUC Buckskin 

BUB Bud Burn 

WRM Budworm Injury 

BST Burst 

BST Burst Heads 

C 

CAM Caked Melanose 

IMT Calyx Attached 

CAI Calyx Injury 

IMT Calyx Not Attached 

CAT Catfaces 

CER Cedar Rust 

CCS Cercospora Spot 

CHA Chafing 

SUM Checksum (not a defect) 

CHI Chilling Injury 

CEN Clipped Ends 

IMT Clipping 

IMT Closely Trimmed Necks 

CLS Cloudy Spot 

CLR Cluster Rings 

CLU Clusters 

CLL Clusters of Leaves 

OVM Coarse Stalks 

OVM Coarse Stems 

CHI Cold Damage 

COS Common Scald 

COM Compact 

CSP Contact Spot 

CAS Controlled Atmosphere Storage 

Injury 

COR Cores 

CRK Cork 

CRK Cork Spot 

COC Cottony Cork 

CRB Cracked Butts 

CFS Cracked Fleshy Scales 

BRO Cracked or Broken 

SCR Cracked Scarred Branches 

CRA Cracked Skins 

CRA Cracked Stem 

CRA Cracks 

CRA Cracks, Healed/Unhealed 

CBL Crater Blotch 

CRE Creasing 

MIS Crooked Tops 

CRS Crown Slips 

CRR Crowns and Roots 

CRU Crushed 

CRU Crushed Berries 

CRU Crushed or Broken Walls 

INS Cucumber Beetle Leaves 

CUR Cured 

CUT Cuts 
SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 60 of 112 

D 

DSD Dark skin Discoloration 

BBL Dead, Watersoaked, Bruised 

Leaves 

DEK Decay 

JDK Decayed Jacket Leaves 

DKS Decayed Leaf Stem 

DKS Decayed Stems 

DKS Decayed Tops 

DKW Decayed Wrapper Leaves 

ROU Decidedly Rough 

SUT Deep Sutures 

SUT Defective Sutures 

DES Delayed Sunburn 

DFM Dirt 

DFM Dirty 

DIS Discoloration 

DIS Discoloration Beneath Stems 

Scars 

DFB Discoloration Following Bruised 

Midribs 

DFB Discoloration Following 

Bruising 

DBC Discoloration of Bud Clusters 

DCR Discoloration of Roots 

DSF Discolored Spots in Flesh 

DCH Discoloration of Head Leaves 

DCW Discoloration of Wrapper Leaves 

DCU Discolored Curds 

DCJ Discolored Jacket Leaves 

DCL Discolored Leaves 

DCR Discolored Watersoaked Roots 

DCT Discolored Tops 

IDS Discolored Dry Jelly 

DSE Disease 

VAR Dissimilar Varietal 

Characteristics 

DOU Doubles 

MIL Downy Mildew 

DRI Dried 

OVM Dried Berries 

DST Dried Stems 

DSP Drought Spots 

DBS Dry and Brittle Stems 

DBL Dry Brown Leaves 

DBT Dry or Brown Tips 

OVM Dry or Hard Beans 

DRT Dry Roots 

DRR Dry Rot 

DSA Dry Sunken Areas 

DMC Dryness or Mushy Condition 

DUS Dustburn 

E 

BLI Early Blight 

ELH Elephant Hide 

EBR Enlarged Bracts 

EBU Enlarged Buds 

ENL Enlarged Lenticels 

DEL Enlarged Discolored Sunken 

Lenticels 

CHE Exanthema 

DIS Excessive Discoloration 

IMT Excessive Tops 

ROU Excessively Rough 

ROU Excessively Rough Texture 

SPI Excessively Short Spindly 

UDV Excessively Small 

STR Excessively Straggly 

EXT Excessively Tight 
SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 61 of 112 

UDV Excessively Young 

ELS Excessively Long Stems 

DIS External Discoloration 

EGS External Gum Spots 

F 

DFM Fairly Clean 

SOF Fairly Firm 

ROU Fairly Smooth 

FTS Fairly Thin Skin 

MIS Fairly Well Formed 

OVM Fibrous 

OVM Fibrous and Tough 

FFR Field Freezing 

FFR Field Frost Injury 

FLB Flabby 

SOF Flabby and Wilted 

FDA Flattened Depressed Areas 

INS Flea Beetle 

INS Flea Beetle Injury 

OVM Flower Buds 

OVM Flowering (Open) Buds 

INS Flyspeck 

FOE Folded Ends 

SCL Forbes Scale 

DFM Foreign Material 

FRZ Freezing 

FRZ Freezing Injury 

BRO Fresh Broken-off Second Growth 

CRA Fresh Cracks 

CUT Fresh Cuts 

FRU Fruit Spot 

CHE Fumigation Injury 

FTR Fusarium Tuber Rot 

OVM Fuzziness 

G 

GHS Ghost Spot 

GRA Granulation 

DFM Grass 

GRD Grass Damage 

GRR Grass Root 

IMM Green Berries 

COL Green Color (Underneath) 

WRM Green Fruit Worm Injury 

GRS Green Spots 

GRE Greening 

GPS Ground Spot 

NGR Growing or Shooting 

GCK Growth Cracks 

GUR Grub Damage 

GUP Gum Pockets 

GUS Gum Spots 

GUM Gummosis 

H 

HAI Hail Damage 

HAI Hail Injury 

HAI Hail Marks 

HAE Hard End 

HDS Hard or Dry Skin 

HAM Hayward Mark 

HEA Heat 

HEA Heat Injury 

HOL Hollow Core 

HOL Hollow Crown 

HOL Hollow Heart 

HOL Hollow Stem 

STN Honey Dew Stain 
SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 62 of 112 

HOC Horizontal Cracks (Endoxerosis) 

DSH Husk Discoloration 

CHE Hydrochloric Acid Injury 

I 

IMM Immature 

IMM Immature Shot Berries 

COL Improper Blanching 

IMT Improper Trimming 

ICB Improperly Cured Butts 

INK Indented Kernels 

IGS Ingrown Sprouts 

INS Insect Damage 

INS Insect Injury 

INS Insect Larvae or Holes 

INS Insect Stings 

INS Insects 

COL Insufficient Green Color 

IBS Internal Black Spot 

INB Internal Breakdown 

IDS Internal Brown Spot 

IDS Internal Browning 

INC Internal Cork 

IDS Internal Decline (Endoxerosis) 

IDS Internal Discoloration 

IDS Internal Evidence of Alternate 

Development 

IPS Internal Papery Scales 

IDP Internal Pink, Purple, or Red 

Discoloration 

IDS Internal Potato Necrosis 

IDS Internal Rind Spot 

IRR Irregular 

J 

JER Jelly End Rot 

JOS Jonathan Spot 

K 

KDS King David Spot 

COL Lack of Green Color 

L 

BLI Late Blight 

BLI Late Blight Rot 

BLI Late Blight Tuber Rot 

INS Leaf Hopper Damage 

SCR Leaf or Limb Rubs 

SCR Leaf Rubs 

LEA Leaf Stems 

LES Leaf Spotting 

LEA Leafy 

LEK Leaking 

VAR Leaves 

DFM Leaves and Trash 

VAR Leaves in Plants 

SCR Limb Rubs 

LIM Limp 

LSC Liquid in Seed Cavity 

LOC Loose at Capstem 

DFM Loose Skins or Chaff 

CHI Low Temperature Breakdown 

M 

IDS Mahogany Browning 

INS Mealy Bug Injury 

MEC Mechanical 

MEC Mechanical Damage 

MEC Mechanical Injury 

MEL Melanose 

MES Membranous Skin 

MIL Mildew 
SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 63 of 112 

MIL Mildew Scars 

MIL Mildewed Stems 

MIS Misshapen 

VAR Mixture of Plants and Leaves 

VAR Mixture of Plants, Clusters, 

and/or Leaves 

MOI Moisture 

MOL Mold 

MOL Mold in Seed Cavity 

MOS Moldy Stems 

SPR More Than Slightly Spread 

MOA Mosaic 

MOT Mottling 

MUB Muck Burn 

OVM Mummified 

SOF Mushy 

N 

NAS Nailhead Spot 

NEM Nematode 

IDS Net Necrosis 

NGR New Neck Growth 

NGR New Root Growth 

NGR New Roots 

NGR New Top Growth 

NQD No Quality Defects 

COL Non-designated Color 

BGT Not Bright 

DFM Not Clean 

IMT Not Closely Trimmed 

BHT Not Fairly Bright 

SOF Not Fairly Firm 

ROU Not Fairly Smooth 

MIS Not Fairly Straight 

OVM Not Fairly Tender 

COL Not Fairly Uniform in Color 

COL Not Fairly Well Colored 

COV Not Fairly Well Covered 

MIS Not Fairly Well Developed 

FIL Not Fairly Well Filled 

MIS Not Fairly Well Formed 

IMM Not Fairly Well Matured 

NET Not Fairly Well Netted 

MIS Not Fairly Well Shaped 

IMT Not Fairly Well Trimmed 

OVM Not Fairly Young and Tender 

NFR Not Firm 

CPT Not Generally Compact 

CPT Not Generally Fairly Compact 

NHF No Head Formation 

COL Not Moderately Colored 

FIL Not Moderately Filled 

COL Not Poorly Colored 

EVC Not Neatly and Fairly Evenly 

Cut Off at Base 

COL Not Reasonably Well Colored 

FIL Not Reasonably Well Filled 

MIS Not Reasonably Well Formed 

ROU Not Smooth 

NSS Not Standard Sizing 

MIS Not Straight 

OVM Not Tender 

NUA Not Uniform in Appearance 

COL Not Uniform in Color 

COL Not Very Well Colored 

COL Not Well Colored 

COV Not Well Covered 

MIS Not Well Developed 

FIL Not Well Filled 
SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 64 of 112 

MIS Not Well Formed 

GWN Not Well Grown 

IMM Not Well Matured 

NET Not Well Netted 

MIS Not Well Shaped 

IMT Not Well Trimmed 

OVM Not Young and Tender 

O 

VAR Off Type 

IMT Off-length Tops 

OFS Offsize 

OIS Oil Spots 

OSP Oil Spray 

OVM Old and Tough 

OVL Open Veils 

OPN Opening 

OTH Other 

DFM Other Kind of Burrs 

VAR Other Kind of Leaves 

VAR Other Varieties 

OVM Overdeveloped 

OVM Overgrown 

OVM Overmature 

OVR Overripe 

OVS Oversize 

P 

FRZ Pack Ice Freezing 

INS Pear Psylla Injury 

PEB Pebbling 

PEE Peeling 

PET Peteca 

PKE Pink Eye 

PIR Pink Rib 

OVM Pithiness 

PBC Pithy Brown Core 

PIT Pitting 

PIT Pitted Areas 

VAR Plants in Leaves 

POS Pod Spot 

UDV Poor Head Formation 

IMT Poorly Clipped 

COL Poorly Colored 

UDV Poorly Developed 

COV Poorly Sheathed 

IMT Poorly Trimmed 

MIL Powdery Mildew on Stems 

POX Pox 

BRU Pressure Bruises 

PUF Puffiness 

PUE Pulled Ends 

PUS Pulled Stems 

SUA Sunken Areas 

PUB Purple Blotch 

R 

RAC Rain Checks 

OVM Raisined 

OVM Raisining 

COL Reasonably Well Colored 

MIS Reasonably Well Formed 

INS Red Banded Leaf Roller Injury 

REB Red Blotch 

RSS Red Skin Spots 

RED Redberry 

DFM Rhizoctonia 

RIB Rib Discoloration 

OVM Riciness 
SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 65 of 112 

RBR Rind Breakdown 

WRM Rind Worm Injury 

ROD Rodent Damage 

ROD Rodent Injury 

ROO Roots 

ROU Rough 

ROU Rough Texture 

NAV Rough, Wide, and/or Protruding 

Navels 

RUB Rubbery 

RSP Russet Spotting 

RUS Russeting 

RUS Russeting, Slightly Rough 

RUS Russeting, Smooth Net-like 

RUS Russeting, Smooth Solid 

RST Rust 

RST Rust Spots 

RBD Rusty Brown Discoloration 

S 

SCL San Jose Scale 

SAN Sandburrs 

SCA Scab 

SCA Scab, Pitted 

SCA Scab, Powdery 

SCA Scab, Russet 

SCA Scab, Surface 

SCD Scald 

SCL Scale 

SCL Scale Marks 

SCN Scallions 

SCK Scarfskin 

SCR Scarring 

SCR Scars 

SCU Scuffing 

SCF Scurf 

SCK Seam Cracks 

SGR Second Growth 

SGR Second Growth at Tip 

NGR Secondary New Top Growth 

NGR Secondary Rootlets 

SES Seed Spot 

OVM Seed Stalks 

SEB Seedbuds 

SEE Seeds 

SST Seedstems 

SST Seedstems in Tops 

DFM Serious Damage by Dirt 

MIS Seriously Deformed 

MIS Seriously Misshapen 

SBR Shatter Bruises 

SHA Shattering 

IMM Shot Berries 

SHF Shot Hole Fungus 

SHR Shriveled 

SHR Shriveled at Capstem 

SHR Shriveled Ends 

SHR Shriveling 

SIS Silver Scurf 

SIL Silvering 

SWD Silvery White Discoloration 

SKB Skin Breakdown 

BSK Skin Breaks 

SKC Skin Checks 

MIS Slightly Deformed 

ROU Slightly Rough 

SSK Slightly Skinned 

SOF Slightly Spongy 
 

SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 66 of 112 

WIL Slightly Wilted 

MIS Sloping Shoulder 

WRM Slug Injury 

SMO Smothering 

SMD Smudge 

SMU Smut 

SOF Soft 

SOF Soft and Puffy 

BRU Soft Bruises 

SOE Soft Ends 

SOF Soft or Flabby 

SOF Soft Overripe 

ROT Soft Rot 

SCD Soft Scald 

SBR Soggy Breakdown 

DFM Soil 

SBL Sooty Blotch 

SML Sooty Mold 

SOA Sour Asparagus 

SOS Sour Skin 

SBW Southern Bacterial Wilt 

SCM Southern Celery Mosaic 

SPM Spanish Measles 

SPE Speck 

INS Spiders 

SPI Spindly 

SPL Split 

SPL Split Berries 

NAV Split Navels 

SPL Split or Crushed 

SPP Split Pit 

STS Split Stalks 

NAV Split, Rough, Wide, and/or 

Protruding Navels 

SPG Spongy 

SPO Spots 

SDL Spotted Leaves 

SPW Spotted Wilt 

DFM Spray Residue 

DFM Spray Spotting 

SBN Sprayburn 

SPR Spreading 

SSP Slightly Spread 

SPB Sprouted Beans 

SDS Sprouted Seeds 

SPT Sprouts 

STN Staining 

UDV Stalks Not Fairly Well 

Developed 

UDV Stalks Not Reasonably Well 

Developed 

SCB Stem Cavity Browning 

SEA Stem End Aging 

IDS Stem End Browning 

IMT Stem Length 

CCK Stem or Calyx Cracks 

SMP Stem Punctures 

IMT Stems 

STM Stigmonose 

INS Stings 

SYP Stony Pit 

STI Storage Injury 

STS Storage Scab 

STR Straggly 

OVM Stringy 

UDV Stunted 

SEB Stylar End Breakdown 

SUC Suckers 
 

SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 67 of 112 

SDI Sulphur Dioxide Injury 

SUN Sunburn 

SUA Sunken Areas 

SUA Sunken Areas with Underlying 

Flesh Discolored 

SDA Sunken Discolored Areas 

SDA Sunken Discolored Areas, Sticky 

SDA Sunken Discolored Areas with 

underlying Flesh Discolored 

SUA Sunken or Pitted Areas 

SNS Sunscald 

SUB Surface Bumps 

CRA Surface Cracks 

DIS Surface Discoloration 

MOL Surface Mold 

SUT Sutures 

T 

THS Thick Skin 

SCR Thorn Scratches 

THR Thrip Injury 

TIP Tipburn 

IMT Tops 

OVM Tough 

OVM Tough and Stringy 

OVM Tough and Woody Stems 

TFR Transit Freezing 

TRR Transit Rubs 

TRS Translucent Scale 

TDA Translucent Discolored Areas 

TRM Trimming 

WRM Tuber Moth Damage 

WRM Tuber Moth Injury 

OVM Turning Hard to Hard Kernels 

COL Turning Red 

COL Turning Yellow 

DCT Turning Yellow Tops 

U 

COL Undercolor 

UDV Underdeveloped Pods 

UNS Undersize 

UDV Undersize Bunches 

UDV Undeveloped 

UDV Undeveloped Doubles 

UDV Undeveloped Segments 

CUT Unhealed Cuts 

BSK Unhealed Skin Breaks 

USS Unhealed Stem Scars 

DIS Unsightly Discoloration 

V 

VAR Varietal Mixture 

IDS Vascular Browning 

VAD Vascular Discoloration 

VIM Virus Mottling 

W 

WCI Water Core, Invisible 

WCV Water Core, Visible 

SOF Waterberry 

WAT Watersoaked 

WAS Watery Scale 

WBT Waxy Blisters 

WBD Waxy Breakdown 

WEK Weak 

WKB Weak Berry 

WKS Weak Stems 

DFM Weeds 

INS Weevil Damage 

WET Wet 
 

SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 68 of 112 

WEB Wet Berries 

WAS Wet and Sticky Berries 

WBR Wet Breakdown 

ROT Wet Fusarium Tuber Rot 

WES Wet Slip 

WSS Wet Sunscald 

WHC White Core 

WHR White Rust 

WHH Whiteheart 

WIL Wilted Heads 

WIL Wilted Jacket Leaves 

WIL Wilted, Limp, and/or Drooping 

WIL Wilting 

WIL Withered 

OVM Woodiness 

OVM Woody 

FEI Worm and Insect Feeding Injury 

WRM Worm Damage 

WRM Worm Holes 

WRM Worm Injury 

WRM Worms 

WRM Wormy Fruit 

WRK Wrinkled 

Y 

COL Yellow 

COL Yellow Color 

DCL Yellow Leaves 

DCT Yellow Tops 

DCT Yellow or Brown Tops 

YEL Yellowing 

DCT Yellowing Tops 

YSC York Skin Cracks 

YOS York Spot 

Z 

ZEC Zebra Chip 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SCI Division Inspection Series 

Effective Date: March 2015 

Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Page 69 of 112 

APPENDIX 4: FV-300 CERTIFICATE EXAMPLES 

Example # 1A: Broccoli – Superseded Certificate 

CARRIER or LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

Applicant: 

PRODUCE WHOLESALE INC 

U.S. U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE 

H R A Z 5 7 3 5 7 0 INSPECTION CERTIFICATE U L Address: 

ANYWHERE, NY PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

M - Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional Lot ID: Shipper: 

PRODUCE SHIPPER INC EXAMPLE # 1A APPLICANT PO: 1234 

Carrier Type / Name: Address: 

SOMEWHERE, CA 

Inspection Started: 

m m d d y y hour min. A/P 

Refrigeration Unit: 

☐

Doors: 

☐ Open ☐ Closed 

Insp. Site: 

APPLICANT’S STORE 0 3 1 3 0 9 0 9 4 5 A M 

LOT 

TEMPERATURES 

Product: Brand/Markings: Origin Lot ID: Number of Containers: Insp 

count 

A: to oF BROCCOLI, BUNCHED ‘SILVA” 14 COUNT 480 CARTONS Y 34 35 C A 

B: to oF BROCCOLI, BUNCHED ‘SILVA” 18 COUNT 384 CARTONS Y 35 36 C A 

C: to oF 

D: to oF L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM OFFSIZE/DEFECTS OTHER 

A. 11 % 00 % % FLOWERING BUD CLUSTERS (7 TO 21%) EACH LOT: NO PACK ICE PRESENT. 

10 % 00 % % DISCOLORED BUD CLUSTERS (0 TO 14 %) DISCOLORED BUDS ARE YELLOW COLOR. 

00 % 00 % % DECAY 

11 % 00 % % CHECKSUM 

% % % 

B. 11 % 00 % % FLOWERING BUD CLUSTERS (6 TO 17%) 

09 % 00 % % DISCOLORED BUD CLUSTERS (0 TO 17 %) 

00 % 00 % % DECAY 

20 % 00 % % CHECKSUM 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

GRADE: 

REMARKS: CONDITION ONLY AT APPLICANT’S REQUEST. 

WARNING: Any person who knowingly shall falsely 

make, issue, alter, forge, or counterfeit this certificate 

or participate in any such actions, is subject to a fine 

of not more than $1,000 or imprisonment for not more 

than one year, or both. 

I, the undersigned, a duly authorized inspector of the United States Department of Agriculture, do hereby certify that at the request of the applicant and 

on the date indicated, samples of the herein described product were inspected and the quality and/or condition as shown by said samples were as herein 

stated. 

ESTIMATED TOTAL 

Inspector’s Signature: Market Office: 

Inspector’s Signature $$$$ MARKET CITY, STATE 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 70 of 112 

Example # 1B: Broccoli – Corrected Certificate 

CARRIER or LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

Applicant: 

PRODUCE WHOLESALE INC 

U.S. U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE 

H R A Z 5 7 3 5 7 0 INSPECTION CERTIFICATE U L Address: 

ANYWHERE, NY PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

M -

CORRECTED 

Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional Lot ID: Shipper: 

APPLICANT PO: 1234 PRODUCE SHIPPER INC EXAMPLE # 1B

Carrier Type / Name: Address: 

SOMEWHERE, CA 

Inspection Started: 

m m d d y y hour min. A/P 

Refrigeration Unit: 

☐ On ☐ Off 

Doors: 

☐ Open ☐ Closed 

Insp. Site: 

APPLICANT’S STORE 0 3 1 3 0 9 0 9 4 5 A M 

LOT TEMPERATURES Product: Brand/Markings: Origin Lot ID: Number of Containers: Insp 

count 

A: 38 to 42 oF BROCCOLI, BUNCHED “SILVA” 14 COUNT C A 480 CARTONS Y

B: 39 to 43 oF BROCCOLI, BUNCHED “SILVA” 18 COUNT C A 384 CARTONS Y

C: to oF 

D: to oF L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM OFFSIZE/DEFECTS OTHER 

A. 11 % 00 % % FLOWERING BUD CLUSTERS (7 TO 21%) EACH LOT: NO PACK ICE PRESENT. 

10 % 00 % % DISCOLORED BUD CLUSTERS (0 TO 14 %) DISCOLORED BUDS ARE YELLOW COLOR. 

00 % 00 % % DECAY 

21 % 00 % % CHECKSUM 

% % % 

B. 11 % 00 % % FLOWERING BUD CLUSTERS (6 TO 17%) 

09 % 00 % % DISCOLORED BUD CLUSTERS (0 TO 17 %) 

00 % 00 % % DECAY 

20 % 00 % % CHECKSUM 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

GRADE: 

REMARKS: THIS CERTIFICATE SUPERSEDES M-XXXXXX-1 ACCOUNT CORRECTION OF CHECKSUM FOR LOT A. 

CONDITION ONLY AT APPLICANT’S REQUEST. 

WARNING: Any person who knowingly shall falsely 

make, issue, alter, forge, or counterfeit this certificate 

or participate in any such actions, is subject to a fine 

of not more than $1,000 or imprisonment for not more 

than one year, or both. 

I, the undersigned, a duly authorized inspector of the United States Department of Agriculture, do hereby certify that at the request of the applicant and on 

the date indicated, samples of the herein described product were inspected and the quality and/or condition as shown by said samples were as herein stated. ESTIMATED TOTAL 

Inspector’s Signature: Market Office: 

SEE M-XXXXXX-1 Inspector’s Signature MARKET CITY, STATE 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 71 of 112 

Example # 2: Cabbage – Partly Unloaded, Live Worms 

CARRIER or LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

Applicant: 

NORTHEAST PRODUCE CO 

U.S. U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE 

S T 1 5 3 0 T C F L INSPECTION CERTIFICATE P U Address: 

ANYWHERE, ME PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

M - Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional Lot ID: Shipper: 

INSPECTOR PO 4522 FLORIDA VEGGIES INC. EXAMPLE # 2

Carrier Type / Name: Address: 

SOMEWHERE, FL 

Inspection Started: 

MECHANICAL REFREGERATED TRAILER m m d d y y hour min. A/P 

Refrigeration Unit: 

☒ On ☐ Off 

Doors: 

☐ Open ☒ Closed 

Insp. Site: 

APPLICANT’S DOCK 0 9 0 5 1 3 0 1 3 0 P M 

LOT TEMPERATURES Product: Brand/Markings: Origin Lot ID: Number of Containers: Insp 

count 

A: 36 to 40 oF CABBAGE, DOMESTIC “CABBAGE KID” 50 LBS. NET F L LOADED LOT 600 CARTONS Y

B: to 47 55 oF CABBAGE, DOMESTIC “CABBAGE KID” 50 LBS. NET F L UNLOADED LOT 600 CARTONS Y

C: to oF 

D: to oF L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM OFFSIZE/DEFECTS OTHER 

A. 03 % 01 % % QUALITY – BURST HEADS 

08 % 04 % % FRESH BURST HEADS (0 TO 12%) 

02 % 00 % % NUMEROUS BLACK SUNKEN DISCOLORED AREAS 

01 % 01 % % SOFT ROT, EARLY STAGES 

14 % 06 % % CHECKSUM 

% % % 

B. 04 % 00 % % QUALITY – MECHANICAL DAMAGE 

15 % 09 % % WORM INJURY WITH LIVE WORMS PRESENT (6 TO 28%) 

04 % 00 % % YELLOWING HEAD LEAVES 

02 % 02 % % SOFT ROT, EARLY STAGES 

25 % 11 % % CHECKSUM 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

GRADE: LOTS A AND B: FAIL TO GRADE U.S. NO. 1 ACCOUNT CONDITION. 

REMARKS: LOT A: INSPECTED DURING PROCESS OF UNLOADING. LOT B: SITTING ON DOCK AT TIME OF INSPECTION. APPLICANT STATES UNLOADED 

FROM ABOVE MENTIONED TRAILER. 

WARNING: Any person who knowingly shall falsely 

make, issue, alter, forge, or counterfeit this certificate 

or participate in any such actions, is subject to a fine 

of not more than $1,000 or imprisonment for not more 

than one year, or both. 

I, the undersigned, a duly authorized inspector of the United States Department of Agriculture, do hereby certify that at the request of the applicant and on 

the date indicated, samples of the herein described product were inspected and the quality and/or condition as shown by said samples were as herein stated. ESTIMATED TOTAL 

Inspector’s Signature: Market Office: 

$$$$ Inspector’s Signature MARKET CITY, STATE 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 72 of 112 

Example # 3: Plums (Condition Only) and Cilantro (NOG) 

CARRIER or LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

Applicant: 

IMPORTED PRODUCE INC. 

U.S. U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE 

N O I D INSPECTION CERTIFICATE L I Address: 

ANYWHERE, PA PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

M - Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional Lot ID: Shipper: 

TROPICAL FRUIT BROKERAE EXAMPLE # 3 

Carrier Type / Name: Address: 

SOMEWHERE, PA 

Inspection Started: 

m m d d y y hour min. A/P 

Refrigeration Unit: 

☐ On ☐ Off 

Doors: 

☐ Open ☐ Closed 

Insp. Site: 

APPLICANT’S STORE 0 6 0 5 1 3 0 1 1 5 P M 

LOT TEMPERATURES Product: Brand/Markings: Origin Lot ID: Number of Containers: Insp 

count 

A: 38 to 40 oF PLUMS “UTC” BLACK AMBER, SIZE 60 C E GROWER # 8452 256 CARTONS Y

B: 38 to 39 oF CILANTRO “WESTERN EXPRESS” 30 BUNCHES C E 140 CARTONS Y

C: to oF 

D: to oF L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM OFFSIZE/DEFECTS OTHER 

A 06 % 03 % % INTERNAL DISCOLORATION (4 TO 10%) LOT A: MANY FIRM RIPE, MANY RIPE. 

07 % 07 % % SOFT (4 TO 12%) DECAY: MOSTLY ADVANCED, SOME EARLY 

22 % 22 % % DECAY (19 TO 25%) STAGES. 

35 % 32 % % CHECKSUM 

% % % 

B. 02 % % % WILTED LOT B: DISCOLORATION IS YELLOW 

03 % % % DISCOLORED LEAVES TO BROWN AND AFFECTING 10% TO 30% 

01 % % % DECAY, EARLY STAGES OF BUNCH. 

06 % % % CHECKSUM 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

GRADE: 

REMARKS: EACH LOT: CONDITION ONLY AT APPLICANT’S REQUEST 

WARNING: Any person who knowingly shall falsely 

make, issue, alter, forge, or counterfeit this certificate 

or participate in any such actions, is subject to a fine 

of not more than $1,000 or imprisonment for not more 

than one year, or both. 

I, the undersigned, a duly authorized inspector of the United States Department of Agriculture, do hereby certify that at the request of the applicant and on 

the date indicated, samples of the herein described product were inspected and the quality and/or condition as shown by said samples were as herein stated. ESTIMATED TOTAL 

Inspector’s Signature: Market Office: 

$$$$ Inspector’s Signature MARKET CITY, STATE 

Tip: Lot A: Soft 

and decay take 

away from 

firmness. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 73 of 112 

Example # 4: Potatoes – Visible Sprouts 

CARRIER or LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

Applicant: 

POGO’S POTATOES, LLT 

U.S. U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE 

I X B Z 8 5 0 4 5 2 INSPECTION CERTIFICATE L O Address: 

ANYWHERE, NY PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

M - Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional Lot ID: Shipper: 

GREAT POTATOE CORP. EXAMPLE # 4 INSPECTOR PO 102828 

Carrier Type / Name: Address: 

SOMEWHERE, ID 

Inspection Started: 

MECHAN. REFRIG. TRAILER m m d d y y hour min. A/P 

Refrigeration Unit: 

☒ On ☐ Off 

Doors: 

☐ Open ☒ Closed 

Insp. Site: 

APPLICANT’S WAREHOUSE 0 9 2 0 1 3 0 8 3 5 A M 

LOT TEMPERATURES Product: Brand/Markings: Origin Lot ID: Number of Containers: Insp 

count 

A: 40 to 45 oF POTATOES, RUSSET “PAPAS” US NO. 1, 70, 80, 90 SIZE I D USDA ID-454-09 / 454-11 700 CARTONS Y

B: 40 to 42 oF POTATOES, RUSSET “GRANDMAS” US NO. 1, 10/5 LB. I D USDA ID-454-11 100 MASTER CARTONS Y

C: 41 to 43 oF POTATOES, ROUND WHITE “UNCLE ED” US NO.1, 2” MIN, 50 LB. I D USDA ID-454-12 100 BAGS Y

D: to oF 

L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM OFFSIZE/DEFECTS OTHER 

A. 02 % 00 % % QUALITY – OLD CUTS LOT A: MEETS SIZE AS STAMPED. 

03 % 00 % % SILVER SCURF (0 TO 9%) OFFSIZE WITHIN TOLERANCE. 

01 % 00 % % INTERNAL BLACK SPOTS 

1/2 % 1/2 % % SOFT ROT (0 TO 4%), EARLY STAGES LOT B: 2 INCHES IN DIAMETER, OR 

07 % 01 % % CHECKSUM 4 TO 10 OUNCES IN WEIGHT. 

B. 03 % 00 % % QUALITY – OLD CUTS NO OFFSIZE. 

07 % 02 % % SILVER SCURF (4 TO 13%) LOT B: IN MOST SAMPLES SOME 

03 % 00 % % NET NECROSIS TO MANY POTATOES SHOW 

02 % 00 % % INTERNAL BLACK SPOTS SPROUTS RANGING FROM BARELY 

03 % 03 % % SOFT ROT (1 TO 4%), EARLY STAGES VISIBLE TO 1/4 INCH IN LENGTH, NOT 

18 % 05 % % CHECKSUM AFFECTING GRADE. 

C. 04 % 00 % % QUALITY – OLD CUTS, GROWTH CRACKS 

17 % 05 % % INTERNAL BLACK SPOTS (11 TO 26%) LOT C: SIZE 2 TO 3 INCHES LOT C: ALL SAMPLES SHOW ALL 

06 % 00 % % SPROUTS (3 TO 12%) IN DIAMETER. NO OFFSIZE. POTATOES HAVING SPROUTS 

01 % 01 % % SOFT ROT, EARLY STAGES RANGING FROM BARELY VISIBLE 

28 % 06 % % CHECKSUM TO 1 INCH IN LENGTH. 

GRADE: LOT A: U.S. NO. 1, 70, 80, OR 90 SIZE. LOT B: FAILS TO GRADE U.S. NO. 1, 2 INCH OR 4 OUNCE MINIMUM, ACCOUNT CONDITION. 

LOT C: FAILS TO GRADE U.S. NO. 1, 2 INCH MINIMUM DIAMETER ACCOUNT CONDITION. 

REMARKS: ABOVE LOTS INSPECTED DURING PROCESS OF UNDLOADING. 

LOT B: SIZE BASED ON IDAHO MARKETING ORDER, AT APPLICANT’S REQUEST. 

WARNING: Any person who knowingly shall falsely 

make, issue, alter, forge, or counterfeit this certificate 

or participate in any such actions, is subject to a fine 

of not more than $1,000 or imprisonment for not more 

than one year, or both. 

I, the undersigned, a duly authorized inspector of the United States Department of Agriculture, do hereby certify that at the request of the applicant and on 

the date indicated, samples of the herein described product were inspected and the quality and/or condition as shown by said samples were as herein stated. ESTIMATED TOTAL 

Inspector’s Signature: Market Office: 

$$$$ Inspector’s Signature BRONX, NY 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 74 of 112 

Example # 5: Onions – Partly Unloaded, Staining 

CARRIER or LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

Applicant: 

JOE’S ONION HOUSE 

U.S. U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE 

U C 4 5 6 7 C A INSPECTION CERTIFICATE P U Address: 

ANYWHERE, MA PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

M - Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional Lot ID: Shipper: 

FARMER JOHN EXAMPLE # 5 INSPECTOR PO 9876 

Carrier Type / Name: Address: 

SOMEWHERE, TX 

Inspection Started: 

MECHANICAL REFRIG. TRAILER m m d d y y hour min. A/P 

Refrigeration Unit: 

☐ On ☒ Off 

Doors: 

☒ Open ☐ Closed 

Insp. Site: 

APPLICANT’S WAREHOUSE DOCK 0 4 1 8 1 3 0 9 5 5 A M 

LOT TEMPERATURES Product: Brand/Markings: Origin Lot ID: Number of Containers: Insp 

count 

A: 61 to 67 oF BGG ONIONS “SOUTHERN QUEEN” 50 LBS. T X LOADED MEDIUM YELLOW 400 SACKS Y

B: 63 to 68 oF BGG ONIONS “SOUTHERN KING” 50 LBS. T X UNLOADED JUMBO YELLOW 400 SACKS Y

C: to oF 

D: to oF L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM OFFSIZE/DEFECTS OTHER 

A. 27 % 12 % % QUALITY – STAINING (15 TO 43%) LOT A: 2 TO 3-1/2 INCHES IN 

02 % 00 % % QUALITY – MISSHAPEN, SEEDSTEMS DIAMETER. OVERSIZE WITHIN 

04 % 01 % % DRY SUNKEN AREAS TOLERANCE. 

02 % 02 % % DECAY, ADVANCED STAGES 

35 % 15 % % CHECKSUM 

% % % 

B. 02 % 00 % % QUALITY – MISSHAPEN, SEEDSTEMS 

03 % 00 % % DRY SUNKEN AREAS LOT B: 2-3/4 TO 4-1/2 INCHES, 

01 % 01 % % DECAY, EARLY STAGES MOSTLY 3-1/2 TO 4 INCHES IN 

06 % 01 % % CHECKSUM DIAMETER. UNDERSIZE WITHIN 

% % % TOLERANCE. 

% % % 

% % % LOT B: MOSTLY SLIGHTLY STAINED, 

% % % SOME APPRECIABLY TO BADLY 

% % % STAINED; NOT AFFECTING GRADE, REPORTED AT 

% % % APPLICANT’S REQUEST. 

GRADE: LOT A: FAILS TO GRADE U.S. NO. 1 GRANEX-GRANO, MEDIUM, ACCOUNT QUALITY (STAINING). 

LOT B: U.S. NO. 1 GRANEX-GRANO, JUMBO. 

REMARKS: LOT A: INSPECTED DURING PROCESS OF UNLOADING. LOT B: APPLICANT STATES UNLOADED FROM ABOVE MENTIONED TRAILER. 

WARNING: Any person who knowingly shall falsely 

make, issue, alter, forge, or counterfeit this certificate 

or participate in any such actions, is subject to a fine 

of not more than $1,000 or imprisonment for not more 

than one year, or both. 

I, the undersigned, a duly authorized inspector of the United States Department of Agriculture, do hereby certify that at the request of the applicant and on 

the date indicated, samples of the herein described product were inspected and the quality and/or condition as shown by said samples were as herein stated. ESTIMATED TOTAL 

Inspector’s Signature: Market Office: 

$$$$ Inspector’s Signature MARKET CITY, STATE 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 75 of 112 

Example # 6: Apples – Combination Grade, Bitter Pit 

CARRIER or LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

Applicant: 

DAVE & ROBIN FARMS 

U.S. U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE 

X X 1 2 J 4 5 I L INSPECTION CERTIFICATE L O Address: 

ANYWHERE, NJ PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

M - Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional Lot ID: Shipper: 

MIDWEST FRUIT INC. EXAMPLE # 6 INSPECTOR PO 540 

Carrier Type / Name: Address: 

CHICAGO, IL 

Inspection Started: 

MEC. REFRIG. TRAILER m m d d y y hour min. A/P 

Refrigeration Unit: 

☒ On ☐ Off 

Doors: 

☐ Open ☒ Closed 

Insp. Site: 

APPLICANT’S STORE 0 9 2 4 1 3 0 2 3 0 P M 

LOT TEMPERATURES Product: Brand/Markings: Origin Lot ID: Number of Containers: Insp 

count 

A: 36 to 39 oF APPLES, RED “INDIANA BEST” RED DELICIOUS US EXTRA FANCY I N 88, 100 SIZE 600 CARTONS Y

B: 35 to 39 oF APPLES, RED “OHIO FINEST” RED DELICIOUS COMBO US EX FCY & FCY O H 12/3 LB. BAGS 500 MASTER CARTONS Y

C: 36 to 40 oF APPLES, RED “ILLINOIS CRISP” US FCY, ROME I L 70 SIZE 400 CARTONS Y

D: to oF 

L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM OFFSIZE/DEFECTS OTHER 

A. 03 % 01 % 00 % QUALITY – STEM PUNCTURES, LIMBRUBS LOT A: MOSTLY FIRM RIPE, MANY 

30 % 16 % 05 % BRUISING (20 TO 38%) RIPE. 

09 % 09 % 02 % BITTER PIT (4 TO 14%) LOT A: MOST BRUISING AFFECTS 

00 % 00 % 00 % DECAY RIPE FRUIT, SOME AFFECTS 

42 % 26 % 07 % CHECKSUM FIRM RIPE FRUIT. 

B. 32 % 04 % 00 % QUALITY – UNDERCOLOR & MISSHAPEN (16 TO 46%) 

20 % 07 % 02 % BRUISING (11 TO 31%) 

07 % 07 % 03 % BITTER PIT (2 TO 14%) LOTS B AND C: MOSTLY RIPE, SOME 

01 % 01 % 01 % DECAY (0 to 8%), ADVANCE STAGES FIRM RIPE 

60 % 19 % 06 % CHECKSUM 

C. DAM % S. DAM % % LOT B: BRUISING AFFECTS ALL 

02 % 00 % % QUALITY – LIMBRUBS STAGES OF RIPENESS AND IS 

05 % 01 % % BRUISING SCATTERED THROUGHOUT PACK 

01 % 00 % % BITTER PIT AND LOT. 

-1/2 % -1/2 % % DECAY, EARLY STAGES 

08 % 01 % % CHECKSUM 

GRADE: LOT A: U.S. EXTRA FANCY, BRUISING AND BITTER PIT BEING FACTORS OF CONDITION 

LOT B: COMBINATION U.S. EXTRA FANCY AND U.S. FANCY, BRUISING AND BITTER PIT BEING FACTORS OF CONDITION. LOT C: U.S. FANCY 

REMARKS: INSPECTED DURING PROCESS OF UNLOADING 

WARNING: Any person who knowingly shall falsely 

make, issue, alter, forge, or counterfeit this certificate 

or participate in any such actions, is subject to a fine 

of not more than $1,000 or imprisonment for not more 

than one year, or both. 

I, the undersigned, a duly authorized inspector of the United States Department of Agriculture, do hereby certify that at the request of the applicant and on 

the date indicated, samples of the herein described product were inspected and the quality and/or condition as shown by said samples were as herein stated. ESTIMATED TOTAL 

Inspector’s Signature: Market Office: 

$$$$ Inspector’s Signature NEWARK, NJ 

Tip: Lot B: 

Even though 

allowed one 

decayed apple in 

each bag, decay 

is ranged since 

the range 

exceeds lot 

tolerance. 
SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 76 of 112 

Example # 7: Fresh Cut – Partly Unloaded 

CARRIER or LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

Applicant: 

JANE’S SALAD HOUSE 

U.S. U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE 

4 A J 1 3 0 3 C A INSPECTION CERTIFICATE P U Address: 

ANYWHERE, MD PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

M - Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional Lot ID: Shipper: 

VEGETABLE PROCESSORS, INC. EXAMPLE # 7 INSPECTOR 

Carrier Type / Name: Address: 

WATSONVILLE, CA 

Inspection Started: 

MECHANICAL REFRIGERATED TRAILER m m d d y y hour min. A/P 

Refrigeration Unit: 

 On ☐ Off 

Doors: 

 Open ☐ Closed 

Insp. Site: 

APPLICANT’S DOCK 1 1 2 9 1 3 0 9 0 0 A M 

LOT TEMPERATURES Product: Brand/Markings: Origin Lot ID: Number of Containers: Insp 

count 

A: 33 to 36 oF SHREDDED LETTUCE “FRESH STUFF” 20 LBS, 1/8” SHRED C A LOADED 54 CARTONS Y

B: 34 to 36 oF CHOPPED LETTUCE “FRESH STUFF” 2-10 LBS, 2X3 CHOP C A LOADED 450 CARTONS Y

C: 35 to 39 oF SHREDDED VEGETABLE MIX “FRESH STUFF” 20 LBS, COLESLAW C A UNLOADED 90 BAGS Y

D: to oF L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM OFFSIZE/DEFECTS OTHER 

A. 00 % % % TOTAL DEFECTS INCLUDING: NO DECAY. 

00 % % % CHECKSUM 

% % % 

B. 02 % % % TOTAL DEFECTS INCLUDING: FROM 1 TO 4 PIECES PER SAMPLE AFFECTED BY REDDISH DISCOL ORATION ALONG EDGES. FROM 0 TO 3 PIECES 

02 % % % CHECKSUM PER SAMPLE AFFECTED BY TIPBURN. NO DECAY. 

% % % 

C. 01 % % % TOTAL DEFECTS INCLUDING: FROM 0 TO 1 PIECES PER SAMPLE AFFECTED BY LOT C: MIX CONSISTS OF 

01 % % % CHECKSUM DARK BROWN DISCOLORATION – AFFECTING SHREDDED GREEN AND RED 

% % % GREEN CABBAGE CABBAGE, AND SHREDDED CARROT. 

% % % FROM 0 TO 2 PIECES PER SAMPLE AFFECTED BY 

% % % SOFT ROT – AFFECTING GREEN CABAGE 

% % % NO SOFT ROT AFFECTING RED CABBAGE AND CARROTS. 

% % % 

% % % EACH LOT: 

% % % 225 GRAM SAMPLES EXAMINED. 

% % % 

GRADE: 

REMARKS: LOT C: A FEW ABNORMALLY BLOATED BAGS EMIT A SOUR ODOR UPON OPENING, WITH CONTENTS SLIMY. 

LOTS A AND B: INSPECTED DURING PROCESS OF UNLOADING. LOT C: APPLICANT STATES UNLOADED FROM ABOVE MENTIONED TRAILER. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

WARNING: Any person who knowingly shall falsely I, the undersigned, a duly authorized inspector of the United States Department of Agriculture, do hereby certify that at the request of the applicant and on ESTIMATED TOTAL make, issue, alter, forge, or counterfeit this certificate the date indicated, samples of the herein described product were inspected and the quality and/or condition as shown by said samples were as herein stated. 

or participate in any such actions, is subject to a fine Inspector’s Signature: Market Office: of not more than $1,000 or imprisonment for not more HOURLY RATE than one year, or both. Inspector’s Signature MARKET CITY, STATE 
SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 77 of 112 

Example # 8: Sweet Corn (Q & C) and Indian Corn (NOG) 

CARRIER or LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

Applicant: 

PLUTO PRODUCE, INC 

U.S. U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE 

P O 4 0 0 4 INSPECTION CERTIFICATE U L Address: 

ANYWHERE, NY PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

M - Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional Lot ID: Shipper: 

APPLICANT LOT 202 ALWAYS FRESH, INC. EXAMPLE # 8 

Carrier Type / Name: Address: 

POMPANO BEACH , FL 

Inspection Started: 

m m d d y y hour min. A/P 

Refrigeration Unit: 

☐ On ☐ Off 

Doors: 

☐ Open ☐ Closed 

Insp. Site: 

APPLICANT’S WAREHOUSE 0 9 2 0 1 3 0 9 3 0 A M 

LOT TEMPERATURES Product: Brand/Markings: Origin Lot ID: Number of Containers: Insp 

count 

A: 38 to 40 oF SWEET CORN “SWEET AS HONEY” 4 DOZ. F L YELLOW 100 CRATES Y

B: 39 to 42 oF SWEET CORN, HUSKED “SWEET AS HONEY” 12/6 BI-COLOR F L 60 CARTONS Y

C: 42 to 45 oF INDIAN CORN “NO BRAND” 1 BUSHEL G A 50 CARTONS Y

D: to oF L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM OFFSIZE/DEFECTS OTHER 

A. 

B. 

07 

13 

08 

02 

30 

11 

17 

00 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

02 

03 

01 

02 

08 

00 

08 

00 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

QUALITY - NOT WELL TRIMMED (4 TO 13%) 

INDENTED KERNELS (0 TO 20%) 

FRESH MECHANICAL (3 TO 12%) 

DECAY, EARLY STAGES 

CHECKSUM 

QUALITY – NOT FAIRLY WELL FILLED (0 TO 33%) 

INDENTED KERNELS (0 TO 50%) 

DECAY 

LOT A: 4-3/4 TO 7, MOSTLY 5-1/2 to 6-1/2 

INCHES IN LENGTH, SOME EARS CLIPPED. 

UNDERSIZE WITHIN TOLERANCE. 

EAR COUNT PER CRATE RANGES 

40 TO 50, AVERAGE 46. 

LOT B: 5-1/2 TO 6 INCHES IN LENGTH. 

ALL EARS CLIPPED. NO UNDERSIZE. 

MEETS COUNT AS MARKED. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

28 % 08 % % CHECKSUM 

% % % 

C. 05 % % % QUALITY – BROKEN OR BURST KERNELS AFFECTING 5 TO 10 KERNELS PER EAR 

18 % % % BLACK SURFACE MOLD COVERING 10 TO 33% OF EAR. 

00 % % % DECAY 

23 % % % CHECKSUM 

% % % 

GRADE: LOT A: FAILS TO GRADE U.S. NO. 1 ACCOUNT CONDITION. FAILS TO MEET COUNT AS MARKED. 

LOT B: FAILS TO GRADE U.S. NO. 1 HUSKED ACCOUNT QUALITY. LOT C: NO ESTABLISHED U.S. GRADE. 

REMARKS: LOT A: EAR COUNT PER CRATE DETERMINED AND REPORTED AT APPLICANT’S REQUEST. 

Tip: Lot C: Only 

report “No established 

U.S. grade” when 

doing quality & 

condition on NOGs. 

WARNING: Any person who knowingly shall falsely I, the undersigned, a duly authorized inspector of the United States Department of Agriculture, do hereby certify that at the request of the applicant and on ESTIMATED TOTAL make, issue, alter, forge, or counterfeit this certificate the date indicated, samples of the herein described product were inspected and the quality and/or condition as shown by said samples were as herein stated. 

or participate in any such actions, is subject to a fine Inspector’s Signature: Market Office: of not more than $1,000 or imprisonment for not more $$$$ than one year, or both. Inspector’s Signature ANYWHERE, NY 
SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 78 of 112 

Example # 9: Oranges – Excessive Discoloration 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CARRIER or LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

Applicant: 

ABC RECEIVING CO. 

U.S. U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE 

P O 1 2 2 9 INSPECTION CERTIFICATE U L Address: 

SOMEWHERE, NY PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

M -

APPEAL 

Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional Lot ID: Shipper: 

XYZ CITRUS INC. EXAMPLE # 9 

Carrier Type / Name: Address: 

ANYWHERE, FL 

Inspection Started: 

m m d d y y hour min. A/P 

Refrigeration Unit: 

☐ On ☐ Off 

Doors: 

☐ Open ☐ Closed 

Insp. Site: 

APPLICANT’S STORE 0 9 1 7 1 4 0 9 1 5 A M 

LOT TEMPERATURES Product: Brand/Markings: Origin Lot ID: Number of Containers: Insp 

count 

A: 37 to 41 oF ORANGES “ZEST” 100 SIZE, HAMLIN F L USDA-FL-XXXXX 500 CARTONS Y

B: 42 to 44 oF ORANGES “ZEST” 5 LB. BAG, HAMLIN F L USDA-FL-XXXXX 100 MASTER CARTONS Y

C: 39 to 43 oF ORANGES “ZEST” 80 SIZE, HAMLIN, US FANCY F L USDA-FL-XXXXX 200 CARTONS Y

D: to oF L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM OFFSIZE/DEFECTS OTHER 

A. 13 % 00 % 00 % QUALITY – EXCESSIVE DISCOLORATION (6 TO 24%) EACH LOT: 

02 % 00 % 00 % QUALITY – OIL SPOTS, SCARS, PULLED STEMS GENERALLY FIRM. 

04 % 01 % 00 % SKIN BREAKDOWN DECAY IS IN EARLY STAGES. 

-1 % -1 % -1 % DECAY 

20 % 02 % 01 % CHECKSUM THIS CERTIFICATE COVERS AN APPEAL 

B. 18 % 12 % 04 % QUALITY – GRANULATION, PULLED STEMS, SCARS (10 TO 30%) INSPECTION OF LOTS A, B AND C, WHICH WERE 

07 % 00 % 00 % QUALITY – EXCESSIVE DISCOLORATION (4 TO 16%) PREVIOUSLY INSPECTED AND REPORTED ON 

03 % 00 % 00 % SKIN BREAKDOWN FEDERAL CERTIFICATE M-XXXXXX-X, DATED 

02 % 02 % 02 % DECAY SEPTEMBER 18, 2014, WHICH ARE REVERSED AS 

30 % 14 % 06 % CHECKSUM TO QUALITY AND GRADE. 

C. INJURY % DAM % SD/VSD % 

17 % 03 % 00 00 % QUALITY – EXCESSIVE DISCOLORATION, CAKED MELANOSE, SCARS (6 TO 28%) 

06 % 00 % 00 00 % SKIN BREAKDOWN (0 TO10%) 

03 % 03 % 03 03 % DECAY 

26 % 06 % 03 03 % CHECKSUM 

% % % 

GRADE: LOT A: FAILS TO GRADE U.S. NO. 1 ACCOUNT QUALITY (EXCESSIVE DISCOLORATION). 

LOT B: FAILS TO GRADE U.S. NO. 1 ACCOUNT QUALITY, LOT C: FAILS TO GRADE U.S. FANCY ACCOUNT QUALITY. 

REMARKS: LOT C: 4TH COLUMN ADDED TO ACCOUNT FOR U.S. FANCY GRADE. 

Tip: Lot C: U.S. Fancy 

does not have a separate 

tolerance for excessive 

discoloration. 

WARNING: Any person who knowingly shall falsely 

make, issue, alter, forge, or counterfeit this certificate 

or participate in any such actions, is subject to a fine 

of not more than $1,000 or imprisonment for not more 

than one year, or both. 

I, the undersigned, a duly authorized inspector of the United States Department of Agriculture, do hereby certify that at the request of the applicant and on ESTIMATED TOTAL the date indicated, samples of the herein described product were inspected and the quality and/or condition as shown by said samples were as herein stated. 

Inspector’s Signature: Market Office: 

SEE M-XXXXXX-X Inspector’s Signature MARKET CITY, STATE 
SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 79 of 112 

Example # 10: Honeydew Melons – Freezing 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CARRIER or LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

Applicant: 

PRODUCE DEALERS INC 

U.S. U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE 

N O I D INSPECTION CERTIFICATE L I Address: 

ANYWHERE, VA PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

M - Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional Lot ID: Shipper: 

PRODUCE SHIPPER INC EXAMPLE # 10 

Carrier Type / Name: Address: 

SOMEWHERE, CA 

Inspection Started: 

m m d d y y hour min. A/P 

Refrigeration Unit: 

☐ On ☐ Off 

Doors: 

☐ Open ☐ Closed 

Insp. Site: 

APPLICANT’S DOCK 0 3 2 4 1 3 1 2 0 5 P M 

LOT TEMPERATURES Product: Brand/Markings: Origin Lot ID: Number of Containers: Insp 

count 

A: 29 to 40 oF HONEYDEW MELONS “TEDS BEST” 5 COUNT M X 180 CARTONS Y

B: to oF 

C: to oF 

D: to oF L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM OFFSIZE/DEFECTS OTHER 

% % 

% % 

% % 

% % 

% % 

% % 

% % 

% % 

% % 

% % 

% % 

% % 

% % 

% % 

% % 

% % 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

GRADE: 

FREEZING STATEMENT: 

PALLETS STACKED ON APPLICANT’S DOCK: ALL EXPOSED CARTON TOPS AND SIDES ON TOP 

LAYER AND SOME ON 2ND LAYER FROM TOP SHOW ALL MELONS ADJACENT 

TO EXPOSED AREAS ARE FROZEN. FREEZING EXTENDS 1 TO 8 INCHES INTO 

CONTENTS, AND IS SO LOCATED AS TO INDICATE FREEZING OCCURRED AFTER PACKING. 

REMARKS: RESTRICTED TO FREEZING ONLY AT APPLICANT’S REQUEST. 

WARNING: Any person who knowingly shall falsely I, the undersigned, a duly authorized inspector of the United States Department of Agriculture, do hereby certify that at the request of the applicant and on ESTIMATED TOTAL make, issue, alter, forge, or counterfeit this certificate the date indicated, samples of the herein described product were inspected and the quality and/or condition as shown by said samples were as herein stated. 

or participate in any such actions, is subject to a fine Inspector’s Signature: Market Office: of not more than $1,000 or imprisonment for not more HOURLY RATE than one year, or both. Inspector’s Signature MARKET CITY, STATE 
SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 80 of 112 

Example # 11: Leaf Lettuce – Freezing, Segregated Lot 

CARRIER or LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

Applicant: 

VARIETY VEGGIES, LLT. 

U.S. U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE 

T T 3 W 5 6 A A Z INSPECTION CERTIFICATE U L Address: 

SOMEWHERE, NC PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

M - Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional Lot ID: Shipper: EXAMPLE # 11 APPLICANT PO 898 YUM YUM LETTUCE CO. 

Carrier Type / Name: Address: 

YUMA, AZ 

Inspection Started: 

m m d d y y hour min. A/P 

Refrigeration Unit: 

☐ On ☐ Off 

Doors: 

☐ Open ☐ Closed 

Insp. Site: 

APPLICANT’S WAREHOUSE 0 2 1 2 1 4 1 0 3 0 A M 

LOT TEMPERATURES Product: Brand/Markings: Origin Lot ID: Number of Containers: Insp 

count 

A: 36 to 40 oF LEAF LETTUCE, FIELD GROWN “BUNNY YUM” 24 COUNT, MARKED GREEN A Z BALANCE OF LOAD 600 CARTONS Y

B: 42 to 44 oF LEAF LETTUCE, FIELD GROWN “BUNNY YUM” 24 COUNT, MARKED GREEN A Z SEGREGATED LOT 200 CARTONS Y

C: to oF 

D: to oF L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM OFFSIZE/DEFECTS OTHER 

A. 04 % 00 % % QUALITY – BROKEN MIDRIBS 

04 % 00 % % DISCOLORATION FOLLOWING BROKEN MIDRIBS 

01 % 01 % % DECAY, EARLY STAGES 

09 % 01 % % CHECKSUM 

% % % 

B. % % % 

% % % 

% % % LOT B: FREEZING STATEMENT: 

% % % ALL PALLETS SHOW MOST TO PRACTICALLY ALL CARTONS SCATTERED THROUGHOUT THE LOT HAVING CONTENTS 

% % % ADJACENT TO CARTON TOP, BOTTOM, AND / OR SIDES BEING TRANSLUCENT, WATERSOAKED, AND WILTED FOLLOWING 

% % % FREEZING. FREEZING INJURY PENETRATES FROM 1 TO 2 INCHES UP TO ENTIRE CONTENTS AND 

% % % INDICATES THAT IT OCCURRED AFTER PACKING. 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

GRADE: LOT A: U.S. NO. 1 

REMARKS: LOT B: RESTRICTED TO FREEZING ONLY AT APPLICANT’S REQUEST. APPLICANT STATES LOTS A AND B UNLOADED FROM ABOVE MENTIONED TRAILER. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

WARNING: Any person who knowingly shall falsely I, the undersigned, a duly authorized inspector of the United States Department of Agriculture, do hereby certify that at the request of the applicant and on ESTIMATED TOTAL make, issue, alter, forge, or counterfeit this certificate the date indicated, samples of the herein described product were inspected and the quality and/or condition as shown by said samples were as herein stated. 

or participate in any such actions, is subject to a fine Inspector’s Signature: Market Office: of not more than $1,000 or imprisonment for not more $$$$ than one year, or both. Inspector’s Signature MARKET CITY, STATE 
SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 81 of 112 

Example # 12: Mixed Fruit & Vegetables – Freezing 

CARRIER or LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

Applicant: 

PRODUCE BROKERAGE, INC. 

U.S. U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE 

T 3 1 0 7 T X INSPECTION CERTIFICATE L O Address: 

ANYWHERE, OH PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

M - Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional Lot ID: Shipper: 

INSPECTOR 

Carrier Type / Name: Address: 

SOMEWHERE, CA 

Inspection Started: 

MECH. REFRIG. TRAILER m m d d y y hour min. A/P 

Refrigeration Unit: 

☒ On ☐ Off 

Doors: 

☐ Open ☒ Closed 

Insp. Site: 

APPLICANT’S WAREHOUSE 1 1 2 2 1 3 0 1 4 5 P M 

LOT TEMPERATURES Product: Brand/Markings: Origin Lot ID: Number of Containers: Insp 

count 

A: 27 to 38 oF MIXED FRUIT & VEGETABLES SEE BELOW C A 1255 CARTONS (SEE BELOW) Y 

B: to oF 

C: to oF 

D: to oF L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM OFFSIZE/DEFECTS OTHER 

% % % 200 CARTONS GREEN ONIONS “NIC PAK,” 200 CARTONS CANTALOUPS “BIG SMILE,” 200 CARTONS GREEN LEAF LETTUCE “FRESH 

% % % PAK,” 200 CARTONS RED LEAF LETTUCE “FRESH PAK,” 100 CARTONS BROCCOLI “GREEN BAY,” 100 CARTONS CAULIFLOWER “RED 

% % % BOY,” 125 CARTONS ENDIVE “SNOW PAK,” 130 CARTONS ROMAINE “YA HOO.” 

% % % 

% % % FREEZING STATEMENT: 

% % % IN ALL TOP LAYER CARTONS AND MANY TO MOST CARTONS IN UPPER TWO TO THREE LAYERS FROM TOP, CONTENTS ARE 

% % % FROZEN, EXTENDING INTO CARTONS FROM EXPOSED TOPS, SIDES, OR ENDS OF CARTONS 1 TO 6 INCHES, SO LOCATED 

% % % AS TO INDICATE FREEZING OCCURRED IN TRAILER. 

% % % 

% % % TEMPERATURES: 

% % % AT REAR DOORS: TOP LAYER 27 oF, THIRD LAYER FROM TOP 29 oF, MIDDLE LAYER 33 oF, FLOOR LAYER 34 oF 

% % % MIDDLE OF LOAD: TOP LAYER 28 oF, THIRD LAYER FROM TOP 30 oF, MIDDLE LAYER 36 oF, FLOOR LAYER 38 oF 

% % % AT TRAILER NOSE: TOP LAYER 28 oF, THIRD LAYER FROM TOP 29 oF, MIDDLE LAYER 34 oF, FLOOR LAYER 36 oF 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

GRADE: 

EXAMPLE # 12 LOT 1098 PRODUCE SHIPPER, INC 

REMARKS: RESTRICTED TO FREEZING ONLY AT APPLICANT’S REQUEST. INSPECTED DURING PROCESS OF UNLOADING. 

WARNING: Any person who knowingly shall falsely I, the undersigned, a duly authorized inspector of the United States Department of Agriculture, do hereby certify that at the request of the applicant and on ESTIMATED TOTAL make, issue, alter, forge, or counterfeit this certificate the date indicated, samples of the herein described product were inspected and the quality and/or condition as shown by said samples were as herein stated. 

or participate in any such actions, is subject to a fine Inspector’s Signature: Market Office: of not more than $1,000 or imprisonment for not more $ HOURLY than one year, or both. Inspector’s Signature MARKET CITY, STATE 
SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 82 of 112 

Example # 13: Condition of Load and Containers 

CARRIER or LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

Applicant: 

URBAN BUYER, INC. 

U.S. U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE 

T A 5 7 6 8 3 F L INSPECTION CERTIFICATE L O Address: 

SOMEWHERE, ME PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

M - Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional Lot ID: Shipper: 

Carrier Type / Name: Address: 

ANY WHERE, FL 

Inspection Started: 

MECH. REFRIG. TRAILER m m d d y y hour min. A/P 

Refrigeration Unit: 

☒ On ☐ Off 

Doors: 

☐ Open ☒ Closed 

Insp. Site: 

APPLICANT’S WAREHOUSE 1 2 2 9 1 3 0 1 3 5 P M 

LOT TEMPERATURES Product: Brand/Markings: Origin Lot ID: Number of Containers: Insp 

count 

A: 36 to 40 oF ORANGES “SUNSMILE” NAVEL, 80 SIZE F L USDA-FL-XXXXXX 500 CARTONS Y

B: 35 to 39 oF STRAWBERRIES “HAPPYFACE” 8-1 LB CLAMSHELLS F L 1000 FLATS Y

C: to oF 

D: to oF L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM OFFSIZE/DEFECTS OTHER 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

INSPECTOR 

A. 06 % 00 % 00 %

01 % 00 % 00 %

03 % 03 % 03 %

10 % 03 % 03 %

B. 02 % 00 % %

42 % 30 % %

04 % 04 % %

48 % 34 % %

PO 39862 CITRUS HARVEST CO. 

QUALITY – CAKED MELANOSE, SCARS (0 TO 12%) 

SKIN BREAKDOWN 

DECAY (0 TO 15%) 

CHECKSUM 

QUALITY – MISSING CALYXES 

BRUISING (15 TO 100%) 

DECAY (0 TO 10%) 

CHECKSUM 

EXAMPLE # 13 

LOT A: DECAY IS IN EARLY STAGES. 

LOT B: 1 TO 2 INCHES IN DIAMETER. 

NO UNDERSIZE. 

CALYXES LIGHT GREEN COLOR. 

MOSTLY FAIRLY BRIGHT, SOME BRIGHT. 

DECAY IS IN EARLY STAGES. 

HEAVIEST AMOUNT OF BRUISING FOUND IN 

% % % CRUSHED FLATS. 

% % % CONDITION OF LOAD AND CONTAINERS: 

% % % LOT A: ON TWO PALLETS NEAREST REAR DOORS, ALL CARTONS ARE SHIFTED TOWARD REAR DOOR FROM 2 INCHES 

% % % IN FLOOR LAYER CARTONS TO 2-1/2 FEET IN TOP LAYER CARTONS WITH SOME TOP LAYER CARTONS ON FLOOR 

% % % WITH CONTENTS SPILLED. 

% % % LOT B: ON ALL PALLETS, ALL FLATS ARE SHIFTED TO THE LEFT TOWARDS TRAILER SIDEWALL FROM 2 INCHES IN 

% % % FLOOR LAYER FLATS TO 2 FEET IN TOP LAYER FLATS, CAUSING SOME TO MANY OF THE CONTENTS ON BOTTOM THREE 

% % % LAYERS TO BE CRUSHED INWARDS FROM 1 TO 2 INCHES. 

GRADE: LOT A: FAILS TO GRADE U.S. NO. 1 ACCOUNT CONDITION IN SOME SAMPLES. LOT B: FAILS TO GRADE U.S. NO. 1 ACCOUNT CONDITION. 

REMARKS: LOTS A AND B: INSPECTED DURING PROCESS OF UNLOADING. 

WARNING: Any person who knowingly shall falsely I, the undersigned, a duly authorized inspector of the United States Department of Agriculture, do hereby certify that at the request of the applicant and on ESTIMATED TOTAL make, issue, alter, forge, or counterfeit this certificate the date indicated, samples of the herein described product were inspected and the quality and/or condition as shown by said samples were as herein stated. 

or participate in any such actions, is subject to a fine Inspector’s Signature: Market Office: of not more than $1,000 or imprisonment for not more $$$$ than one year, or both. Inspector’s Signature MARKET CITY, STATE 
SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 83 of 112 

Example # 14: Net Weight 

CARRIER or LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

Applicant: 

CHAIN STORES, INC. 

U.S. U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE 

B / L 4 9 6 6 3 INSPECTION CERTIFICATE U L Address: 

ANYWHERE, ID PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

M - Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional Lot ID: Shipper: 

PRODUCE SHIPPERS, INC. EXAMPLE # 14 BILL OF LADING 

Carrier Type / Name: Address: 

SOMEWHERE, MA 

Inspection Started: 

m m d d y y hour min. A/P 

Refrigeration Unit: 

☐ On ☐ Off 

Doors: 

☐ Open ☐ Closed 

Insp. Site: 

APPLICANT’S WAREHOUSE 0 3 2 6 1 3 0 1 1 0 P M 

LOT TEMPERATURES Product: Brand/Markings: Origin Lot ID: Number of Containers: Insp 

count 

A: 45 to 48 oF SWEETPOTATOES “SWEETY’S” NET WT. 40 LBS C A 98 CARTONS Y

B: 45 to 48 oF POTATOES, RUSSET “RUDS SPUDS” NET WT 50 LBS I D 200 CARTONS Y

C: to oF 

D: to oF L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM OFFSIZE/DEFECTS OTHER 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A. 02 % 00 

25 % 20 

07 % 00 

04 % 04 

B. 

% % % LOT

38 % 24 

 A: DIAMETER 2 TO 3-1/2, 

NET WEIGHT: MOSTLY 2-1/2 TO 3 INCHES 

PACKAGES MARKED “50 LBS NET WT,” AVERAGE TARE 3.10 POUNDS, LENGTH: 4 TO 9, 

REASONABLE SHORTAGE LIMIT 48.00 POUNDS. NET WEGHT RANGES FROM MOSTLY 6 TO 8 INCHES. 

44.00 TO 49.00 POUNDS, AVERAGE NET WEIGHT 46.50 POUNDS WITH 96% OF WEIGHT: 8 TO 20, 

SAMPLE UNITS BELOW REASONABLE SHORTAGE LIMIT. MOSTLY 12 TO 18 OUNCES. 

NO OFFSIZE. 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

QUALITY – GROWTH CRACKS, OLD CUTS 

SUNKEN DISCOLORED AREAS (10 TO 33%) 

SURFACE DISCOLORATION (5 TO 10%) 

SOFT ROT (0 TO 7%) 

CHECKSUM 

LOT A: DISCOLORATION IS DARK 

BROWN TO BLACK IN COLOR. 

SOFT ROT: MOSTLY EARLY, SOME 

ADVANCED STAGES. 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% 

GRADE: LOT A: FAILS TO GRADE U.S. NO. 1 ACCOUNT CONDITION. 

LOT B: FAILS TO MEET MARKED WEIGHT ACCOUNT OF SAMPLE UNITS AVERAGE BELOW MARKED WEIGHT. 

REMARKS: LOT B: RESTRICTED TO NET WEIGHT ONLY, DETERMINED AND REPORTED AT APPLICANT’S REQUEST. 

WARNING: Any person who knowingly shall falsely I, the undersigned, a duly authorized inspector of the United States Department of Agriculture, do hereby certify that at the request of the applicant and on ESTIMATED TOTAL make, issue, alter, forge, or counterfeit this certificate the date indicated, samples of the herein described product were inspected and the quality and/or condition as shown by said samples were as herein stated. 

or participate in any such actions, is subject to a fine Inspector’s Signature: Market Office: of not more than $1,000 or imprisonment for not more CARLOT AND than one year, or both. Inspector’s Signature MARKET CITY, STATE HOURLY RATE 
SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 84 of 112 

Example # 15: Radishes – Pack Ice, Fails in Some Samples 

CARRIER or LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

Applicant: 

PRODUCE TOWN, INC. 

U.S. U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE 

L O T 2 3 9 INSPECTION CERTIFICATE U L Address: 

ANYWHERE, PA PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

M - Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional Lot ID: Shipper: 

CRUNCHY VEG. CO. EXAMPLE # 15 APPLICANT 

Carrier Type / Name: Address: 

SOMEWHERE, CA 

Inspection Started: 

m m d d y y hour min. A/P 

Refrigeration Unit: 

☐ On ☐ Off 

Doors: 

☐ Open ☐ Closed 

Insp. Site: 

APPLICANT’S STORE 1 1 2 0 1 3 0 9 3 5 A M 

LOT TEMPERATURES Product: Brand/Markings: Origin Lot ID: Number of Containers: Insp 

count 

A: 34 to 40 oF BUNCHED RADISHES “RED TOP” 24 BUNCHES C A 300 CARTONS Y

B: 32 to 34 oF TOPPED RADISHES “RED TOP” 14 – 1 LB BAGS C A 100 CARTONS Y

C: to oF 

D: to oF L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM OFFSIZE/DEFECTS OTHER 

A. 01 % 00 % % QUALITY – CUTS LOT A: 

15 % 05 % % YELLOW DISCOLORATION – TOPS (4 TO 21%) GENERALLY NO PACK ICE PRESENT. 

11 % 04 % % WATERSOAKED TOPS (8 TO 17 %) SLACK 3 TO 4 INCHES FROM CARTON TOP. 

02 % 00 % % BLACK DISCOLORATION – ROOTS SOME ROOTS MEDIUM, MOSTLY LARGE, SOME. 

03 % 03 % % DECAY – TOPS (0 TO 8%), EARLY STAGES VERY LARGE. NO UNDERSIZE. 

00 % 00 % % DECAY 

32 % 12 % % CHECKSUM 

% % % 

B. 01 % 00 % % QUALITY – CUTS 

08 % 02 % % AIR CRACKS (4 TO 20%) LOT B: 

00 % 00 % % DECAY ROOTS LARGE, SOME VERY LARGE. 

09 % 02 % % CHECKSUM NO UNDERSIZE. 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

GRADE: LOT A: FAILS TO GRADE U.S. NO. 1 ACCOUNT CONDITION. LOT B: FAILS TO GRADE U.S. NO. 1 ACCOUNT CONDITION IN SOME SAMPLES. 

REMARKS: 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

WARNING: Any person who knowingly shall falsely 

make, issue, alter, forge, or counterfeit this certificate 

or participate in any such actions, is subject to a fine 

of not more than $1,000 or imprisonment for not more 

than one year, or both. 

I, the undersigned, a duly authorized inspector of the United States Department of Agriculture, do hereby certify that at the request of the applicant and on ESTIMATED TOTAL the date indicated, samples of the herein described product were inspected and the quality and/or condition as shown by said samples were as herein stated. 

Inspector’s Signature: Market Office: 

$$$$ Inspector’s Signature MARKET CITY, STATE 
SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 85 of 112 

Example # 16: Temperatures 

CARRIER or LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

Applicant: 

PRODUCE DEALER, INC. 

U.S. U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE 

T L 4 7 5 W 8 G A INSPECTION CERTIFICATE L O Address: 

ANYWHERE, NJ PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

M - Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional Lot ID: Shipper: EXAMPLE # 16 INSPECTOR B/L 026384 PRODUCE SHIPPER, INC. 

Carrier Type / Name: Address: 

SALINAS, CA 

Inspection Started: 

MECHANICAL REFRIGERATED TRAILER m m d d y y hour min. A/P 

Refrigeration Unit: 

 On ☐ Off 

Doors: 

☐ Open  Closed 

Insp. Site: 

APPLICANT’S WAREHOUSE 1 1 1 9 1 3 0 1 0 0 P M 

LOT TEMPERATURES Product: Brand/Markings: Origin Lot ID: Number of Containers: Insp 

count 

A: 41 to 64 oF ROMAINE “ROVER RANCH” 2 DOZEN C A 420 CARTONS Y

B: 43 to 66 oF CAULIFLOWER “ROVER RANCH” 12 HEADS C A 224 CARTONS Y

C: 36 to 48 oF BROCCOLI “ROVER RANCH” 14 BUNCHES C A 96 CARTONS Y

D: to oF L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM OFFSIZE/DEFECTS OTHER 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

% % % ALL PRODUCT ON BANDED PALLETS LOADED TO APPROXIMATELY 3/4 LENGTH OF TRAILER 

% % % ROMAINE IN FRONT 1/2 OF TRAILER ON 12 PALLETS, 7 LAYERS PER PALLET; 

% % % CAULIFLOWER NEAR 1/2 LENGTH OF TRAILER ON 4 PALLETS, 14 LAYERS PER PALLET 

% % % BROCCOLI AT 3/4 LENGTH OF TRAILER ON 2 PALLETS, 6 LAYERS PER PALLET. 

% % % 

% % % TEMPERATURES: 

% % % LOT A – FRONT OF TRAILER: TOP LAYER 62 TO 64 oF, BOTTOM LAYER 52 oF, 4TH LAYER 42 oF 

% % % 1/4 LENGTH OF TRAILER: TOP LAYER 62 oF, 4TH LAYER 41 oF 

% % % 

% % % LOT B – 1/2 LENGTH OF TRAILER: TOP LAYER 66 oF, BOTTOM LAYER 51 oF, 8TH LAYER 43 oF 

% % % 

% % % LOT C – 3/4 LENGTH OF TRAILER: TOP LAYER 48 oF, BOTTOM LAYER 44 oF, 4TH LAYER 36 oF 

% % % MOST CARTONS SMALL TO GOOD AMOUNT OF PACK ICE, SOME CARTONS NO PACK 

% % % ICE. 

% % % 

% % % 

GRADE: 

REMARKS: RESTRICTED TO TEMPERATURE ONLY AT APPLICANT’S REQUEST. INSPECTED DURING PROCESS OF UNLOADING. 

WARNING: Any person who knowingly shall falsely 

make, issue, alter, forge, or counterfeit this certificate 

or participate in any such actions, is subject to a fine 

of not more than $1,000 or imprisonment for not more 

than one year, or both. 

I, the undersigned, a duly authorized inspector of the United States Department of Agriculture, do hereby certify that at the request of the applicant and on ESTIMATED TOTAL the date indicated, samples of the herein described product were inspected and the quality and/or condition as shown by said samples were as herein stated. 

Inspector’s Signature: Market Office: 

$ Hourly Rate Inspector’s Signature MARKET CITY, STATE 
SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 86 of 112 

Example # 17: Potatoes – Appeal Reversed 

CARRIER or LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

Applicant: 

PRODUCE DEALER, INC. 

U.S. U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE 

P 5 1 0 0 5 M E INSPECTION CERTIFICATE U L Address: 

ANYWHERE, ID PREFIX NUMBER STATE APPEAL 

Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional Lot ID: Shipper: M - EXAMPLE # 17 PO 3156 PRODUCE SHIPPER, INC. 

Carrier Type / Name: Address: 

SOMEWHERE, PA 

Inspection Started: 

m m d d y y hour min. A/P 

Refrigeration Unit: 

☐ On ☐ Off 

Doors: 

☐ Open ☐ Closed 

Insp. Site: 

APPLICANT’S WAREHOUSE 0 9 2 0 1 3 0 8 0 0 A M 

LOT TEMPERATURES Product: Brand/Markings: Origin Lot ID: Number of Containers: Insp 

count 

A: to 

40 26 oF POTATOES, RUSSET “KING SPUD” 70 SIZE, 50 LBS. I D USDA/ID-XXXXXXX 500 CARTONS Y

B: to oF 

C: to oF 

D: to oF L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM OFFSIZE/DEFECTS OTHER 

09 % 00 % % INTERNAL QUALITY – HOLLOW HEART (3 TO 15%) MEET SIZE AS MARKED. 

03 % 00 % % EXTERNAL QUALITY – GROWTH CRACKS, OLD BRUISES, CUTS 

06 % 01 % % DRY ROT (2 TO 8%) 

02 % 02 % % SOFT ROT 

20 % 03 % % CHECKSUM 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % THIS CERTIFICATE COVERS AN APPEAL INSPECTION OF ABOVE LOT, WHICH WAS 

% % % PREVIOUSLY INSPECTED AND REPORTED ON FEDERAL CERTIFICATE 

% % % M-XXXXXX, DATED SEPTEMBER 19, 2013, WHICH IS REVERSED AS TO 

% % % QUALITY AND GRADE. 

% % % 

% % % 

GRADE: FAILS TO GRADE U.S. NO. 1, 70 SIZE ACCOUNT QUALITY. 

REMARKS: SEE FEDERAL CERTIFICATE M-XXXXXX-6 FOR REMAINDER OF LOAD (300 CARTONS RED POTATOES). 

Tip: No charge (fee) 

for inspection. 

However, charge any 

mileage, overtime, tolls, 

Etc. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I, the undersigned, a duly authorized inspector of the United States Department of Agriculture, do hereby certify that at the request of the applicant and on ESTIMATED TOTAL the date indicated, samples of the herein described product were inspected and the quality and/or condition as shown by said samples were as herein stated. 

Inspector’s Signature: Market Office: 

SEE M-XXXXXX Inspector’s Signature BRONX, NY 

MANIFEST 

WARNING: Any person who knowingly shall falsely 

make, issue, alter, forge, or counterfeit this certificate 

or participate in any such actions, is subject to a fine 

of not more than $1,000 or imprisonment for not more 

than one year, or both. 
SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 87 of 112 

Example # 18: Potatoes – Appeal Sustained 

CARRIER or LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

Applicant: 

PRODUCE DEALER, INC. 

U.S. U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE 

P 5 1 0 0 5 M E INSPECTION CERTIFICATE U L Address: 

ANYWHERE, WA PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

M - APPEAL 

Carrier Type / Name: Address: 

SOMEWHERE, NY 

Inspection Started: 

m m d d y y hour min. A/P 

Refrigeration Unit: 

☐ On ☐ Off 

Doors: 

☐ Open ☐ Closed 

Insp. Site: 

APPLICANT’S WAREHOUSE 0 9 2 0 1 3 0 7 0 0 A M 

LOT TEMPERATURES Product: Brand/Markings: Origin Lot ID: Number of Containers: Insp 

count 

A: 45 to 47 oF POTATOES, ROUND RED “RED GODDESS” 50 LBS. W A LOT NO. 222 300 CARTONS Y

B: to oF 

C: to oF 

D: to oF L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM OFFSIZE/DEFECTS OTHER 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: 

MANIFEST 

04 % 00 

10 % 06 

02 % 02 

16 % 08 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% % 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

Additional Lot ID: Shipper: 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

PO 3156 PRODUCE SHIPPER, INC. 

QUALITY – CUTS 

BROWN SURFACE DISCOLORATION (7 TO 20%) 

SOFT ROT, MODERATE STAGES 

CHECKSUM 

EXAMPLE # 18 

SIZE: 2 TO 3-1/2 INCHES, MOSTLY 

2-1/2 TO 3 INCHES IN DIAMETER. 

NO UNDERSIZE. 

THIS CERTIFICATE COVERS 

AN APPEAL INSPECTION, WHICH 

WAS PREVIOUSLY CERTIFIED ON 

FEDERAL CERTIFICATE NUMBER 

T-XXXXXX-X, DATED SEPTEMBER 19, 

2013, WHICH IS SUSTAINED AS TO 

QUALITY, CONDITION, AND GRADE. 

GRADE: FAILS TO GRADE U.S. NO. 1 ACCOUNT CONDITION. 

REMARKS: SEE FEDERAL CERTIFICATE T-XXXXXX-7 FOR REMAINDER OF LOAD (500 CARTONS OF RUSSET POTATOES). 

WARNING: Any person who knowingly shall falsely I, the undersigned, a duly authorized inspector of the United States Department of Agriculture, do hereby certify that at the request of the applicant and on ESTIMATED TOTAL make, issue, alter, forge, or counterfeit this certificate the date indicated, samples of the herein described product were inspected and the quality and/or condition as shown by said samples were as herein stated. 

or participate in any such actions, is subject to a fine Inspector’s Signature: Market Office: of not more than $1,000 or imprisonment for not more $$$$ than one year, or both. Inspector’s Signature BRONX, NY 
SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 88 of 112 

Example # 19: Pistachios 

CARRIER or LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

Applicant: 

NANCY’S NUT HUT 

U.S. U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE 

N O I D INSPECTION CERTIFICATE L I Address: 

SOMEWHERE, NY PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

M - Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional Lot ID: Shipper: 

TREE NUT FARMS EXAMPLE # 19 

Carrier Type / Name: Address: 

ANYWHERE, CA 

Inspection Started: 

m m d d y y hour min. A/P 

Refrigeration Unit: 

☐ On ☐ Off 

Doors: 

☐ Open ☐ Closed 

Insp. Site: 

APPLICANT’S WAREHOUSE 0 9 0 9 1 3 1 0 1 0 A M 

LOT TEMPERATURES Product: Brand/Markings: Origin Lot ID: Number of Containers: Insp 

count 

A: to oF PISTACHIOS, IN SHELL “NO BRAND” NET WT. 25 LBS C A ROASTED & SALTED 400 CARTONS Y

B: to oF 

C: to oF 

D: to oF L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM OFFSIZE/DEFECTS OTHER 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1.24 

0.80 

0.52 

4.02 

2.47 

0.44 

6.22 

1.00 

1.05 

0.83 

2.05 

1.08 

0.56 

1.08 

GRADE: 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

U.S. NO. 1 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

NON-SPLIT AND NOT SPLIT ON SUTURE COUNT PER OUNCE AVERAGES 23.5 

NON-SPLIT INCLUDED IN ABOVE 

ADHERING HULL MATERIAL 

STAINED EXTERNAL DEFECTS 

DARK STAINED INCLUDED IN ABOVE 500 GRAM SAMPLE 

DAMAGE BY OTHER MEANS 

TOTAL EXTERNAL DEFECTS 

DAMAGE 

SERIOUS DAMAGE – RANCID, INSECT INTERNAL DEFECTS 

INSECT DAMAGE INCLUDED IN ABOVE 250 GRAM SAMPLE 

TOTAL INTERNAL DEFECTS 

SHELL PIECES AND BLANKS 

BLANKS INCLUDED IN ABOVE OTHER DEFECTS 

TOTAL OTHER DEFECTS 250 GRAM SAMPLE 

REMARKS: 

WARNING: Any person who knowingly shall falsely I, the undersigned, a duly authorized inspector of the United States Department of Agriculture, do hereby certify that at the request of the applicant and on ESTIMATED TOTAL make, issue, alter, forge, or counterfeit this certificate the date indicated, samples of the herein described product were inspected and the quality and/or condition as shown by said samples were as herein stated. 

or participate in any such actions, is subject to a fine Inspector’s Signature: Market Office: of not more than $1,000 or imprisonment for not more $$$$ than one year, or both. Inspector’s Signature MARKET CITY, STATE 
SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 89 of 112 

Example # 20: Brazil Nuts 

CARRIER or LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

Applicant: 

JANE’S NUT HOUSE 

U.S. U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE 

S H I P INSPECTION CERTIFICATE U L Address: 

ANYWHERE, IN PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

M - Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional Lot ID: Shipper: EXAMPLE # 20 APPLICANT LOT 246 BRAZIL NUTS, INC. 

Carrier Type / Name: Address: 

MOBILE, AL 

Inspection Started: 

SS SOUTH AMERICA m m d d y y hour min. A/P 

Refrigeration Unit: 

☐ On ☐ Off 

Doors: 

☐ Open ☐ Closed 

Insp. Site: 

APPLICANT’S WAREHOUSE 0 9 1 2 1 3 0 9 3 0 A M 

LOT TEMPERATURES Product: Brand/Markings: Origin Lot ID: Number of Containers: Insp 

count 

A: to oF BRAZIL NUTS (IN SHELL) “ABC” NET WT. 112 LBS. B Z CLASS TIPO 2 2,000 SACKS Y

B: to oF 

C: to oF 

D: to oF L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM OFFSIZE/DEFECTS OTHER 

02.0 % 01.0 % % SHELL DEFECTS AVERAGE 49 NUTS PER POUND. 

09.3 % 08.3 % % KERNEL DEFECTS 10 SMALLEST NUTS IN 100 NUT 

11.3 % 09.3 % % CHECKSUM SAMPLE WEIGH 6% OR MORE 

% % % OF TOTAL SAMPLE WEIGHT. 

% % % SHELL DEFECTS CONSIST OF: 

% % % 1.0% SERIOUS DAMAGE BY OIL STAIN 

% % % 1.0% DAMAGE BY OIL STAIN 

% % % KERNEL DEFECTS CONSIST OF: 

% % % 7.3% SERIOUS DAMAGE BY RANCIDITY, MOLD, LIVE INSECTS, AND DECAY 

% % % 1.0% SERIOUS DAMAGE BY BLANKS 

% % % 1.0% DAMAGE BY DISCOLORATION 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

GRADE: FAILS TO GRADE U.S. NO. 1 LARGE ACCOUNT KERNEL DEFECTS. LOT CONTAINS 91% U.S. NO. 1 KERNEL QUALITY. 

REMARKS: PERCENTAGE OF U.S. NO. 1 KERNEL QUALITY REPORTED AT APPLICANT’S REQUEST. 

WARNING: Any person who knowingly shall falsely 

make, issue, alter, forge, or counterfeit this certificate 

or participate in any such actions, is subject to a fine 

of not more than $1,000 or imprisonment for not more 

than one year, or both. 

I, the undersigned, a duly authorized inspector of the United States Department of Agriculture, do hereby certify that at the request of the applicant and on 

the date indicated, samples of the herein described product were inspected and the quality and/or condition as shown by said samples were as herein stated. ESTIMATED TOTAL 

Inspector’s Signature: Market Office: 

$ Hourly Rate Inspector’s Signature MARKET CITY, STATE 

Tip: Since standards only 

allow 1/2 of 1% for 

serious damage by live 

insects, carry percentage 

out to one decimal place 

(tenths). 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 90 of 112 

Example # 21: Avocados – 8e Import 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CARRIER or LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

Applicant: 

HR AVOCADOS 

U.S. U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE 

S M L U 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 INSPECTION CERTIFICATE L O Address: 

PHILADELPHIA, PA PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

M - Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional Lot ID: Shipper: 

INSPECTOR KAM AIR IMPORT EXAMPLE # 21

Carrier Type / Name: Address: 

PHILADELPHIA, PA 

Inspection Started: 

MECHANICAL REFRIGERATED CONTAINER m m d d y y hour min. A/P 

Refrigeration Unit: 

☒ On ☐ Off 

Doors: 

☒ Open ☐ Closed 

Insp. Site: 

APPLICANT’S STORE 1 1 0 1 1 3 0 8 3 0 A M 

LOT TEMPERATURES Product: Brand/Markings: Origin Lot ID: Number of Containers: Insp 

count 

A: 41 to 45 oF AVOCADOS “AVOCADO KING” SEMIL 34 D R 1300 CARTONS Y

B: to oF NET WT 23 LBS 18, 20 COUNT 

C: to oF 

D: to oF L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM OFFSIZE/DEFECTS OTHER 

02 % 02 % 00 % QUALITY – SUNBURN SIZE: 16 TO 24 OUNCES IN WEIGHT 

01 % 01 % 00 % SUNKEN DISCOLORED AREAS 3-8/16 TO 4-8/16 INCHES IN DIAMETER. 

01 % 01 % 01 % DECAY (0 TO 2%), EARLY STAGES 

04 % 04 % 01 % CHECKSUM 

% % % GENERALLY HARD 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

GRADE: MEETS U.S. NO. 2. 

Tip: “AMAA of 1937” is an accepted 

abbreviation. The 8e statement and custom 

entry number may also be reported in 

“GRADE” (see Certificate Example 21). 

REMARKS: MEETS US IMPORT REQUIREMENTS UNDER SECTION 8E OF THE AMAA OF 1937, AS AMENDED. CUSTOMS ENTRY # 123456789-01. 

INSPECTION BASED ON U.S. GRADE STANDARDS FOR FLORIDA AVOCADOS AS PER IMPORT REQUIREMENTS. INSPECTED DURING PROCESS OF UNLOADING. 

WARNING: Any person who knowingly shall falsely 

make, issue, alter, forge, or counterfeit this certificate 

or participate in any such actions, is subject to a fine 

of not more than $1,000 or imprisonment for not more 

than one year, or both. 

I, the undersigned, a duly authorized inspector of the United States Department of Agriculture, do hereby certify that at the request of the applicant and on 

the date indicated, samples of the herein described product were inspected and the quality and/or condition as shown by said samples were as herein stated. 

Inspector’s Signature: Market Office: 

Inspector’s Signature MARKET CITY, STATE 

ESTIMATED TOTAL 

$$$$ 
SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 91 of 112 

Example # 22: Onions – 8e Import 

CARRIER or LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

Applicant: 

THE GREAT ONION CO. 

U.S. U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE 

S H I P INSPECTION CERTIFICATE U L Address: 

SOMEWHERE, PA PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

M - Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional Lot ID: Shipper: 

APPLICANT PO 6578 UNITED ONION, LTD. EXAMPLE # 22 

Carrier Type / Name: Address: 

LIMA, PERU 

Inspection Started: 

S/S AMERICAN STAR m m d d y y hour min. A/P 

Refrigeration Unit: 

☐ On ☐ Off 

Doors: 

☐ Open ☐ Closed 

Insp. Site: 

APPLICANT’S WAREHOUSE 0 4 1 2 1 3 0 7 3 0 A M 

LOT TEMPERATURES Product: Brand/Markings: Origin Lot ID: Number of Containers: Insp 

count 

A: 55 to 56 oF BGG ONIONS, YELLOW ‘YELLOW SUGAR” 50 LBS. P U 76 MM MINIMUM 1000 CARTONS Y

B: 55 to 58 oF BGG ONIONS, RED “RED SUGAR” 50 LBS. P U 50-82 MM 1000 CARTONS Y

C: to oF 

D: to oF L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM OFFSIZE/DEFECTS OTHER 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A. 03 

03 

07 

13 

% 

% 

% 

B. 03 

05 

08 

LOT A: 2-3/4 TO 4-1/2, MOSTLY 3-1/2 

TO 4 INCHES IN DIAMETER. 

UNDERSIZE WITHIN TOLERANCE. 

LOT B: 1-3/4 TO 3-1/2, MOSTLY 

2 TO 2-3/4 INCHES IN DIAMETER. 

OFFSIZE WITHIN TOLERANCE. 

LOTS A AND B: DECAY MOSTLY 

EARLY, SOME ADVANCED STAGES, 

AFFECTING NECKS AND 1 TO 2 

OUTER FLESHY SCALES. 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

00 

00 

07 

07 

00 

05 

05 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

QUALITY – SEEDSTEMS, CUTS 

BRUISING 

DECAY (0 TO 20%) 

CHECKSUM 

QUALITY – SEEDSTEMS, CUTS 

DECAY (0 TO 9%) 

CHECKSUM 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

GRADE: LOT A: FAILS TO GRADE U.S. NO. 1 LARGE, GRANEX-GRANO ACCOUNT CONDITION. FAILS TO MEET U.S. IMPORT REQUIREMENTS OF SECTION 8E OF THE AGRICULTURAL 

MARKETING AGREEMENT ACT OF 1937 AS AMENDED. LOT B: FAILS TO GRADE U.S. NO. 1 MEDIUM, GRANDEX-GRANDO ACCOUNT CONDITION. MEETS U.S. IMPORT REQUIREMENTS OF 

REMARKS: SECTION 8E OF THE AGRICULTURAL MARKETING AGREEMENT ACT OF 1937, AS AMENDED. LOTS A AND B: CUSTOMS ENTRY NO. XXXXXXXXX-XX. 

WARNING: Any person who knowingly shall falsely I, the undersigned, a duly authorized inspector of the United States Department of Agriculture, do hereby certify that at the request of the applicant and on ESTIMATED TOTAL make, issue, alter, forge, or counterfeit this certificate the date indicated, samples of the herein described product were inspected and the quality and/or condition as shown by said samples were as herein stated. 

or participate in any such actions, is subject to a fine Inspector’s Signature: Market Office: of not more than $1,000 or imprisonment for not more $$$$ than one year, or both. Inspector’s Signature MARKET CITY, STATE 
SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 92 of 112 

Example # 23: Commodity Procurement for Fresh Potatoes 

CARRIER or LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

Applicant: 

STATE POTATO GROWERS 

U.S. U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE 

S T 8 X 5 7 2 I L INSPECTION CERTIFICATE L O Address: 

SOMEWHERE, ME PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

M - Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional Lot ID: Shipper: 

INSPECTOR SEE REMARKS STATE POTATO GROWERS EXAMPLE # 23 

Carrier Type / Name: Address: 

SOMEWHERE, ME 

Inspection Started: 

MECHANICAL REFRIG. TRAILER m m d d y y hour min. A/P 

Refrigeration Unit: 

☒ On ☐ Off 

Doors: 

☐ Open ☒ Closed 

Insp. Site: 

AAA FOOD SERVICE, SOMEWHERE, PA 0 2 0 4 1 4 1 0 0 0 A M 

LOT TEMPERATURES Product: Brand/Markings: Origin Lot ID: Number of Containers: Insp 

count 

A: 44 to 48 oF POTATOES, ROUND WHITE “STATE QUALITY” U.S. NO. 1, WASHED, 50 LBS. M E 292235 019 600 BAGS Y

B: to oF 

C: to oF 

D: to oF L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM OFFSIZE/DEFECTS OTHER 

02 % 00 % % QUALITY – OLD CUTS, SCAB 1-7/8 TO 3 INCHES IN DIAMETER, OR 

14 % 05 % % INTERNAL BLACK SPOTS (8 TO 19%) 4 TO 12 OUNCES IN WEIGHT, WITH 

06 % 02 % % NUMEROUS DARK DISCOLORED SUNKEN / PITTED AREAS (3 TO 11%) 40% 2-1/2 INCHES IN DIAMETER OR 6 OUNCES 

01 % 00 % % INTERNAL VASCULAR DISCOLORATION IN WEIGHT, OR LARGER. 

00 % 00 % % SOFT ROT UNDER 2 INCHES IN DIAMETER WITHIN 

23 % 07 % % CHECKSUM TOLERANCE. 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

GRADE: FAILS TO GRADE U.S. NO. 1 SIZE A, 2 INCH OR 4 OUNCE MINIMUM, ACCOUNT CONDITION. 

REMARKS: FAILS TO MEET REQUIREMENTS OF SOLICITATION ______________________. PURCHASE ORDER NO. ___________________. SALES ORDER NO. ________________. 

SOLICITATION ITEM NO. _________________________. INSPECTED DURING THE PROCESS OF UNLOADING. 

WARNING: Any person who knowingly shall falsely I, the undersigned, a duly authorized inspector of the United States Department of Agriculture, do hereby certify that at the request of the applicant and on ESTIMATED TOTAL make, issue, alter, forge, or counterfeit this certificate the date indicated, samples of the herein described product were inspected and the quality and/or condition as shown by said samples were as herein stated. 

or participate in any such actions, is subject to a fine Inspector’s Signature: Market Office: of not more than $1,000 or imprisonment for not more $$$$ than one year, or both. Inspector’s Signature MARKET CITY, STATE 
SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 93 of 112 

Example # 24: Cantaloups – Mixed on Pallets, Soluble Solids 

CARRIER or LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

Applicant: 

RECEIVING, LLT 

U.S. U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE 

S I N 7 0 0 0 1 INSPECTION CERTIFICATE U L Address: 

ANYWHERE, MD PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

M - Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional Lot ID: Shipper: 

MANIFEST PO 3289 SHIPPING CO., INC. EXAMPLE # 24

Carrier Type / Name: Address: 

SOMEWHERE, CA 

Inspection Started: 

m m d d y y hour min. A/P 

Refrigeration Unit: 

☐ On ☐ Off 

Doors: 

☐ Open ☐ Closed 

Insp. Site: 

APPLICANT’S STORE 0 5 0 9 1 3 0 7 4 5 A M 

LOT TEMPERATURES Product: Brand/Markings: Origin Lot ID: Number of Containers: Insp 

count 

A: 36 to 40 oF CANTALOUPS “MADAME MELON” 12 COUNT C A LOT 12 1000 CARTONS Y

B: to oF CANTALOUPS ‘MISTER MELON” 18 COUNT LOT 14 (SEE REMARKS) 35 39 C A 

C: to oF 

D: to oF L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM OFFSIZE/DEFECTS OTHER 

A. 02 % 00 % % QUALITY – NOT WELL NETTED, SCARS LOT A: MOSTLY RIPE AND FIRM, SOME FIRM. 

12 % 07 % % SUNKEN DISCOLORED AREAS (4 TO 18%) GROUND COLOR MOSTLY YELLOW, 

10 % 05 % % BLACK SURFACE MOLD (5 TO 15%) SOME TURNING. 

03 % 00 % % LIQUID IN THE SEED CAVITY MEETS GOOD INTERNAL QUALITY. 

06 % 06 % % DECAY (0 TO 14%) DECAY IS MOSTLY EARLY, SOME 

33 % 18 % % CHECKSUM MODERATE STAGES. 

% % % 

B. 04 % 04 % % QUALITY – IMMATURE LOT B: GENERALLY FIRM, FEW HARD. 

01 % 01 % % SUNKEN DISCOLORED AREAS GROUND COLOR MOSTLY DARK 

00 % 00 % % DECAY GREEN, SOME LIGHT GREEN. 

05 % 05 % % CHECKSUM 

% % % 

% % % LOT A: SOLUBLE SOLIDS: 10.5%. REPORTED AT APPLICANT’S REQUEST. 

% % % LOT B: AVERAGE SOLUBLE SOLIDS: 8.4% 

% % % 

% % % 

GRADE: LOT A: FAILS TO GRADE U.S. NO.1 ACCOUNT CONDITION. LOT B: FAILS TO GRADE U.S. NO. 1 ACCOUNT INTERNAL QUALITY (SOLUBLE SOLIDS). 

REMARKS: BRANDS MIXED ON PALLETS; COUNT PER LOT NOT AVAILABLE. MOST CARTONS MARKED “MADAME MELON.” 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

WARNING: Any person who knowingly shall falsely I, the undersigned, a duly authorized inspector of the United States Department of Agriculture, do hereby certify that at the request of the applicant and on ESTIMATED TOTAL make, issue, alter, forge, or counterfeit this certificate the date indicated, samples of the herein described product were inspected and the quality and/or condition as shown by said samples were as herein stated. 

or participate in any such actions, is subject to a fine Inspector’s Signature: Market Office: of not more than $1,000 or imprisonment for not more $$$$ than one year, or both. Inspector’s Signature MARKET CITY, STATE 
SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 94 of 112 

Example # 25: Mixed Commodities 

CARRIER or LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

Applicant: 

NEW ENGLAND FRUIT CO. 

U.S. U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE 

P O 4 9 2 5 INSPECTION CERTIFICATE U L Address: 

ANYWHERE, NH PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

M - Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional Lot ID: Shipper: 

APPLICANT LOT 999 ANNY’S FARMS, LLT EXAMPLE # 25

Carrier Type / Name: Address: 

SOMEWHERE, CA 

Inspection Started: 

m m d d y y hour min. A/P 

Refrigeration Unit: 

☐ On ☐ Off 

Doors: 

☐ Open ☐ Closed 

Insp. Site: 

APPLICANT’S STORE 1 1 2 5 1 3 0 3 0 0 P M 

LOT TEMPERATURES Product: Brand/Markings: Origin Lot ID: Number of Containers: Insp 

count 

A: 40 to 44 oF MIXED COMMODITIES “ANNY’S FRUIT BOX” US EX FANCY APPLES, US FANCY ORANGES, C A RED DEL & GRANNY 375 CARTONS Y

B: to oF US NO. 1 PEARS, NET WT. 20 LBS. SMITH APPLES, 

C: to oF ANJOU PEARS, AND 

D: to oF NAVEL ORANGES 

L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM OFFSIZE/DEFECTS OTHER 

00 % 00 % 00 % QUALITY APPLES AND PEARS GENERALLY 

14 % 14 % 05 % SKIN BREAKDOWN – AFFECTING ORANGES (10 TO 25%) FIRM, FEW FIRM RIPE. 

05 % 02 % 00 % BRUISING – AFFECTING APPLES AND PEARS 

02 % 02 % 00 % DARK SURFACE DISCOLORATION – AFFECTING PEARS PEARS LIGHT GREEN GROUND 

00 % 00 % 00 % DECAY COLOR. 

21 % 18 % 05 % CHECKSUM 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

GRADE: FAILS TO GRADE U.S. MIXED ACCOUNT CONDITION. 

REMARKS: 

Tip: To accommodate the US Ex Fancy grade, 

need three columns (injury, damage, and serious 

damage). In first (Average Defects) column, report 

injury for apples and damage for oranges and 

pears. In second column, report all damage. In 

third column, report all serious damage. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

WARNING: Any person who knowingly shall falsely I, the undersigned, a duly authorized inspector of the United States Department of Agriculture, do hereby certify that at the request of the applicant and on ESTIMATED TOTAL make, issue, alter, forge, or counterfeit this certificate the date indicated, samples of the herein described product were inspected and the quality and/or condition as shown by said samples were as herein stated. 

or participate in any such actions, is subject to a fine Inspector’s Signature: Market Office: of not more than $1,000 or imprisonment for not more $$$$ than one year, or both. Inspector’s Signature MARKET CITY, STATE 
SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 95 of 112 

Example # 26: Potatoes – Bulk Load 

CARRIER or LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

Applicant: 

POTATO BUYER, INC. 

U.S. U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE 

X X 1 2 3 4 M N INSPECTION CERTIFICATE L O Address: 

ANYWHERE, PA PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

M - Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional Lot ID: Shipper: 

INSPECTOR LOT 444 POTATO SELLER, INC. EXAMPLE # 26

Carrier Type / Name: Address: 

SOMEWHERE, MN 

Inspection Started: 

MECHANICAL REFRIG. TRAILER m m d d y y hour min. A/P 

Refrigeration Unit: 

☐ On ☒ Off 

Doors: 

☒ Open ☐ Closed 

Insp. Site: 

APPLICANT’S WAREHOUSE 1 1 0 4 1 3 0 2 1 0 P M 

LOT TEMPERATURES Product: Brand/Markings: Origin Lot ID: Number of Containers: Insp 

count 

A: 42 to 47 oF POTATOES, ROUND WHITE “NO MARKS” M N BULK LOAD 20,000 LBS. N

B: to oF 

C: to oF 

D: to oF L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM OFFSIZE/DEFECTS OTHER 

06 % 00 % % QUALITY – OLD CUTS, OLD BRUISES, RHIZOCTONIA SIZE: 1-3/4 TO 3 INCHES, MOSTLY 

16 % 04 % % SILVER SCURF 2 TO 2-1/2 INCHES IN DIAMETER 

11 % 05 % % INTERNAL BLACK SPOTS 

05 % 05 % % SOFT ROT – MOSTLY EARLY, SOME ADVANCED STAGES UNDERSIZE WITHIN TOLERANCE 

38 % 14 % % CHECKSUM 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % SAMPLE UNIT CONSISTS OF 8 REPRESENTATIVE SUB-SAMPLES TAKEN RANDOMLY THROUGHOUT THE LOAD. 

% % % REPORTED AT APPLICANT’S REQUEST. 

% % % 

% % % 

GRADE: FAILS TO GRADE U.S. NO. 1 ACCOUNT CONDITION. 

REMARKS: RESTRICTED TO UPPER 18 INCHES OF LOAD. 

Tip: On bulk loads, do not range 

defects, since there is only one sample 

(which consists of subsamples). 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

WARNING: Any person who knowingly shall falsely I, the undersigned, a duly authorized inspector of the United States Department of Agriculture, do hereby certify that at the request of the applicant and on ESTIMATED TOTAL make, issue, alter, forge, or counterfeit this certificate the date indicated, samples of the herein described product were inspected and the quality and/or condition as shown by said samples were as herein stated. 

or participate in any such actions, is subject to a fine Inspector’s Signature: Market Office: of not more than $1,000 or imprisonment for not more $$$$ than one year, or both. Inspector’s Signature MARKET CITY, STATE 
SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 96 of 112 

Example # 27: Potatoes – Mixed, Sprouts 

CARRIER or LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

Applicant: 

PATTY’S POTATO PAD 

U.S. U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE 

P O 1 0 5 0 2 1 INSPECTION CERTIFICATE U L Address: 

ANYWHERE, PA PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

M - Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional Lot ID: Shipper: 

APPLICANT SPUDMANIA, LLC EXAMPLE # 27

Carrier Type / Name: Address: 

SOMEWHERE, ID 

Inspection Started: 

m m d d y y hour min. A/P 

Refrigeration Unit: 

☐ On ☐ Off 

Doors: 

☐ Open ☐ Closed 

Insp. Site: 

APPLICANT’S STORE 0 9 1 8 1 3 0 7 0 0 A M 

LOT TEMPERATURES Product: Brand/Markings: Origin Lot ID: Number of Containers: Insp 

count 

A: 44 to 52 oF POTATOES, MIXED “PICNIC” MIXED, U.S. NO. 1, 10 LBS. I D ROUND 1025 BAGS Y

B: 39 to 43 oF POTATOES, MIXED “RED & WHITE” U.S. NO. 1, 5 LBS. I D RED & WHITE 365 BAGS Y

C: to oF 

D: to oF L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM OFFSIZE/DEFECTS OTHER 

A. 02 % 00 % % QUALITY – CUTS LOT A: 1-3/4 TO 3-1/4 INCHES, 

07 % 00 % % SPROUTS (0 TO 16%) MOSTLY 2-1/4 TO 2-3/4 INCHES IN 

03 % 02 % % BROWN SURFACE DISCOLORATION (0 TO 8%) DIAMETER. UNDERSIZE WITHIN 

02 % 01 % % RAISED, ENLARGED, DISCOLORED LENTICELS TOLERANCE. 

-1/2 % -1/2 % % SOFT ROT, EARLY STAGES 

14 % 03 % % CHECKSUM LOT A: MOST SAMPLES SHOW 

% % % MANY TO ALL POTATOES HAVING 

B. 01 % 00 % % QUALITY – CUTS SPROUTS RANGING FROM BARELY 

03 % 02 % % RAISED, ENLARGED, DISCOLORED LENTICELS VISIBLE TO 2 INCHES IN LENGTH. 

02 % 01 % % BROWN SURFACE DISCOLORATION 

1/2 % 1/2 % % SOFT ROT, EARLY STAGES LOT B: 2 TO 3-1/4 INCHES, MOSTLY 

07 % 04 % % CHECKSUM 2-1/4 TO 2-3/4 INCHES IN DIAMETER. 

% % % NO UNDERSIZE. 

% % % LOT B: MOST SAMPLES SHOW SOME TO MANY POTATOES HAVING SPROUTS 

% % % RANGING FROM BARELY VISIBLE TO 2 INCHES IN LENGTH, WITH 5% OVER 1/2 INCH IN 

% % % LENGTH, NOT AFFECTING GRADE. 

GRADE: LOT A: FAILS TO GRADE U.S. NO. 1, 2 INCH MINIMUM DIAMETER ACCOUNT CONDITION (SPROUTS). 

LOT B: MEETS U.S.NO. 1, 2 INCH MINIMUM DIAMETER. 

REMARKS: EACH LOT: INSPECTION BASED ON 2 INCH MINIMUM DIAMETER AT APPLICANT’S REQUEST. 

} 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

WARNING: Any person who knowingly shall falsely I, the undersigned, a duly authorized inspector of the United States Department of Agriculture, do hereby certify that at the request of the applicant and on ESTIMATED TOTAL make, issue, alter, forge, or counterfeit this certificate the date indicated, samples of the herein described product were inspected and the quality and/or condition as shown by said samples were as herein stated. 

or participate in any such actions, is subject to a fine Inspector’s Signature: Market Office: of not more than $1,000 or imprisonment for not more $$$$ than one year, or both. Inspector’s Signature MARKET CITY, STATE 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 97 of 112 

Example # 28: Potatoes – Size A 

U.S. U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE CARRIER Loading Applicant: or LOT IDENTIFICATION AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE Loaded - LO U P F E 5 4 0 4 5 0 SUPER-MART, INC. Ptly Unld - PU INSPECTION CERTIFICATE Address: Unloaded - UL L O 

PREFIX NUMBER STATE Lot Insp - LI ANYWHERE, NJ 

Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional Lot ID: Shipper: 

NORTHWEST POTATO CO. M - EXAMPLE # 28

Carrier Type / Name: 

INSPECTOR PO 50991 

Address: Inspection Started: 

MECH. REFRIG. RAILCAR m m d d y y hour min. A/P 

Refrigeration Unit: 

SOMEWHERE, WA 

Doors: Insp. Site: 

☒ On ☐ Off ☐ Open ☒ Closed APPLICANT’S WAREHOUSE 0 5 1 5 1 3 0 7 0 0 A M 

Insp LOT TEMPERATURES Product: Brand/Markings: Origin Lot ID: Number of Containers: count 

A: to oF POTATOES, RUSSET “BIG A” U.S. NO. 1 SIZE A 2300 MASTER CARTONS Y 

B: 

39 45 W A 

to oF POTATOES, RUSSET “SUPER-SIZE” U.S. NO. 1, 60 SIZE 100 CARTONS Y 

C: 

38 43 W A 

oF 

D: 

to 

to oF L Including Including AVERAGE O DAMAGE SER. DAM. OFFSIZE/DEFECTS OTHER DEFECTS T SER. DAM V.S. DAM 

A. 02 % 00 % % QUALITY – SCAB 

06 % 03 % % SUNKEN DISCOLORED AREAS WITH UNDERLYING FLESH DISCOLORED (0 TO 15%) 

04 % 01 % % SUNKEN DISCOLORED AREAS (0 TO 11%) 

-1/2 % -1/2 % % SOFT ROT, EARLY STAGES LOT A: 1-3/4 TO 3 INCHES IN 

12 % 04 % % CHECKSUM DIAMETER, OR 4 TO 16 OUNCES IN 

% % % WEIGHT, WITH 40% OR MORE 2-1/2 

B. 15 % 02 % % QUALITY – HOLLOW HEART WITH DISCOLORATION (5 TO 23%) INCHES IN DIAMETER OR 6 OUNCES 

03 % 02 % % SKIN CHECKS IN WEIGHT OR LARGER. UNDERSIZE 

00 % 00 % % SOFT ROT WITHIN TOLERANCE. 

18 % 04 % % CHECKSUM 

% % % LOT B: MEETS SIZE AS MARKED. 

% % % UNDERSIZE WITHIN TOLERANCE. 

% % 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

GRADE: 

% 

LOT A: FAILS TO GRADE U.S. NO. 1, SIZE A, 2 INCH MINIMUM DIAMETER, ACCOUNT CONDITION. 

LOT B: FAILS TO GRADE U.S. NO. 1, 60 SIZE ACCOUNT QUALITY. 

REMARKS: ABOVE LOTS UNLOADED DURING PROCESS OF INSPECTION.. 

LOT A: INSPECTION BASED ON SIZE A, 2 INCH MINIMUM DIAMETER, AT APPLICANT’S REQUEST. 

WARNING: Any person who knowingly shall falsely I, the undersigned, a duly authorized inspector of the United States Department of Agriculture, do hereby certify that at the request of the applicant and on ESTIMATED TOTAL make, issue, alter, forge, or counterfeit this certificate the date indicated, samples of the herein described product were inspected and the quality and/or condition as shown by said samples were as herein stated. 

or participate in any such actions, is subject to a fine Inspector’s Signature: Market Office: of not more than $1,000 or imprisonment for not more $$$$ than one year, or both. Inspector’s Signature MARKET CITY, STATE 
SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 98 of 112 

Example # 29: Strawberries – Quality and Condition 

CARRIER or LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

Applicant: 

PRODUCE SELLER 

U.S. U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE 

2 H M 1 4 2 1 C A INSPECTION CERTIFICATE L O Address: 

ANYWHERE, WV PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

M - Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional Lot ID: Shipper: 

INSPECTOR 

Carrier Type / Name: Address: 

SOMEWHERE, CA 

Inspection Started: 

MECHANICAL REFRIGERATED TRAILER m m d d y y hour min. A/P 

Refrigeration Unit: 

☒ On ☐ Off 

Doors: 

☐ Open ☒ Closed 

Insp. Site: 

APPLICANT’S WAREHOUSE 0 9 0 4 1 3 1 0 0 0 A M 

LOT TEMPERATURES Product: Brand/Markings: Origin Lot ID: Number of Containers: Insp 

count 

A: 37 to 40 oF STRAWBERRIES “BERRY GOOD” 3/64 OZ PUNNET C A SEE REMARKS 2640 FLATS Y

B: to oF 

C: to oF 

D: to oF L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM OFFSIZE/DEFECTS OTHER 

01 

12 

02 

02 

02 

19 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

% 00 % %

% 06 % %

% 00 % %

% 02 % %

% 02 % %

% 10 % %

PO 54321 

QUALITY – DIRT, MISSING CALYX 

BRUISING (3 TO 22%) 

SUNKEN DISCOLOERED AREAS 

OVERRIPE 

DECAY (0 TO 8%) 

CHECKSUM 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

PRODUCE DISTRIBUTOR EXAMPLE # 29 

SIZE: 1 TO 2-1/4, MOSTLY 

1-1/4 TO 1-3/4 INCHES IN DIAMETER. 

NO UNDERSIZE. 

GENERALLY FAIRLY BRIGHT, FEW DULL. 

CALYXES MOSTLY GREEN, 

SOME TURNING BROWN. 

GENERALLY FIRM. 

DECAY IS IN MOSTLY EARLY, 

SOME MODERATE STAGES. 

GRADE: FAILS TO GRADE U.S. NO. 1 ACCOUNT CONDITION. 

REMARKS: INSPECTED DURING THE PROCESS OF UNLOADING. PALLETS STICKERED ON ONE SIDE WITH ONE OF THESE NUMBERS: 6340821, 7270821, 8430821, 8440821, OR 7390821. 

WARNING: Any person who knowingly shall falsely I, the undersigned, a duly authorized inspector of the United States Department of Agriculture, do hereby certify that at the request of the applicant and on ESTIMATED TOTAL make, issue, alter, forge, or counterfeit this certificate the date indicated, samples of the herein described product were inspected and the quality and/or condition as shown by said samples were as herein stated. 

or participate in any such actions, is subject to a fine Inspector’s Signature: Market Office: of not more than $1,000 or imprisonment for not more $$$$ than one year, or both. Inspector’s Signature MARKET CITY, STATE 
SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 99 of 112 

Example # 30: Tomatoes – US 1, US Combination, US 2 

CARRIER or LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

Applicant: 

TOMATO REPACKER, INC. 

U.S. U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE 

P O 7 9 1 2 4 6 INSPECTION CERTIFICATE U L Address: 

ANYWHERE, MI PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

M - Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional Lot ID: Shipper: 

APPLICANT TOMATO PACKER, INC. EXAMPLE # 30

Carrier Type / Name: Address: 

SOMEWHERE, FL 

Inspection Started: 

m m d d y y hour min. A/P 

Refrigeration Unit: 

☐ On ☐ Off 

Doors: 

☐ Open ☐ Closed 

Insp. Site: 

APPLICANT’S DOCK 0 3 0 5 1 3 0 8 1 5 A M 

LOT TEMPERATURES Product: Brand/Markings: Origin Lot ID: Number of Containers: Insp 

count 

A: 46 to 52 oF TOMATOES ON THE VINE “VILLAGE” NET WT 11 LBS M X 150 FLATS Y

B: 51 to 53 oF TOMATOES, FRESH “LITTLE RED” 5 X 6, USDA FL 123456 F L 160 CARTONS Y

C: 47 to 51 oF TOMATOES, GREENHOUSE “BIG RED” 32 COUNT OR 35 COUNT F L 230 FLATS Y

D: to oF L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM OFFSIZE/DEFECTS OTHER 

A. 04 % 00 % % QUALITY – GREEN TOMATOES 

02 % 00 % % DETACHED FROM VINE 

04 % 00 % % ABNORMAL COLOR 

00 % 00 % % DECAY 

10 % 00 % % CHECKSUM 

% % % LOT B: MEETS SIZE AS MARKED. 

B. 04 % 02 % 00 % QUALITY – SCARS DECAY: ADVANCED STAGES. 

13 % 13 % 00 % ABNORMAL COLOR (9 TO 16%) AVERAGE APPROXIMATELY 5% 

04 % 04 % 04 % DECAY (0 TO 7%) GREEN TO BREAKERS, 50% TURNING 

21 % 19 % 04 % CHECKSUM TO PINK, 30 % LIGHT RED TO RED 

S. DAM % % % 

C. 02 % % % QUALITY – CATFACES LOT C: DECAY: MOSTLY EARLY, 

08 % % % ABNORMAL COLOR (5 TO 14%) SOME ADVANCED STAGES, 

03 % % % DECAY (0 TO 7%) AVERAGE APPROXIMATELY 30% 

13 % % % CHECKSUM TURNING TO PINK, 60% LIGHT RED 

% % % TO RED. 

GRADE: LOT A: U.S. NO. 1; LOT B: FAILS TO GRADE U.S. COMBINATION ACCOUNT CONDITION; LOT C: FAILS TO GRADE U.S. NO. 2 ACCOUNT CONDITION. 

REMARKS: LOT B: INSPECTION BASED ON U.S. COMBINATION GRADE; LOT C: INSPECTION BASED ON U.S. NO. 2 GRADE; EACH AT APPLICANT’S REQUEST. 

LOT C: COLOR REPORTED AT APPLICANT’S REQUEST. 

Tip: When 

applying a U.S. 

Combination grade, 

report abnormal 

color in both 

damage & serious 

damage columns. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

WARNING: Any person who knowingly shall falsely I, the undersigned, a duly authorized inspector of the United States Department of Agriculture, do hereby certify that at the request of the applicant and on ESTIMATED TOTAL make, issue, alter, forge, or counterfeit this certificate the date indicated, samples of the herein described product were inspected and the quality and/or condition as shown by said samples were as herein stated. 

or participate in any such actions, is subject to a fine Inspector’s Signature: Market Office: of not more than $1,000 or imprisonment for not more $$$$ than one year, or both. Inspector’s Signature MARKET CITY, STATE 
SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 100 of 112 

Example # 31: Carrots – Quality and Condition 

CARRIER or LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

Applicant: 

BIG BUNNY CARROT CO. 

U.S. U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE 

P O 1 1 2 2 3 3 INSPECTION CERTIFICATE U L Address: 

ANYWHERE, NY PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

M - Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional Lot ID: Shipper: 

APPLICANT BIG BUNNY CARROT CO. EXAMPLE # 31

Carrier Type / Name: Address: 

SOMEWHERE, CA 

Inspection Started: 

m m d d y y hour min. A/P 

Refrigeration Unit: 

☐ On ☐ Off 

Doors: 

☐ Open ☐ Closed 

Insp. Site: 

APPLICANT’S COOLER 0 9 2 4 1 3 0 9 0 0 A M 

LOT TEMPERATURES Product: Brand/Markings: Origin Lot ID: Number of Containers: Insp 

count 

A: 38 to 41 oF CARROTS, TOPPED ‘BUNNY TREAT” 48/1 LB. BAGS C A 372 MASTER BAGS Y

B: 37 to 42 oF CARROTS, BUNCHED “TENDER BRAND” 24 BUNCHES C A 100 CARTONS Y

C: to oF 

D: to oF L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM OFFSIZE/DEFECTS OTHER 

A. 02 % 00 % % QUALITY – BROKEN TIPS LOT A: 

06 % 01 % % FRESH CRACKS (2 TO 8%) 3/4 TO 1-3/4 INCHES DIAMETER. 

02 % 02 % % SOFT ROT (0 TO 4%), EARLY STAGES OVERSIZE WITHIN TOLERANCE. 

10 % 03 % % CHECKSUM 5 TO 9, MOSTLY 6 TO 8 INCHES 

% % % LENGTH. NO OFFSIZE. 

B. 02 % 01 % % QUALITY – INSECT DAMAGE AFFECTING ROOTS FAILS ON HIGH SAMPLE OF SOFT 

11 % 04 % % YELLOW TO BROWN DISCOLORED TOPS (4 TO 18%) ROT IN CONSUMER UNIT. 

03 % 01 % % FRESH CRACKS 

03 % 03 % % DECAY AFFECTING TOPS, EARLY STAGES LOT B: 

03 % 03 % % SOFT ROT (0 TO 6%), EARLY STAGES 1/2 TO 1 INCH DIAMETER. 

22 % 12 % % CHECKSUM UNDERSIZE WITHIN TOLERANCE. 

% % % TOPS MEDIUM LENGTH. 

% % % SLACK 2 TO 3 INCHES FROM TOP. 

% % % NO PACK ICE PRESENT. 

% % % 

% % % 

GRADE: LOT A: FAILS TO GRADE U.S. NO. 1 ACCOUNT CONDITION IN SOME SAMPLES. 

LOT B: FAILS TO GRADE U.S. NO. 1 ACCOUNT CONDITION. 

REMARKS: 

WARNING: Any person who knowingly shall falsely 

make, issue, alter, forge, or counterfeit this certificate 

or participate in any such actions, is subject to a fine 

of not more than $1,000 or imprisonment for not more 

than one year, or both. 

I, the undersigned, a duly authorized inspector of the United States Department of Agriculture, do hereby certify that at the request of the applicant and on 

the date indicated, samples of the herein described product were inspected and the quality and/or condition as shown by said samples were as herein stated. ESTIMATED TOTAL 

Inspector’s Signature: Market Office: 

$$$$ Inspector’s Signature MARKET CITY, STATE 

Tip: Consumer units 

with 3 lbs. or less 

are only allowed 1 

carrot affected by 

soft rot. Lot A has a 

consumer unit with 2 

affected by soft rot. Tip: Bunched carrots allow 

5% decay affecting tops. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 101 of 112 

Example # 32: Christmas Trees 

CARRIER or LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

Applicant: 

BURL IVY NURSERY 

U.S. U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE 

N O I D INSPECTION CERTIFICATE L I Address: 

ANYWHERE, NY 

PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

M - Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional Lot ID: Shipper: 

KRIS KRINGLE FARMS EXAMPLE # 32 

Carrier Type / Name: Address: 

GARLAND, OR 

Inspection Started: 

m m d d y y hour min. A/P 

Refrigeration Unit: 

☐ On ☐ Off 

Doors: 

☐ Open ☐ Closed 

Insp. Site: 

APPLICANT’S LOT 1 2 0 2 1 3 0 8 0 0 A M 

LOT TEMPERATURES Product: Brand/Markings: Origin Lot ID: Number of Containers: Insp 

count 

A: to oF CHRISTMAS TREES “KRIS KRINGLE’S FINEST” RED O R 500 TREES Y

B: to oF 

C: to oF 

D: to oF L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM OFFSIZE/DEFECTS OTHER 

% % % 25% US PREMIUM SIZE: 

% % % 60% US NO. 1 FROM 5 TO 6 FEET IN HEIGHT. NO OFFSIZE. 

% % % 15% US NO. 2 HANDLE LENGTH FROM 4 TO 6 INCHES. 

% % % 100% CHECKSUM AVERAGE 65% OFF-LENGTH. 

% % % MANY HANDLES PROPORTIONATE 

% % % TO TREE HEIGHT. 

% % % MINOR DEFECTS – MULTIPLE LEADERS, UNEVEN DENSITY. 

% % % NOTICEABLE DEFECTS – MOSTLY OFF-LENGTH HANDLES, SOME HOLES. HEAVY DENSITY. 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

GRADE: FAILS TO GRADE U.S. PREMIUM ACCOUNT QUALITY AND OFF-LENGTH. LOT CONTAINS 85% U.S. NO. 1 QUALITY OR BETTER. 

REMARKS: INSPECTION BASED ON U.S. PREMIUM AT APPLICANT’S REQUEST. 

PERCENTAGE OF U.S. NO. 1 QUALITY REPORTED AT APPLICANT’S REQUEST. 

WARNING: Any person who knowingly shall falsely 

make, issue, alter, forge, or counterfeit this certificate 

or participate in any such actions, is subject to a fine 

of not more than $1,000 or imprisonment for not more 

than one year, or both. 

I, the undersigned, a duly authorized inspector of the United States Department of Agriculture, do hereby certify that at the request of the applicant and on 

the date indicated, samples of the herein described product were inspected and the quality and/or condition as shown by said samples were as herein stated. ESTIMATED TOTAL 

Inspector’s Signature: Market Office: 

$$$$ Inspector’s Signature MARKET CITY, STATE 
SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 102 of 112 

Example # 33: Grapes – Quality and Condition 

CARRIER or LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

Applicant: 

PRODUCE DEALER, INC. 

U.S. U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE 

N O I D INSPECTION CERTIFICATE L I Address: 

ANYWHERE, DE PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

M - Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional Lot ID: Shipper: 

PRODUCE SHIPPER INC. EXAMPLE # 33 

Carrier Type / Name: Address: 

SOMEWHERE, CA 

Inspection Started: 

m m d d y y hour min. A/P 

Refrigeration Unit: 

☐ On ☐ Off 

Doors: 

☐ Open ☐ Closed 

Insp. Site: 

APPLICANT’S STORE 1 0 0 7 1 3 1 0 0 0 A M 

LOT TEMPERATURES Product: Brand/Markings: Origin Lot ID: Number of Containers: Insp 

count 

A: 38 to 40 oF JUICE GRAPES ‘WORLD WINE” 36 LBS C A ZINFANDEL 75 CRATES Y

B: 38 to 40 oF TABLE GRAPES “WORLD FRUIT” 18 LBS C A FLAME SEEDLESS 196 CARTONS Y

C: to oF 

D: to oF L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM OFFSIZE/DEFECTS OTHER 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A. 01 

04 

12 

03 

01 

21 

B. 03 

14 

04 

04 

02 

03 

30 

GRADE: LOT A: U.S.NO. 1 JUICE. LOT B: FAILS TO GRADE U.S.NO.1 TABLE ACCOUNT CONDITION. 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

00 

04 

00 

00 

01 

05 

01 

00 

04 

00 

00 

03 

08 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

QUALITY – SCARS 

WET, STICKY, CRUSHED, AND LEAKING BERRIES 

RAISINING (5 TO 19%) 

RAISINED 

DECAY, ADVANCED STAGES 

CHECKSUM 

QUALITY – SCARS 

DECAYED STEMS (0 TO 25%) 

WET AND STICKY BERRIES 

SHATTERED 

SUNKEN AREAS AROUND CAPSTEMS 

DECAY (FEW BERRIES TO 6%) 

CHECKSUM 

LOT A: FAIRLY WELL COLORED. 

GENERALLY FIRM AND FIRMLY 

ATTACHED TO CAPSTEMS. STEMS 

LIGHT GREEN COLOR. BERRIES AND 

BUNCHES MOSTLY MEDIUM, SOME 

LARGE. 

LOT B: FAIRLY WELL COLORED. 

GENERALLY FIRM AND GENERALLY 

FIRMLY ATTACHED TO CAPSTEMS. 

STEMS TURNING BROWN COLOR. 

DECAY MOSTLY ADVANCED, SOME 

EARLY TO MODERATE STAGES, 

OCCURRING IN NESTS. BERRIES 

MOSTLY MEDIUM, SOME LARGE. 

BUNCHES MOSTLY MEDIUM, SOME 

LARGE, SOME SMALL. 

REMARKS: 

WARNING: Any person who knowingly shall falsely I, the undersigned, a duly authorized inspector of the United States Department of Agriculture, do hereby certify that at the request of the applicant and on ESTIMATED TOTAL make, issue, alter, forge, or counterfeit this certificate the date indicated, samples of the herein described product were inspected and the quality and/or condition as shown by said samples were as herein stated. 

or participate in any such actions, is subject to a fine Inspector’s Signature: Market Office: of not more than $1,000 or imprisonment for not more $$$$ than one year, or both. Inspector’s Signature MARKET CITY, STATE 
SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 103 of 112 

Example # 34: Cucumbers – Quality and Condition, Count 

CARRIER or LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

Applicant: 

PRODUCE MARKETS, INC. 

U.S. U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE 

L 2 6 2 8 4 INSPECTION CERTIFICATE U L Address: 

ANYWHERE, IL PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

M - Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional Lot ID: Shipper: 

manifest Po 310734 PRODUCE SHIPPER, INC. EXAMPLE # 34 

Carrier Type / Name: Address: 

LAKELAND, FL 

Inspection Started: 

m m d d y y hour min. A/P 

Refrigeration Unit: 

☐ On ☐ Off 

Doors: 

☐ Open ☐ Closed 

Insp. Site: 

APPLICANT’S WAREHOUSE 0 3 1 2 1 3 1 2 3 0 P M 

LOT TEMPERATURES Product: Brand/Markings: Origin Lot ID: Number of Containers: Insp 

count 

A: 49 to 51 oF CUCUMBERS “NO BRAND” 1-1/9 BUSHEL F L SUPER SELECTS 200 CARTONS Y

B: 48 to 50 oF CUCUMBERS “NO BRAND” 1-1/9 BUSHEL F L LARGE 80 CARTONS Y

C: to oF EACH LOT: FRESH VEGETABLES 

D: to oF JERRY ROBERTS PRODUCE 

L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM OFFSIZE/DEFECTS OTHER 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A. 07 

03 

10 

B. 07 

02 

07 

03 

-1/2 

19 

GRADE: 

% 00 % %

% 03 % %

% 03 % %

% % %

% 00 % %

% 00 % %

% 03 % %

% 00 % %

% -1/2 % %

% 03 %

%

% 

% 

% % %

% %

% % %

% % %

% %

% % %

QUALITY – CUTS, SCARS (3 TO 10%) 

DECAY (0 TO 8%) 

CHECKSUM 

DIAMETER UNDER 2-1/4 INCHES (4 TO 11%) 

QUALITY – NOT FAIRLY WELL FORMED, SCARS 

YELLOWING (4 TO 10%) 

SHRIVELED ENDS 

DECAY 

CHECKSUM 

LOT A: 1-3/4 TO 2-1/2 INCHES 

IN DIAMETER. OVERSIZE WITHIN 

TOLERANCE. 6 TO 10, MOSTLY 

7 TO 9 INCHES IN LENGTH. NO OFFSIZE. 

COUNT RANGES FROM 61 TO 74, 

AVERAGE 66 CUCUMBERS 

PER CARTON. 

LOT B: 

2 TO 2-3/4 INCHES IN DIAMETER. 

7 TO 10-1/2, MOSTLY 8 TO 9 INCHES 

IN LENGTH. 

EACH LOT: 

DECAY IS IN EARLY STAGES. 

LOT A: FAILS TO GRADE U.S. NO. 1 ACCOUNT CONDITION. LOT B: FAILS TO GRADE U.S. NO. 1 LARGE ACCOUNT CONDITION AND SIZE. 

REMARKS: LOT A: COUNT REPORTED AT APPLICANT’S REQUEST. 

WARNING: Any person who knowingly shall falsely I, the undersigned, a duly authorized inspector of the United States Department of Agriculture, do hereby certify that at the request of the applicant and on ESTIMATED TOTAL make, issue, alter, forge, or counterfeit this certificate the date indicated, samples of the herein described product were inspected and the quality and/or condition as shown by said samples were as herein stated. 

or participate in any such actions, is subject to a fine Inspector’s Signature: Market Office: of not more than $1,000 or imprisonment for not more $$$$ than one year, or both. Inspector’s Signature MARKET CITY, STATE 
SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 104 of 112 

Example # 35: Kiwifruit – Soluble Solids 

CARRIER or LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

Applicant: 

FUZZY FRUIT CO., LLC 

U.S. U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE 

P O 9 9 1 9 9 INSPECTION CERTIFICATE U L Address: 

AUCKLAND, NZ PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

M - Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional Lot ID: Shipper: 

APPLICANT REF 10001 TRANSPACIFIC FRUIT, INC. EXAMPLE # 35

Carrier Type / Name: Address: 

SAN DIEGO, CA 

Inspection Started: 

m m d d y y hour min. A/P 

Refrigeration Unit: 

☐ On ☐ Off 

Doors: 

☐ Open ☐ Closed 

Insp. Site: 

BIG-MART DIST. CTR. ANYWHERE, PA 1 0 2 8 1 3 0 8 5 0 A M 

LOT TEMPERATURES Product: Brand/Markings: Origin Lot ID: Number of Containers: Insp 

count 

A: 36 to 41 oF KIWIFRUIT “NORTH ISLAND’S BEST BRAND” N Z 9687, 9688, OR 9670 3000 CARTONS Y

B: to oF HAYWARD, 40 COUNT 

C: to oF 

D: to oF L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM OFFSIZE/DEFECTS OTHER 

02 % 01 % % QUALITY – ALLIGATOR SKIN, HAYWARD MARK, SCARS MANY FIRM RIPE, MANY RIPE, 

07 % 00 % % SURFACE MOLD (0 TO 20%) SOME FIRM. 

03 % 03 % % SOFT (0 TO 15%) 

02 % 01 % % PITTING SOLUBLE SOLIDS RANGES 6.5 TO 

04 % 04 % % DECAY (0 TO 15%); MOSTLY EARLY, SOME MODERATE STAGES 12, AVERAGE 9.1% 

18 % 09 % % CHECKSUM 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

GRADE: FAILS TO GRADE U.S. NO. 1 ACCOUNT CONDITION. 

REMARKS: RANGE AND AVERAGE SOLUBLE SOLIDS REPORTED AT APPLICANT’S REQUEST. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

WARNING: Any person who knowingly shall falsely I, the undersigned, a duly authorized inspector of the United States Department of Agriculture, do hereby certify that at the request of the applicant and on ESTIMATED TOTAL make, issue, alter, forge, or counterfeit this certificate the date indicated, samples of the herein described product were inspected and the quality and/or condition as shown by said samples were as herein stated. 

or participate in any such actions, is subject to a fine Inspector’s Signature: Market Office: of not more than $1,000 or imprisonment for not more $$$$ than one year, or both. Inspector’s Signature PITTSBURGH, PA 
SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 105 of 112 

Example # 36: Onions – Partly Unloaded, Fails on Size 

CARRIER or LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

Applicant: 

PRODUCE DEALER 

U.S. U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE 

S T 4 5 2 6 4 7 C A INSPECTION CERTIFICATE P U Address: 

ANYWHERE, NH PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

M - Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional Lot ID: Shipper: 

APPLICANT PO 1234 PRODUCE SHIPPER EXAMPLE # 36

Carrier Type / Name: Address: 

SOMEWHERE, LA 

Inspection Started: 

VENTED TRAILER m m d d y y hour min. A/P 

Refrigeration Unit: 

☐ On ☐ Off 

Doors: 

☒ Open ☐ Closed 

Insp. Site: 

APPLICANT’S WAREHOUSE 0 6 2 5 1 3 0 8 4 5 A M 

LOT TEMPERATURES Product: Brand/Markings: Origin Lot ID: Number of Containers: Insp 

count 

A: 56 to 59 oF BGG ONIONS, RED “LATANTA” 50 LBS NET WT O T MEDIUM 700 SACKS Y

B: 58 to 59 oF BGG ONIONS, RED “LATANTA” 50 LBS NET WT O T MEDIUM 200 SACKS Y

C: to oF 

D: to oF L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM OFFSIZE/DEFECTS OTHER 

A. 12 % 00 % % DIAMETER OVER 3-1/4 INCHES (0 TO 54%) LOT A: SIZE: 2-1/4 TO 3-3/4, MOSTLY 

01 % 00 % % QUALITY – DOUBLES, CUTS 2-1/4 TO 3-1/4 INCHES IN DIAMETER. 

04 % 00 % % DRY SUNKEN AREAS DECAY: GENERALLY EARLY, FEW 

13 % 13 % % DECAY (4 TO 24%) ADVANCED STAGES. 

30 % 13 % % CHECKSUM 

% % % 

B. 00 % 00 % % QUALITY LOT B: SIZE: 2-1/4 TO 3-1/4 INCHES IN DIAMETER. 

02 % 00 % % DRY SUNKEN AREAS DECAY: EARLY STAGES 

-1/2 % -1/2 % % DECAY 

02 % 00 % % CHECKSUM EACH LOT: NO OFFSIZE. 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

GRADE: LOT A: FAILS TO GRADE U.S.NO. 1 MEDIUM, BERMUDA-GRANEX-GRANO, ACCOUNT CONDITION AND SIZE. 

LOT B: U.S.NO. 1 MEDIUM, BERMUDA-GRANEX-GRANO. 

REMARKS: LOT A: INSPECTED DURING THE PROCESS OF UNLOADING. LOT B: APPLICANT STATES LOT B WAS UNLOADED FROM THE ABOVE MENTIONED TRAILER. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

WARNING: Any person who knowingly shall falsely I, the undersigned, a duly authorized inspector of the United States Department of Agriculture, do hereby certify that at the request of the applicant and on ESTIMATED TOTAL make, issue, alter, forge, or counterfeit this certificate the date indicated, samples of the herein described product were inspected and the quality and/or condition as shown by said samples were as herein stated. 

or participate in any such actions, is subject to a fine Inspector’s Signature: Market Office: of not more than $1,000 or imprisonment for not more $$$$ than one year, or both. Inspector’s Signature MARKET CITY, STATE 
SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 106 of 112 

Example # 37: Peppers – Mixed Color 

CARRIER or LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

Applicant: 

ROBERT’S VEG SHACK, INC. 

U.S. U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE 

X B Z 7 5 0 4 5 0 INSPECTION CERTIFICATE L O Address: 

ANYWHERE, NJ PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

M - Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional Lot ID: Shipper: 

INSPECTOR PO 103838 GREAT GREEN PEPPER CORP. EXAMPLE # 37

Carrier Type / Name: Address: 

SOMEWHERE, CA 

Inspection Started: 

MECH. REFRIG. TRAILER m m d d y y hour min. A/P 

Refrigeration Unit: 

☒ On ☐ Off 

Doors: 

☐ Open ☒ Closed 

Insp. Site: 

APPLICANT’S STORE 1 0 2 5 1 2 0 6 4 5 A M 

LOT TEMPERATURES Product: Brand/Markings: Origin Lot ID: Number of Containers: Insp 

count 

A: 41 to 46 oF SWEET PEPPERS “BICOLOR BRAND” 1 BU SUNTAN M X EXTRA LARGE 640 CARTONS Y

B: 38 to 43 oF SWEET PEPPERS “STANDARD GREEN” 1 BUSHEL M X LARGE 400 CARTONS Y

C: to oF 

D: to oF L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM OFFSIZE/DEFE OTHER 

A. 02 % 00 % 00 % QUALITY – SCARS LOT A: 3-1/2 TO 4-1/2 INCHES IN LENGTH. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CTS

04 % 01 % 00 % SHRIVELING 2-3/4 TO 4, MOSTLY 3 TO 3-1/2 INCHES 

-1 % -1 % -1 % DECAY – ADVANCED STAGES, AFFECTING WALLS IN DIAMETER. 

07 % 02 % 01 % CHECKSUM UNDERSIZE WITHIN TOLERANCE. 

DAM % S. DAM % % 

B. 04 % 00 % % QUALITY – SCARS 

12 % 00 % % TURNING RED COLOR (0 TO 26%) LOT B: 3 TO 4 INCHES IN LENGTH, 

11 % 04 % % PITTING (7 TO 16%) 2-3/4 TO 3-3/4 INCHES IN DIAMETER. 

02 % 02 % % CRUSHED AND BROKEN NO UNDERSIZE. 

01 % 01 % % DECAY – EARLY STAGES, AFFECTING STEMS 

30 % 07 % % CHECKSUM 

% % % 

% % % 

Tip: For Lot A, 

applicant did not want 

turning red color 

scored. Inspector 

applied mixed color to 

eliminate the color 

requirement. 

% 

% % %

% %

% % %

GRADE: LOT A: U.S. FANCY MIXED COLOR. 

LOT B: FAILS TO GRADE U.S. NO. 1 ACCOUNT CONDITION. 

REMARKS: LOT A: GRADE BASED ON U.S. FANCY AT APPLICANT’S REQUEST. DESIGNATED AS A MIXED COLOR LOT AT APPLICANT’S REQUEST. 

LOTS A AND B: INSPECTED DURING PROCESS OF UNLOADING. 

WARNING: Any person who knowingly shall falsely 

make, issue, alter, forge, or counterfeit this certificate 

or participate in any such actions, is subject to a fine 

of not more than $1,000 or imprisonment for not more 

than one year, or both. 

I, the undersigned, a duly authorized inspector of the United States Department of Agriculture, do hereby certify that at the request of the applicant and on 

the date indicated, samples of the herein described product were inspected and the quality and/or condition as shown by said samples were as herein stated. 

Inspector’s Signature: Market Office: 

Inspector’s Signature NEWARK, NJ 

ESTIMATED TOTAL 

$$$$ 
SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 107 of 112 

Example # 38: Peppers – Specified Color 

CARRIER or LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

Applicant: 

PIPER PEPPERS CORP. 

U.S. U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE 

L O T 1 2 3 3 2 1 INSPECTION CERTIFICATE U L Address: 

SOMEWHERE, NY PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

M - Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional Lot ID: Shipper: 

APPLICANT FRESH DELIVERY, INC. EXAMPLE # 38

Carrier Type / Name: Address: 

SOMEWHERE, CA 

Inspection Started: 

m m d d y y hour min. A/P 

Refrigeration Unit: 

☐ On ☐ Off 

Doors: 

☐ Open ☐ Closed 

Insp. Site: 

APPLICANT’S WAREHOUSE 0 9 0 9 1 3 0 8 2 5 A M 

LOT TEMPERATURES Product: Brand/Markings: Origin Lot ID: Number of Containers: Insp 

count 

A: 39 to 42 oF SWEET PEPPERS “PRETTY PEPPER” 11 LBS JUMBO C A YELLOW 315 CARTONS Y

B: 40 to 43 oF SWEET PEPPERS “PRETTY PEPPER” 11 LBS JUMBO C A ORANGE 245 CARTONS Y

C: 42 to 45 oF OTHER PEPPERS “FLAME” 11 LBS M X JALAPENO 54 CARTONS Y

D: to oF L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM OFFSIZE/DEFECTS OTHER 

A. 03 

05 

02 

10 

B. 02 

02 

03 

C. 

46 

00 % 00 % % DECAY TURNING ORANGE COLOR, NOT 

07 % 05 % % CHECKSUM AFFECTING GRADE 

% % % 

40 % 30 % % QUALITY – SCARS (32 TO 44%) LOT C: MOSTLY GREEN, SOME 

06 % 02 % % SHRIVELING (4 TO 8%) TURNING RED COLOR, NOT 

00 % 00 % % DECAY AFFECTING GRADE. 

Tip: Allowed 5% 

for stem decay. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

% 00 % %

% 02 % %

% 02 % %

% 04 % %

% % %

% 00 % %

% 02 % %

% 03 % %

% 32 % %

QUALITY – SCARS 

BRUISING 

DECAY, EARLY STAGES AFFECTING WALLS 

CHECKSUM 

QUALITY – INSECTS 

CRUSHED AND BROKEN 

STEM DECAY, MOSTLY EARLY, SOME ADVANCED STAGES 

CHECKSUM 

LOTS A AND B: 2-3/4 TO 5, MOSTLY 3-1/2 

TO 5 INCHES IN LENGTH, 

3 TO 4 INCHES IN DIAMETER. NO OFFSIZE. 

LOT A: GENERALLY YELLOW, FEW 

GREEN COLOR. 

LOT B: 30 TO 64%, AVERAGE 49% 

2-1/2 TO 4, MOSTLY 3 TO 4 INCHES IN LENGTH. 

% % % UNDERSIZE WITHIN TOLERANCE. 

GRADE: LOT A: U.S. NO. 1 YELLOW; LOT B: U.S. NO. 1 ORANGE; LOT C: FAILS TO GRADE U.S. NO. 1 GREEN, 3 INCH MINIMUM LENGTH ACCOUNT QUALITY. 

REMARKS: LOT B: APPLICANT REQUESTED PERCENTAGES OF TURNING ORANGE COLOR. 

LOT C: APPLICANT SPECIFIED GREEN COLOR AND 3 INCH MINIMUM LENGTH. 

WARNING: Any person who knowingly shall falsely 

make, issue, alter, forge, or counterfeit this certificate 

or participate in any such actions, is subject to a fine 

of not more than $1,000 or imprisonment for not more 

than one year, or both. 

I, the undersigned, a duly authorized inspector of the United States Department of Agriculture, do hereby certify that at the request of the applicant and on 

the date indicated, samples of the herein described product were inspected and the quality and/or condition as shown by said samples were as herein stated. 

Inspector’s Signature: Market Office: 

Inspector’s Signature MARKET CITY, STATE 

ESTIMATED TOTAL 

$$$$ 
SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 108 of 112 

Example # 39: Fresh Peas and Pea Pods 

CARRIER or LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

Applicant: 

PRODUCE HOUSE, INC. 

U.S. U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE 

P O 7 7 8 9 0 INSPECTION CERTIFICATE U L Address: 

ANYWHERE, OH PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

M - Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional Lot ID: Shipper: 

APPLICANT FRESH DISTRIBUTOR EXAMPLE # 39

Carrier Type / Name: Address: 

POMPANO BEACH, FL 

Inspection Started: 

m m d d y y hour min. A/P 

Refrigeration Unit: 

☐ On ☐ Off 

Doors: 

☐ Open ☐ Closed 

Insp. Site: 

APPLICANT’S WAREHOUSE 1 1 2 7 1 3 0 8 3 0 A M 

LOT TEMPERATURES Product: Brand/Markings: Origin Lot ID: Number of Containers: Insp 

count 

A: 40 to 42 oF FRESH PEAS “GREEN HILL’ 10 LBS P U SUGAR SNAPS 120 CARTONS Y

B: 35 to 37 oF PEA PODS “SNOW HILL” 10 LBS P U SNOW PEAS 50 CARTONS Y

C: to oF 

D: to oF L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM 

OFFSIZE/DEFECTS OTHER 

A. 01 % 00 % % QUALITY – THRIP DAMAGE LOT A: MANY CALYXES YELLOW TO 

07 % 02 % % BRUISING (4 TO 12%) BROWN COLOR, NOT AFFECTING 

06 % 00 % % BLACK CALYXES (2 TO 16%) GRADE. 

02 % 02 % % DECAY (0 TO 4%), EARLY STAGES 

16 % 04 % % CHECKSUM LOT A: PODS 3 TO 4 INCHES IN 

% % % LENGTH, REPORTED AT APPLICANT’S 

Tip: Fresh pea 

standards may be 

applied to sugar snaps 

(but doesn’t have to be) 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

B. 00 % 00 % % QUALITY REQUEST. 

10 % 00 % % PITTING (6 TO 18%) 

07 % 03 % % BRUISING (2 TO 16%) 

03 % 00 % % YELLOWING LOT B: SOME CALYXES DRY AND 

00 % 00 % % DECAY TAN TO LIGHT BROWN COLOR, NOT 

20 % 03 % % CHECKSUM AFFECTING GRADE. 

% % % 

% % % LOT B: PODS 2-1/2 TO 3-1/4 INCHES 

% % % IN LENGTH. NO OFFSIZE. 

% % % 

GRADE: LOTS A AND B: FAIL TO GRADE U.S. NO. 1 ACCOUNT CONDITION. 

REMARKS: 

when pods have well 

developed seeds. When 

fresh pea standards are 

not applied, sugar snaps 

are a NOG. 

Tip: Pea pod standards 

can only be applied to 

snow peas and other flat 

type pods. 

WARNING: Any person who knowingly shall falsely I, the undersigned, a duly authorized inspector of the United States Department of Agriculture, do hereby certify that at the request of the applicant and on ESTIMATED TOTAL make, issue, alter, forge, or counterfeit this certificate the date indicated, samples of the herein described product were inspected and the quality and/or condition as shown by said samples were as herein stated. 

or participate in any such actions, is subject to a fine Inspector’s Signature: Market Office: of not more than $1,000 or imprisonment for not more $$$$ than one year, or both. Inspector’s Signature MARKET CITY, STATE 
SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 109 of 112 

Example # 40: Asparagus – Quality and Condition 

CARRIER or LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

Applicant: 

PRODUCE MARKETER, INC. 

U.S. U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE 

L O T 1 4 9 2 INSPECTION CERTIFICATE U L Address: 

ANYWHERE, NY PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

M - Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional Lot ID: Shipper: 

APPLICANT VEGETABLE GROWER, INC. EXAMPLE # 40

Carrier Type / Name: Address: 

CALEXICO, CA 

Inspection Started: 

m m d d y y hour min. A/P 

Refrigeration Unit: 

☐ On ☐ Off 

Doors: 

☐ Open ☐ Closed 

Insp. Site: 

APPLICANT’S WAREHOUSE 1 1 2 9 1 3 1 0 0 0 A M 

LOT TEMPERATURES Product: Brand/Markings: Origin Lot ID: Number of Containers: Insp 

count 

A: 40 to 46 oF FRESH ASPARAGUS “HARVEST EXPRESS” 11 LBS. CALIFORNIA STANDARD SIZE M X BUNCHED 240 CARTONS Y

B: 45 to 52 oF FRESH ASPARAGUS “HARVEST EXPRESS” 11 LBS. CALIFORNIA LARGE SIZE M X BUNCHED 500 CARTONS Y

C: to oF 

D: to oF L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM OFFSIZE/DEFECTS OTHER 

A. 06 % 00 % % QUALITY – MISSHAPEN, NOT WELL TRIMMED (4 TO 10%) LOT A: 5/16 TO 10/16 INCHES IN 

10 % 04 % % SPREADING (5 TO 20%) DIAMETER. 

05 % 02 % % SHRIVELING 

05 % 00 % % FEATHERED TIPS 

03 % 00 % % WATERSOAKED TIPS 

02 % 02 % % FLABBY 

-1 % -1 % % DECAY, EARLY STAGES 

32 % 09 % % CHECKSUM LOT B: 7/16 TO 12/16 INCHES IN 

% % % DIAMETER. 

B. 15 % 06 % % QUALITY – RUST (10 TO 30%) 

12 % 10 % % WATERSOAKED TIPS (4 TO 20%) LOT B: DECAY IS IN EARLY STAGES 

06 % 06 % % DECAY (0 TO 22%) AFFECTING TIPS AND BUTTS. 

33 % 22 % % CHECKSUM 

% % % EACH LOT: NO UNDERSIZE. 

% % % 

% % % 

GRADE: LOT A: FAILS TO GRADE U.S. NO. 1, 5/16 INCH MINIMUM DIAMETER, ACCOUNT CONDITION. 

LOT B: FAILS TO GRADE U.S. NO. 1, 7/16 INCH MINIMUM DIAMETER, ACCOUNT QUALITY. 

REMARKS: 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

WARNING: Any person who knowingly shall falsely I, the undersigned, a duly authorized inspector of the United States Department of Agriculture, do hereby certify that at the request of the applicant and on ESTIMATED TOTAL make, issue, alter, forge, or counterfeit this certificate the date indicated, samples of the herein described product were inspected and the quality and/or condition as shown by said samples were as herein stated. 

or participate in any such actions, is subject to a fine Inspector’s Signature: Market Office: of not more than $1,000 or imprisonment for not more $$$$ than one year, or both. Inspector’s Signature MARKET CITY, STATE 
SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 110 of 112 

Example # 41: Peppers – Specified Color and Size 

CARRIER or LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

Applicant: 

WHOLESALE PRODUCE 

U.S. U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE 

P O 4 6 4 7 2 INSPECTION CERTIFICATE U L Address: 

ANYWHERE, TN PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

M - Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional Lot ID: Shipper: 

APPLICANT VEGETABLE SHIPPER EXAMPLE # 41

Carrier Type / Name: Address: 

COACHELLA, CA 

Inspection Started: 

m m d d y y hour min. A/P 

Refrigeration Unit: 

☐ On ☐ Off 

Doors: 

☐ Open ☐ Closed 

Insp. Site: 

APPLICANT’S WAREHOUSE 1 2 0 5 1 4 0 9 3 5 A M 

LOT TEMPERATURES Product: Brand/Markings: Origin Lot ID: Number of Containers: Insp 

count 

A: 38 to 42 oF SWEET PEPPERS “TRI-BELL” MINI 9 – 2 LB. BAGS C A YELLOW/RED/ORANGE 240 MASTER CARTONS Y

B: to oF 

C: to oF 

D: to oF L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM OFFSIZE/DEFECTS OTHER 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

% 00 % % QUALITY – SCARS 

% 00 % % SHRIVELING 

% 00 % % DECAY 

% 00 % % CHECKSUM 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% 

% % 

% % 

% % 

% % 

% % 

% % 

% % 

% % 

% % 

% % 

% % 

% % 

U.S.NO. 1 YELLOW, RED, AND ORANGE, 1 INCH MINIMUM DIAMETER, 1-3/4 INCH MINIMUM LENGTH. 

01 

03 

00 

04 

GRADE: 

1 TO 1-3/4 INCHES IN DIAMETER. 

1-3/4 TO 4, MOSTLY 2 TO 3 INCHES 

IN LENGTH. NO UNDERSIZE. 

REMARKS: STEMS GENERALLY 

SHOW DARK BROWN TO BLACK 

DISCOLORATION, NOT AFFECTING 

GRADE, REPORTED AT 

APPLICANT’S REQUEST. 

REMARKS: INSPECTION BASED ON 1 INCH MINIMUM DIAMETER AND 1-3/4 INCH MINIMUM LENGTH AT APPLICANT’S REQUEST. 

WARNING: Any person who knowingly shall falsely I, the undersigned, a duly authorized inspector of the United States Department of Agriculture, do hereby certify that at the request of the applicant and on ESTIMATED TOTAL make, issue, alter, forge, or counterfeit this certificate the date indicated, samples of the herein described product were inspected and the quality and/or condition as shown by said samples were as herein stated. 

or participate in any such actions, is subject to a fine Inspector’s Signature: Market Office: of not more than $1,000 or imprisonment for not more $$$$ than one year, or both. Inspector’s Signature MARKET CITY, STATE 
SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 111 of 112 

Example # 42: Apples – Stem Punctures 

CARRIER or LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

Applicant: 

PRODUCE DEALER INC. 

U.S. U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE 

P O 1 3 4 9 2 INSPECTION CERTIFICATE U L Address: 

ANYWHERE, PA PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

M - Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional Lot ID: Shipper: 

APPLICANT PRODUCE SHIPPER INC. EXAMPLE # 42

Carrier Type / Name: Address: 

SOMEWHERE, OH 

Inspection Started: 

m m d d y y hour min. A/P 

Refrigeration Unit: 

☐ On ☐ Off 

Doors: 

☐ Open ☐ Closed 

Insp. Site: 

APPLICANT’S STORE 0 5 1 5 1 3 0 8 0 0 A M 

LOT TEMPERATURES Product: Brand/Markings: Origin Lot ID: Number of Containers: Insp 

count 

A: 38 to 41 oF APPLES, GREEN “BUENA FRUIT” 12/3 LB. BAGS 2-1/2” MIN DIA. C E GRANNY SMITH 126 CARTONS Y

B: 39 to 42 oF APPLES, YELLOW “BUENA FRUIT” 70 COUNT CAT 1 C E YELLOW DELICIOUS 265 CARTONS Y

C: to oF 

D: to oF L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM OFFSIZE/DEFECTS OTHER 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A. 04 % 00 % % QUALITY – NOT FAIRLY WELL FORMED, LIMB RUBS LOT A: MOSTLY FIRM RIPE, SOME 

13 % 00 % % SINGLE STEM PUNCTURES (0 TO 20%) RIPE. MOSTLY GREEN, SOME LIGHT GREEN 

10 % 05 % % BRUISING (8 TO 14%) GROUND COLOR. DECAY IN EARLY 

04 % 02 % % MULTIPLE STEM PUNCTURES STAGES. 

03 % 01 % % BROWN SURFACE DISCOLORATION LOT A: 2-1/4 TO 3 INCHES IN 

01 % 01 % % DECAY DIAMETER. UNDERSIZE WITHIN 

35 % 09 % % CHECKSUM TOLERANCE. 

% % 

% 

% 

B. 09 % 02 % QUALITY – INVISIBLE WATERCORE, STEM PUNCTURES (2 TO 14%) LOT B: MOSTLY FIRM RIPE, MANY 

08 % 04 % % BRUISING (5 TO 12%) RIPE. MOSTLY GREENISH YELLOW, 

05 % 00 % % STORAGE SCAB MANY LIGHT YELLOW TO YELLOW 

02 % 01 % % BROWN SURFACE DISCOLORATION GROUND COLOR. 

00 % 00 % % DECAY 

24 % 07 % % CHECKSUM 

% % % 

% % % 

GRADE: LOT A: U.S. NO. 1, 2-1/2 INCH MINIMUM DIAMETER, SINGLE STEM PUNCTURES AND BRUISING BEING FACTORS OF CONDITION. 

LOT B: U.S. NO. 1, BRUISING AND STORAGE SCAB BEING FACTORS OF CONDITION. 

REMARKS: 

Tip: Except on Fuji apples, score 

& report invisible watercore after 

Jan 31 no matter where they are 

grown. 

WARNING: Any person who knowingly shall falsely I, the undersigned, a duly authorized inspector of the United States Department of Agriculture, do hereby certify that at the request of the applicant and on ESTIMATED TOTAL make, issue, alter, forge, or counterfeit this certificate the date indicated, samples of the herein described product were inspected and the quality and/or condition as shown by said samples were as herein stated. 

or participate in any such actions, is subject to a fine Inspector’s Signature: Market Office: of not more than $1,000 or imprisonment for not more $$$$ than one year, or both. Inspector’s Signature MARKET CITY, STATE 
SCI Division Inspection Series Fresh F&V Inspection Certificate (FV-300) Manual 

Effective Date: March 2015 Page 112 of 112 

Example # 43: Eggplant – Mixed 

CARRIER or LOT IDENTIFICATION Loading 

Loaded - LO 

Ptly Unld - PU 

Unloaded - UL 

Lot Insp - LI 

Applicant: 

VEGGIE FARMS CO. 

U.S. U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE 

P O 2 6 7 0 INSPECTION CERTIFICATE U L Address: 

ANYWHERE, VT PREFIX NUMBER STATE 

M - Carrier / Lot ID Stated by: Additional Lot ID: Shipper: 

Carrier Type / Name: Address: 

SOMEWHERE, FL 

Inspection Started: 

m m d d y y hour min. A/P 

Refrigeration Unit: 

☐ On ☐ Off 

Doors: 

☐ Open ☐ Closed 

Insp. Site: 

APPLICANT’S STORE 1 1 2 7 1 3 0 9 1 5 A M 

LOT TEMPERATURES Product: Brand/Markings: Origin Lot ID: Number of Containers: Insp 

count 

A: 39 to 43 oF EGGPLANT, MIXED “FANCY FAMILY PACK” 1/2 BU. F L BLACK, PURPLE, & WHITE 175 CARTONS Y

B: to oF 

C: to oF 

D: to oF L 

O 

T 

AVERAGE 

DEFECTS 

Including 

DAMAGE 

SER. DAM 

Including 

SER. DAM. 

V.S. DAM OFFSIZE/DEFECTS OTHER 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

APPLICANT 

02 % 00 % %

12 % 05 % %

11 % 05 % %

08 % 02 % %

02 % 02 % %

LOT 682 EGGPLANT GROWERS, INC. 

QUALITY – SCARS 

BROWN SURFACE DISCOLORATION (7 TO 22%) 

SUNKEN AREAS (0 TO 25%) 

PITTING (4 TO 12%) 

DECAY (0 TO 5%), EARLY STAGES 

35 % 14 % % CHECKSUM CALYXES HAVING SLIGHT TO 

MODERATE WHITE SURFACE MOLD, 

NOT AFFECTING GRADE, REPORTED 

AT APPLICANT’S REQUEST. 

EXAMPLE # 43 

CALYXES MOSTLY TURNING BROWN 

TO BLACK COLOR, SOME FRESH 

AND LIGHT GREEN. 

ALL SAMPLES SHOW SOME TO MANY 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

% % % 

GRADE: FAILS TO GRADE U.S. NO. 1 ACCOUNT CONDITION. 

REMARKS: APPLICANT STATES PACKED FOR MIXED TYPE. 

WARNING: Any person who knowingly shall falsely I, the undersigned, a duly authorized inspector of the United States Department of Agriculture, do hereby certify that at the request of the applicant and on ESTIMATED TOTAL make, issue, alter, forge, or counterfeit this certificate the date indicated, samples of the herein described product were inspected and the quality and/or condition as shown by said samples were as herein stated. 

or participate in any such actions, is subject to a fine Inspector’s Signature: Market Office: of not more than $1,000 or imprisonment for not more $$$$ than one year, or both. Inspector’s Signature MARKET CITY, STATE