(60)

(61)

(62)

(63)

(64)

= 16 =

Unless inspection is requested on the basis of "light" or "light
amber" kernel color classification, it is not necessary to determine
the percentage of kernels in these classes. The kernels which are
“dark amber", but not otherwise defective, are scored as "damaged" by
color. The kernels which have "dark discoloration" (blackish-brown)
over more than 25 percent of the outer surface, but which are not_
rancid, decayed, moldy or injured by insects, are scored as "seriously
damaged" by color. If the kernel is both dark discolored and rancid,
decayed, moldy or insect injured, it shall be scored as one of the
latter group which are the most objectionable.

When a lot is specified to be U.S. No. 1 Light or Light Amber, and
inspection is requested on the basis of one of those colors, any
kernel of a darker color classification shall be scored as a grade
defect. Such kernels may be scored against the 12 percent general
tolerance or the 8 percent additional tolerance, but those having dark
discoloration must be scored against the 7 percent tolerance for
serious defects. If there were no other defects, a lot could contain
13 percent darker than "light amber" plus 7 percent dark
discoloration, and it would grade U.S. No. 1 Light Amber.

The 8 percent additional tolerance in U.S. No. 1 applies to kernels
scored for skin color only, but must not be used for any having dark
discoloration. All kernels having grade defects other than those of
skin color, and those having dark discoloration must be scored against
the 12 percent and the included 7 percent tolerance.

U.S. No. 2 grade has no provision for specifying a lighter skin color
classification, but there is no restriction against a color
specification. All grade defects are scored against the 30 percent
total tolerance and the restricted tolerances for serious defects.

Development (Meatiness). The standards recognize four degrees of
development of the kernels. Three of them are described by
definitions and cross-section sketches. "Well developed" kernels
contain much more meat than the minimum requirement of U.S. No. 1
grade. This term should be used in describing lots which have "some"
or "many" or "most" kernels well developed. U.S. No. 1 Grade requires
kernels be at least "fairly well developed", and the sketches in


(32)

(33)

(34)

(35)

(36)

-10-

numbers, whether printed, stencilled, stamped or written. Do not
overlook insignificant appearing marks on tags because they may lot of
pecans is more likely than many other products to be made up of
several growers' lots. If the containers bear no distinguishing
marks, a statement to that effect should be made.

Quantity Inspected. Report the number of containers, the weight of
the contents, and the total net weight of the lot. When the weight of
the contents is not marked, or is not uniform, report the number of
containers and the total net weight of the lot, obtaining the latter
from the applicant. If the inspector has not counted the containers,
or reports a total net weight furnished by the applicant or other
parties, the source of information must be shown as, for example,
"Applicant's count", "Applicant's count and weight" or "manifested
as."

LOADING

If a lot is being loaded into a car, truck or trailer, describe the
arrangement of the containers. Otherwise merely make a statement
regarding the location of the lot as, for example, "stacked in
applicant's warehouse."

PACK

Block out this heading unless certification of weight is requested.

TEMPERATURE

Block out this heading.

SIZE

There is no size requirement in either the U.S. No. 1 or U.S. No. 2
grade. However, size usually is specified in connection with the
grade. The U.S. Standards provide size designations which may be used
in specifying size and which are based upon a combination of count per
pound and weight of the 10 smallest nuts in a representative 100 nut
sample. Size also may be specified in accordance with the maximum
number per pound or the range in number per pound with reference to
the weight of the smallest nuts. The size may also be specified as an
exact number per pound. In addition, size may be described in terms


(78)

(79)

(80)

(81)

(82)

- 20 -

reported as "U.S. No. 1 Light" or "U.S. No. 1 Light Amber".
Otherwise, it may be necessary to report that the lot grades U.S.
No.1, but fails to grade U.S. No. 1 Light Amber because of skin color.

Information which pertains to the lot but which does not properly
belong on any other portion of the certificate may be reported under
this heading.

Restricted Certificates. Any limitation of the portion of the lot
sampled, or limitations of the extent of the analysis of the grade
sample should be reported under "Remarks".

HOLDING SAMPLES

A check sample of a size equal to the sample used for analysis shall
be held in the inspection office for a period of at least 30 days.
This sample may be used later, in case a controversy arises over the
grade of the lot. The container of the sample should be plainly
marked with the date, applicant's name and car number or certificate
number. The kernels from the graded sample should be held for a few
days, in case a question should arise concerning the grading. It is a
good plan to place the serious kernel defects in one small bag or
envelope, the skin color defects in another, and the other defects in
a third bag.

THE CERTIFICATE

Following are some examples of suggested wordings for certificates of
inspection of in-shell pecans. Only those portions of the certificate
which are peculiar to pecans are discussed.

PRODUCTS : 1. PECANS IN THE SHELL in new burlap sacks branded
"Southland Brand, Southern Pecan Co., Albany,
Georgia, 100 lbs. net". Stenciled "Extra Large
Stuart". Manifested as 400 sacks, 40,000
pounds.


UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE
FRUIT AND VEGETABLE DIVISION
FRESH PRODUCTS BRANCH

SHIPPING POINT AND MARKET INSPECTION
OF
PECANS IN THE SHELL 1/

INTRODUCTION

There are two general classes of pecans: (1) named varieties, (1)
comprising about 25 percent of the total crop in most years and grown
chiefly east of the Mississippi River in the Southern states; (2)
seedling pecans, comprising approximately 75 percent of the crop and
grown principally in Texas, Oklahoma and states bordering the lower
Mississippi River. The named varieties are generally of larger size
than the seedlings, or native pecans, and a large proportion of the
better stock is distributed to the consumer in the shell. The poorer
quality stock is usually disposed of to shelling plants. Seedling
pecans are shelled commercially, with the exception of a small
percentage of larger sizes which are sold in the shell.

There are several hundred named varieties of pecans. In instances, (2)
these varieties have been developed from outstanding "seedling" trees

and are propagated by budding very young trees or grafting older

ones. Nuts from these named varieties are often called "improved
varieties," or "paper shells." The latter term is somewhat loosely

applied to cover the "improved varieties" in general. It is mre
accurately used when applied only to relatively thin-shelled varieties

such as Schley, Mahan or Frotscher. Commercially important varieties
include Schley, Stuart, Moneymaker, Success, Frotscher, Moore, Mobile,

1/7 Supersedes Shipping Point and Market Inspection Instructions, —
Pecans in the Shell, reissued September 1965.

REPRINTED OCTOBER 2002


-17-

Figure 1 illustrate the least amount of meatiness permitted in this
class. Kernels less than fairly well developed, classed as “poorly
developed", are scored as damaged. Any kernels having less meat

content than the minimum shown in Figure 1 for poorly developed are
classed as "undeveloped", and shall be scored as seriously damaged.

Each of the definitions of kernel development contains the words (65)
“amount of meat in proportion to its width and length". This phrase

means that a kernel from a smaller pecan need not be quite as thick as

one from a larger pecan to meet the minimum requirement of "fairly

well developed" or one of the other two stages of development.

When judging kernels for degree of development, it should not be (66)
necessary to cut a large percentage of the kernels, unless the lot
being graded is of only fair to poor quality. Cut only those kernels
which cannot be classified with certainty without cutting. In most
cases, looking at both sides of the half-kernel and squeezing them
will be sufficent to determine whether they are fairly well or well
developed. A kernel which is thick through the center and very solid
when squeezed has little or no hollow center and has ample meat.
However, a few of the apparently meaty kernels should be cut in the
beginning of the inspection, in order to make sure that they are what
they seem to be.

Kernels should be cut crosswise about midway of the length of the half (67)
when judging development. However, the definitions are so worded that

the length of the kernel shall be considered. If the end of either

half of a kernel is badly shrunken, that kernel may have insufficient

total meat to be classed as "fairly well developed", even though the
cross-section cut may be as thick as shown in Figure 1. When a kernel

is close to borderline for either fairly well developed or poorly

developed, both halves shall be cut and the decision based upon the

average thickness of the two halves.

Kernel Spots. The definitions in the standards of damage and serious (68)
damage by kernel spots are quite specific. However, attention is

called to the fact that a kernel may have one dark spot less than 1/8
inch in greatest dimension on each half, and the kernel is not classed

as damaged.


spender L

United States Standards



= 99 =

REPORTING QUALITY

The "quality" section of the certificate should be filled in with a
description of the lot in three respects: 1. general appearance
(including a statement on extraneous material only if it exceeds the
0.5 percent tolerance); 2. external (shell) defects; and, 3.
internal (kernel) defects.

Condition. Pecans are a very stable commdity after they have become
cured and fully dried. They are rarely subject to change in quality
due to so-called "condition" factors common in perishable
commodities. Only when a lot has become wet with water or otherwise
affected in some unusual way should a condition factor be mentioned.
As a general rule, insect injury, rancidity, mold or decay are defects
which develop during the growth or harvesting of the pecans.

REPORTING GRADE

Under the "Grade" heading, there should be a statement of the grade of
the lot, either U.S. No. 1 or U.S. No. 2, if the lot meets the
requirements of one of then. In some cases, when a lot does not meet
grade requirements, the applicant may request that we report the
percentage of U.S. No. 1 kernel quality. This may be done by
subtracting the combined percentages of kernel defects, including
those damaged by dark amber skin color, from 100 percent. The
remainder will be the percentage of U.S. No. 1 quality kernels.

Size should be reported in connection with the Grade, although it is
not a factor in determining grade. It may be reported in terms of
meeting a certain size classification; or failing to meet a certain
size classification, because of count per pound or percentage weight
of the 10 smallest nuts per 100. If so requested, size may be
described on the basis of a range of diameter, or on the basis of
count per pound without reference to the 10 smallest nuts.

Kernel Color. If the sample is graded by request on the basis of
"light amber" or "light" kernel color classification, this factor also
shall be covered in connection with the grade statement. Assuming
that all kernel defects, including kernels darker than the specified
color, are within the U.S. No. 1 grade tolerances, the lot may be

(73)

(74)

(75)

(76)

(77)


(48)

(49)

(50)

(51)

(52)

(53)

-14-

"Damaged in general appearance" may be used to describe lots
containing very many slight shell blemishes, even though most of then
are not large enough to be scored on the individual nut basis. Such
lots fail to meet the requirements of both U.S. No. 1 and U.S. No. 2.,
even though they may meet the internal quality requirements.

Finish of Shell. To complete the general description of appearance, a
few words should be added to describe the treatment given to the
shells. Use the words natural, bleached, dyed, or waxed or
combinations of these words, along with the statement describing the
degree of uniformity of color.

GRADING INDIVVIDUAL NUTS

The number of nuts to be graded individually shall be as stated in
paragraph 16. In no case should the number be less than 100, and in
cases where the sample is borderline for grade defects, it may be
necessary to grade an additional 100, 200 or more nuts to arrive at a
clear-cut grade determination.

Two Separate Gradings. The 100,200,300, or larger sized sample shall
be completely graded and scored for shell defects, without any
attention to what the kernel content may be. Then all of the same
nuts shall be cracked and graded individually, without any reference
to the shell of the nut. In other words, the two gradings are
completely separate and independent.

Shell Defects. The standards provide definitions of defects which are
classed as damage or serious damage. Most of the definitions should
need no further explanation, but a few quality factors are discussed
as follows:

Cracks. When the shell is cracked and the edges of the crack remain
close togther leaving practically no opening, the nut should not be
scored as damaged. The "slight pressure" referred to in the
definition of damage shall be interpreted to mean no more pressure
than you would use to test a ripe strawberry. Unless such delicate

pressure causes the crack to separate noticeably, the nut shall not be
scored.


(12)

(13)

(14)

(15)

(16)

Carlot or Truck Load. Select master containers at random at the rate
of 1 out of 25. Take 1 consumer package out of each master container
selected.

Less than Carlot. Regardless of size of lot select 20 master
containers at random when consumer packages are 1-pound units; select
15 master containers when consumer packages are 2-pound units. Take 1
consumer package out of each master container selected. When lots
contain 20 or less master containers with 1-pound units or 15 or less
master containers with 2-pound units, a consumer package shall be
taken from each master container in the lot.

Take some of the packages from the upper and some from the lower
portions of the containers. Each of the consumer size bags removed
shall be replaced with a bag from another mster container selected
for this purpose. When the consumer size packages have been
collected, open them and thoroughly mix together the nuts to forma
composite sample representing the lot. This can be done by pouring
the nuts from one cardboard carton into another, two or three times.
Reduce this sample to the size required for sizing and grading. tf
the sample is drawn at the processing plant and the packer is able to
delay sealing the master containers until after the sample is drawn,
the additional work of opening and resealing the cartons may be
avoided. Inspectors who are assigned full time to processing plants
may draw sample sacks from the packaging line before they are sealed,
provided they observe the entire process of packaging and can
definitely establish the identity of the lot. This will avoid
damaging the bags as would be necessary otherwise.

The inspector may be asked to draw the sample from bins or large sacks
before the lot has been packaged in consumer size packages. The
inspector should not draw the sample until the pecans are actually in
the containers which will be described on the certificate.

Size of Sample. The quantity of pecans taken for inspection should be
twice as large as the amount required for grading plus at least 100

additional nuts to be graded or sized in borderline cases. This will
provide for a check sample, equal in size to the graded sample, to be
held for a period of thirty days. Pecans are a relatively high-priced


pieces of kernels, and weighed to deter-
mine edible kernel content for the lot.

(b) Poorly developed kernel content.
A minimum sample of at least 500 grams
of in-shell pecans shall be used for deter-
mination of poorly developed kernel con-
tent. The amount of poorly developed
kernels and pieces of kernels shall be
weighed to determine poorly developed
kernel content of the lot (see § 51.1411
and Figure 1).

(c) Edible kernel content color classi-
fication. The amount of “Light,” ight
amber,” “Amber,” “Dark amber” and
darker shades of skin color shall be de-
termined according to § 51.1403, Kernel
Color Classification. The total weight of
edible kernels and pieces of kernels shall
be the basis for determining color clas-
sification content for the lot.

(d) Kernel moisture content. The
sample of pecans for determination of
kernel moisture content shall be shelled
immediately before analysis and all
shells, center wall and other non-kernel

#U.S. Government Printing

6

material removed. The air-oven or other
methods or deviees which give equiva-~
lent results shall be used for moisture
content determination.

These standards shall become effective
on October 15, 1976, and will thereupon
supersede the United States Standards
for Pecans In The Shell which has been
in effect since September 15, 1972, (7
CFR 51.1400-51.1415).

Dated: September 9, 1976.

Donatp E, WILKINSON,
Administrator.

[FR Doc.76-26886 Filed 9-14-76;8:45 am]

GPO 912-678

Office : 107 -201-053/60627


which is darker than dark brown (very
dark-brown or blackish-brown discolora-
tion).

(4) “Dark amber” means that more
than 25 percent of the outer surface of
the kernel is dark brown, with not more
than 25 percent of the outer surface
darker than dark brown (very dark-
brown or blackish-brown discoloration).

(b) U.S. Department of Agriculture
kernel color standards, Pec-MC-1, con-
sisting of plastic models of pecan kernels,
illustrate the color intensities implied
by the terms “golden,” “light brown,”
“medium brown” and “dark brown”
referred to-in paragraph (a) of this
section. These color standards may be
examined in the Fruit and Vegetable
Division, AMS, U.S. Department of Agri-
culture, South Building, Washington,
D.C. -20250; in any field office of .the
Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Inspection
Service; or upon request of any author-
ized inspector of such service. Dupli-
cates of the color standards may be
purchased from NASCO, Fort Atkinson,
Wisconsin 53538.

‘TOLERANCES
§ 51.1404 Tolerances.

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

(a) U.S. No. I—(1) For shell defects,
by count. (i) 5 percent for pecans with
damaged shells, including therein not
more than 2 percent for shells which are
seriotsly damaged.

(2) For kernel defects, by count. (i) 12
percent for pecans with kernels which
fail to meet the requirements for the
grade or any specified color classifica-
tion, including therein not more than
7 percent for kernels which are seriously
damaged: Provided, That not more than
six-sevenths of this amount, or 6 per-
cent, shall be allowed for kernels which
are rancid, moldy, decayed or injured
by insects: And provided further, That
included in this 6 percent tolerance not
more than one-half of one percent shall
be allowed for pecans with live insects
inside the shell.

Gi) In addition, 8 percent for kernels
which fail to meet the color requirements
for the grade or for any specified color
classification, but which are not seriously
damaged by dark discoloration of the
skin: Provided, That these kernels meet
the requirements for the grade other
than for skin color.

(3) For loose extraneous or foreign
material, by weight. (1) 0.5 percent (one-
half of 1 percent).

(b) U.S. No. 2—(1) For shell defects,
by count. (i) 10 percent for pecans with
damaged shells, including therein not
more than 3 percent for shells which are
seriously damaged.

(2) For kernel defects, by count. (i)
30 percent for pecans with kernels which
fail to meet the requirements of the U.S.
No. 1 grade, including therein not more
than 10 percent for pecans with kernels
which are seriously damaged: Provided,
That not more than seven-tenths of this
amount, or 7 percent, shall be allowed for
kernels which are rancid, moldy, decayed
or injured by insects: And provided fur-
ther, That included in this 7 percent
tolerance not more than one-half of
one percent shall be allowed for pecans
with live insects inside the shell.

(3) For loose extraneous or foreign
material, by weight. (i) 0.5 percent (one-
half of 1 percent).

APPLICATION OF TOLERANCES
§ 51.1405 Application of tolerances.

Individual 100-count samples shall
have not more than one and one-half
times a specified tolerance of 5 percent
or more ani not more than double a
tolerance of less than 5 percent, except
that at least one pecan which is seriously
damaged by live insects inside the shell
is permitted: Provided, That the averages
for the entire lot are within the toler-
ances specified for the grade.

SAMPLE For GRADE OR SIZE DETERMINATION
§ 51.1406 Sample for grade or size de-
termination.

Each sample shall consist of 100 pe-
cans. The individual sample shall be
drawn at random from a sufficient num-
ber of packages to form a 100-count
composite sample. The number of such
andividual 100-count samples drawn for
grade or size determination will vary
with the size of the lot. When practica-
ble, at point of packaging the sample
may be obtained from the grading belt
after sorting has been completed.

DEFINITIONS.
§ 51.1407 Fairly uniform in.color.

“Fairly uniform in color” means that
the shells do not, show sufficient variation
in color to materially detract from the
general appearance of the lot.

§ 51.1408 Loose extraneous or foreign
material.

“Loose extraneous or foreign material”
means loose hulls, empty broken shells,


INSPECTION EQUIPMENT

The following equipment is needed in the inspection of pecans in the (5)
shell:

Scales, preferably one-pound or half-pound capacity; gram scales
may be used.

Sizing Card, preferably of aluminum or other sheet metal,but
fibre is satisfactory. It should be provided with 7 slot-shaped
openings about 2-1/2 inches long and with widths varying from
10/16 to 16/16 inch in gradations of 1/16 inch.

Nut Cracker. Several types of nut crackers or nut shellers are
available. The most satisfactory cracker is a lever type which
applies pressure at the ends of the nut. A small screw-type
cracker applies pressure at the ends but is slower than the lever
type. There is an excellent hand sheller equipped with sharp
jaws which snip off the shell in four operations. The ordinary
household type of nut cracker which squeezes the nut between two
bars is not satisfactory due to the likelihood of crushing the
kernel.

Sample Board. This is a square of board or plywood about 14 x 14
inches with 10 rows of 10 holes each. The holes should be 1 inch
in diameter and about 3/4 inch deep. Such a board provides a
means of arranging the cracked pecans before and during the
scoring of internal defects.

Inspectors who are stationed at processing plants or warehouses
should be provided with the following:

Tables or Bench, large enough for cracking and grading
operations.

Adequate Light. A fluorescent light, or a strong "daylight"
bulb, is preferable to natural daylight because it will provide
approximately the same intensity of light at all times,
permitting more uniform interpretation of such factors as color
and discoloration. The inspector should not proceed with an
inspection unless adequate lighting is available.


(3)

(4)

Van Deman, Mahan and Teche. Mixtures or "blends" of two or more of
these and other varieties are common. Schley, a very thin shelled nut
of high quality, commnds a premium price and is seldom blended with
other varieties.

Pecans are delivered by the growers to the buyer, handler or processor
in lots ranging from a few pounds to several thousand pounds. Various
types of sacks are used but heavy jute coffee sacks are common. Some
growers may run their pecans over a rack in order to remove trash such
as leaves, grass, twigs, loose hulls, etc., and to sort out the
obvious defects. Others deliver nuts which have not been sorted and
which may contain lightweight or empty shells, oil stained or badly
discolored shells and other defects. The small buyer my sell toa
large dealer or to a processor. He may grade his stock to some extent
or he may sell direct to truckers or to retailers. Large handlers and
some smaller ones are equipped to mechanically size, sort, and clean
pecans .

Pecans are sized by machines having rotating cylinders with successive
sections provided with openings of certain sizes. These openings are
usually 2-1/2 inches long and vary from 8/16 to 15/16 inch in width,
the gradations being in sixteenths of an inch. Lightweight or empty
shells, known as "pops" or "blows", are removed by means of suction
devices. The shells may be left in the natural state, in which case
they will retain the normal dark streaks and other markings. In most
plants they are "bleached" by passing then through a revolving
cylinder containing sand and water. They emerge from this with a
smooth, light-colored surface. Usually after this bleaching they are
polished in a revolving drum containing wax. Prior to waxing, a
yellow or red dye may be added to produce an attractive color of the
shells. The final color will vary from a light yellowish-brown to a
reddish-brown, depending upon the processor and the preference of the
consumers in the area for which the finished product is destined.
After this processing, the pecans are packed in one of several types
of containers, ranging from 1 lb. transparent film bags to 100 lbs.
burlap sacks.


= [5 =

Stains. This term refers to blemishes such as the splotchy, dark gray
or black areas caused by the action of husk worm, or to oil-soaked
spots on the shell. If either of these types of stains are dark,
conspicuous, and in excess of the 5 percent or 20 percent area of

the surface, the nut should be scored as damaged or seriously damaged
respectively.

Spotty Dye. Usually dyed nuts are about the same color over the
entire surface. A slight to moderate mottling of the dye coloring
should not be considered as materially detracting from the appearance
of the individual nut. However, in rare instances there may be
individual nuts having extremely bad looking mottling which may be
scored as damaged under the general definition.

Shape. There is no requirement for shape in the standards, and a
misshapen nut shall not be scored as defective.

Kernel Defects. Crack each pecan as gently as possible, so as to
avoid shattering the kernel, and thus permit more accurate grading.
It is better to examine each kernel as it is removed from the shell,
before they get mixed together. A discussion of grade factors
follows.

Curing. Lots which have been packing-house graded rarely contain nuts
which are not "well cured" as defined in the standards. New crop lots
which have just been harvested may have considerable numbers of nuts
which have not yet dried. Nuts which are not well cured are scored as
damaged. Given time and good ventilation, such kernels will usually
dry without molding, and they will then meet the U.S. No. 1 Grade
requirement.

Skin Color. The color classifications provided in the standards are
defined to permit a kernel in a certain class to have up to one-fourth
of its surface one color classification darker than the color over the
majority of the kernel's surface. For example, 75 percent of the
entire outer surface could be "amber", the other 25 percent could be
"dark amber", and the kernel would be classed as "amber". Include the
outer surface of both halves of the kernel when estimating the area
affected.

(54)

(55)

(56)

(857)

(58)

(59)


Watch for loose hulls and other foreign material when drawing the (9)
sample, and remember that heavy material such as dirt and stones will
settle to the lower portion of the container. When excessive foreign
material is present or suspected, the entire contents of each
container selected as a sample should be emptied out into other
containers or onto a canvas spread on the floor or ground, in order to
determine whether the appearance of the sample is mterially or
seriously affected. In such cases, the composite sample can be
selected at random while the contents of the container is emptied

out. Uncleaned pecans usually are packed in used sacks and the
inspector should be particularly alert for foreign material in such
lots.

Mixed Lots. When the lot contains two or more distinctly different (10)
qualities or sizes of nuts in separate containers, each quality or
size should be considered as a separate lot if the different lots can
be identified by distinguishing marks, or if the size and location of
the lot makes segregation of the different qualities or sizes
feasible. When drawing the sample, keep the nuts from each such lot
in a separate container. Grade them separately and report the grade
and size on each lot separately. If the portion of the lot
represented by the containers of decidedly different nuts cannot be
identified or segregated, the inspection shall be made on the basis of
the composite sample from the entire lot, with a notation on the
certificate under "Quality and Condition" regarding the lack of
uniformity. Sacks containing shriveled or light-weight nuts sometimes
may be detected because they will be fuller than sacks of the same
weight containing good quality nuts. It is very important when
drawing the sample to observe the appearance and any irregularity in
quality and size in different containers; otherwise, inferior quality
and smaller size may be certified on the basis of a higher grade and
size classification than is justified by the lot.

Consumer Size Packages. Pecans in the shell are sometimes shipped in (11)
consumer packages such as 1-pound or 2-pound transparent film bags

packed in large master shipping containers. These lots shall be

sampled as follows:


1.

-21-

PECANS IN THE SHELL in transparent film bags,
24 bags per master carton. Bags and cartons
printed "Dixie Gem Pecans, Dixie Pecan Co.,
Mobile, Alabama". Bags printed "1 lb net".
Lot contains 75 cartons, equivalent 1,800 lbs.

Average 58 nuts per pound. 10 smallest nuts (83)
per 100 nuts weigh 8.2% of weight of 100.

Average 78 nuts per pound. 10 smallest nuts
per 100 nuts weigh 6.5% of weight of 100.

Irregular. Average 63 nuts per pound.

Ranging from 11/16 to 15/16, mostly 12/16 to
14/16 inch in diameter.

Shells dyed brown, polished and fairly uniform (84)
in color. External defects of U.S. No. 1 grade
within tolerance. Kernels well cured, mostly

light amber. 26 percent defects of U.S. No. 1

grade, mostly poorly developed, some dark

amber, and including 4 percent seriously

damaged by mold or insects.

Shells bleached and polished, uniform in
color. External defects within tolerance for
U.S. No. 1. Kernels mostly well developed,
many fairly well developed. Internal defects
within tolerance for U.S. No. 1.

Shells natural and unpolished. General
appearance damaged by many husk worm stains.
12 percent external grade defects, mostly
damaged by stains or adhering husks. Kernels
well cured, generally well to fairly well
developed; defects within tolerance for U.S.
No. 2 grade.


United States
Department of
Agriculture

Agricultural
Marketing
Service

Fruit and
Vegetable
Division

Fresh Products
Branch

Washington, DC

February 1968

Pecans
in the Shell

Inspection
Instructions



(21)

(22)

(23)

(24)

(25)

defects. The percentage of internal defects is considered separately
from the percentage of external defects in determining grade. After
the size has been determined, the same nuts are used for determining
the percentage of external defects, and then cracked, shelled and
arranged in the sample board for the scoring of internal defects.

The information which should be recorded under the various certificate
headings is discussed in the following paragraphs. Instructions for
making the size determinations and for scoring defects also are given.

INSPECTION POINT

This is the station or siding, the address of the processing plant or
warehouse, or other location at which the lot was sampled.

KIND OF CAR

Pecans in the shell are shipped in box, ventilated box or refrigerator
cars, and in trucks or trailers. If a truck or trailer is used, block
out the word "CAR" in this heading, inserting "TRUCK" or "TRAILER",
and indicate whether Refrigerator, Covered or Open.

CAR INITIALS AND NUMBER

It is essential that car initials and numbers be correctly recorded.
The initials and number recorded should be those on the outside of the
ear. Truck or trailer license numbers should be reported in this
space; blocking out "Car Initials and Number" and inserting "Truck
License Number" or "Trailer License Number."

Car numbers or truck or trailer license numbers should be shown under
this heading only when the car, truck, or trailer is actually loaded
prior to or during the course of the inspection. If the applicant
requests that a lot be identified with a car or truck to be loaded at
a later time the inspector should show under this heading "See
REMARKS". Under "REMARKS" report as follows: "Applicant states that
the above lot to be loaded into car FGEX 52470."

INSPECTION BEGUN. .



commodity and the inspector should be careful to draw only the
necessary amount, thus diminishing waste and eliminating possible
criticism. The minimum number of nuts to be used in determining the
grade and size shall be as follows:

Pounds in Lot Sample Graded
Up to 15,000 100 nuts
15,001 to 30,000 200 nuts
30,001 to 60,000 300 nuts

For each additional 20,000 pounds, or fractions thereof, use 100
additional nuts.

The above table indicates the minimum number of nuts to be graded in
each instance and an additional 100 or 200 nuts may be necessary in
borderline cases in order to mke a definite decision concerning
quality and size.

INSPECTION

The inspection should be completed promptly after the sample is (17)
drawn. The sample may be analyzed at the processing plant or

warehouse if adequate equipment is available or it may be taken to the
inspection office for analysis.

The composite sample should be very thoroughly mixed before drawing (18)
the sample to be analyzed. The mixing may be done by gently pouring

the nuts from one container to another six to eight times, being

careful not to break any shells in the process. The sample to be

analyzed should then be drawn at random from the thoroughly mixed

composite sample. The check sample should then be drawn in the same

manner. The remainder of the nuts should be held until the inspection

has been completed and may then be returned to the handler.

The inspection procedure consists of three distinct operations as (19)
follows:

1. Size determination.
2. External quality determination.
3. Internal quality determination.

Each of these operations, which will be discussed later, is separate (20)
and bears no relation to either of the others. Size is not a grade
factor and there are separate tolerances for internal and external


§ 51.1412 Well cured.

“Well cured” means that the kernel
separates freely from the shell, breaks
‘cleanly when bent, without splintering,
shattering, or loosening the skin; and the
kernel appears to be in good shipping or
storage condition as to moisture content.

§ 51.1413 Damage.

“Damage” means any specific defect
described in this section; or an equally
objectionable variation of any one of
these defects, or any other defect, or
any combination of defects, which ma-
terially detracts from the appearance or
the edible or marketing quality of the in-
dividual pecan or the general appearance
of the pecans in the lot. The following
defects shall be considered as damage:

(a) Adhering hull material or dark
stains affecting an aggregate of more
than 5 percent of the surface of the
individual shell;

(b) Split or cracked shells when the
shell is spread apart or will spread upon
application of slight pressure;

(ce) Broken shells when any portion
of the shell is missing;

(d) Kernels which are not well cured;

(e) Poorly developed kernels;

(f) Kernels which are dark amber in
color;

(g) Kernel spots when more than one
dark spot is present on either half of
the kernel, or when any such spot is
more than one-eighth inch (3 mm) in
greatest dimension;

(h) Adhering material from the inside
of the shell when firmly attached to
more than one-third of the outer sur-
face of the kernel and contrasting in
color with the skin of the kernel; and,

(i) Internal flesh discoloration of a
medium shade of gray or brown extend-
ing more than one-fourth inch (6 mm)
lengthwise beneath the center ridge, or
any equally objectionable amount in
other portions of the kernel; or lesser
areas of dark discoloration affecting the
appearance to an equal or greater ex-
tent.

§ 51.1414 Serious damage.

“Serious damage” means any specific
defect described in this section; or an
equally objectionable variation of any
one of these defects, or any other defect,
or any combination of defects, which
seriously detracts from the appearance
or the edible or marketing quality of the
individual pecan. The following defects
shall be considered as serious damage:

(a) Adhering hull material or dark
stains affecting an ageregate of more
than 20 percent of the individual shell;

(b) Broken shells when the missing
portion of shell is greater in area than a
circle one-fourth inch (6 mm) in diam-
eter;

(c) Worm holes when penetrating the
shell;

(d) Rancidity when the kernel is dis-
tinctly rancid to the taste. Staleness of
fiavor shall not be classed as rancidity;

(e) Mold, on the surface or inside the
kernel, which is plainly visible without
magnification:

(f) Decay affecting any portion of the
kernel;

(g) Insect injury when the insect,
web or frass is present inside the shell,
or the kernel shaws distinct evidence of
insect feeding;

(h) Kernel spots when more than
three dark spots on either half of
the kernel, or when any spot or the ag-
gregate of two or more-spots on one of
the halves of the kernel affects more
than 10 percent of the surface;

G) Dark discoloration of the skin
which is darker than dark amber over
more than 25 percent of the outer sur-
face of the kernel;

(j) Internal flesh discoloration of u
dark shade extending more than one-
third the length of the kernel beneath
the ridge, or an equally objectionable
amount of dark discoloration in other
portions of the kernel; and,

(k) Undeveloped kernels having prac-
tically no food value, or which are blank
(complete shell containing no kernel).

§ 51.1415 Inedible kernels.

“Inedible kernels” means that the
kernel or pieces of kernels are rancid,
moldy, decayed, injured by insects or
otherwise unsuitable for human con-
sumption.

OPTIONAL DETERMINATIONS
§ 51.1416 Optional determinations.

The determinations set forth herein
are not requirements of these standards.
They may be performed upon request in
connection with the grade determination
or as a separate determination. Samples
of pecans for these determinations shall
be taken at random from a composite
sample drawn throughout the lot.

(a) Edible kernel content. A minimum
sample of at least 500 grams of in-shell
pecans shall be used for determination
of edible kernel content. After the sam-
ple is weighed and shelled, edible appear-
ing half kernels and pieces of kernels
shall be separated from shells, center
wall, and other non-kernel material, and
inedible kernels (see §51.1415) and


or any substance other than pecans in
the shell or pecan kernels.
§ 51.1409 Well developed.

“Well developed” means that the ker-
nel has 8 large amount of meat in pro-
portion to its width and length (see
Figure 1).

851.1410 Fairly well developed.

“Fairly well developed” means that the
kernel has at least a moderate amount

4

of meat in proportion to its width and
length. Shriveling and: hollowness shall
be considered only to the extent that
they have reduced the meatiness of the
kernel (see Figure 1).

§ 51.1411 Poorly developed.

“Poorly developed” means that the
kernel has a small amount of meat in
proportion to its width and length (see
Figure 1).

PECAN CROSS SECTION ILLUSTRATION

Ci, Ohta am FH

‘le.

Lower limit.

WELL DEVELOPED

Kernels having less meat content

than these are not considered well developed.

COD ees oe PM

2.

Lower limit for U.S. No. 1 grade.

FAIRLY WELL DEVELOPED.

Kernels having

less meat content than these are not considered
fairly well developed and are classed as damaged.

Co eee YN

3.

POORLY DEVELOPED

Lower limit, damaged but not seriously damaged.
Kernels having less meat. content than these are
considered undeveloped and are classed as seri-

ously damaged.

Figure 1.


Revised January 31, 1974 BN-60-1(d)

(6)

(7)

(8)

SAMPLING

Importance of Proper Sampling. A lot pecans is more likely to lack
uniformity in quality than many other products. This is true because
the nuts in a shipment may have come from a number of growers in
widely separated areas and may have been grown under considerably
different conditions. Because of the likelihood of variation of
quality within the lot, it is essential that a representative sample
be obtained from all portions of the lot, whether it is located in a
warehouse, truck, or freight car. This means that all parts of the
lot must be available for sampling and the applicant will be expected
to furnish help to assist the inspector in getting containers from
inaccessible stacks in warehouses, trucks or cars, unless a
restricted certificate is acceptable. Inspections that are based on
samples which are not representative of the lot are of questionable
value, regardless of the accuracy of grade interpretation.

Number of Containers to Sample for Lots Other than Consumer Size
Packages. In lots of 50 or mre containers, approximately 1 out of
each 10 containers shall be sampled; in lots of from 5 to 50 at least
5 containers shall be sampled, and in lots of less than 5 all of the
containers shall be sampled.

Method of Sampling. Draw the sample from containers selected at
random from all parts of the stack or load. The quantity of nuts
taken from each sample will vary from a few nuts to a large handful or
more, depending upon the number and size of the containers sampled.
However, about the same quantity should be taken from each package. A
sufficient quantity should be taken from each to provide a sample for
grading, a check sample, and a small additional amount for grading in
borderline cases. Open the top of the sack or carton, being careful
to avoid unnecessary damage to the container, but draw the sample from
the central portion of some containers, from the bottom portion of
some and fron the top portion of other containers. In order to sample
fran the bottom portion of a large container, it will be necessary to
dump the entire contents into an empty container to make the bottom
readily accessible.


(69)

(70)

(71)

(72)

te

(72a)

Added, January 1995, HU-127-9(b)
Page 18, Para. 72a, Pecans in the Shell,
Inspection Instructions, February 1968

-18-

Adhering Material. Note that a kernel must have more than
one-third of the outer surface affected by material which is
firmly attached and contrasting in color before it may be
scored as damaged. A kernel might have velvety material over
most of its surface, but if there is not a noticeable contrast
in color, the kernel should not be scored.

Internal Flesh Discoloration. This defect usually can be
detected, or at least its presence can be suspected due to
discoloration at the point where the halves were attached, or
by a dark streak over the surface of the center ridge. To
determine the extent of the defect, the half-kernel should be
cut with a sharp knife, lengthwise of the kernel along the
center ridge. This cut usually makes it possible to determine
both the area affected and the intensity of the discoloration.

If the color is light gray or light brown, the kernel shall be
passed, even though it may extend the full length of the half-
kernel. A medium shade of gray or brown is not considered
damage if it extends less than one-fourth inch in the kernel.
If it extends more than one-fourth inch, even to the full
length of the half-kernel, it shall be scored as damage. When
a small area, less than one-fourth inch in length, is dark
gray or black and detracts from the appearance more than the
one-fourth inch of medium gray, the kernel shall be scored as
damaged. To be scoreable as serious damage, more than one-
third the length of the half-kernel must have dark
discoloration. Scoring of the kernel as either damaged or
serious damage shall be used based upon the worse of the two
halves.

Rancidity. Caution must be taken to avoid scoring a pecan as
rancid when it actually has only a stale, unattractive flavor.
Pecans which have been held over in storage are likely to have
poor flavor, but usually they are not actually rancid. Real
rancidity produces a very objectionable flavor. Nuts scored
as rancid fall into the more serious class of defects along
with mold, decay and insect injury.

Dye Discoloration. Occasionally lots of in shell pecans may
be dyed (usually red). If the shell has a slight crack or
other opening the kernel may be affected by the dye. Score
dye discoloration as damage when it materially affects the
appearance of the kernel; as serious damage when it seriously
affects the appearance of the kernel.

ed




ee

Added, January 1995, HU-127-9(a)
Page II, Table of Contents, Pecans in the Shell,
Inspection Instructions, February 1968

Ir

Count per Pound ..... eee cece cece cece reece cence neces
Percentage Weight of 10 Smallest Nuts per 100........
Determining Size Designation ......... cece eee eee e eee
Sizing by Diameter ......... cc cece eee cece cece eee nees

REPOEEUHG SLE) cas essen ae eRe s ENE SH TTT TS ATES Kew ee

GENERAL EXTERNAL APPEARANCE ...........-..+05 sete e weer eens

Extraneous and Foreign Material ...........seeeeeeeeee

Color of Shells
Finish of Shells..

GRADING INDIVIDUAL NUTS .......0 0c cece cece cree er ese nsec seeee
Two Separate Gradings..... Ore ew eee eeeees see eewe mem

Shell Defects ........ bee eeee eee eee eee e eee e eee eeeees

Kernel, Defects 6... e nce cveese seven seaseessesssias
Curing...... eer eee r rere rr reer seeee

Skin Color ..........22200- eee e eee ecacseceee .

Development (meatiness) ........... cesses eee eens
Kernel ‘Spots ...ccccsessncect erases sneune see eecceee
Adhering Material ........ cece eee cece ee eee eee eee

Internal Flesh Discoloration ............eeeeeeeeee

Rancidity

Dye Discoloration

REPORTING QUALITY ...
REPORTING GRADE .

Paragraph
Numbers
a. 36 42
«2. 37
«+. 38
ao. 39
«2. 40 41
wee 42
wee 43 49
wee 43
~ 44 48
- 49
as. 50 - 72
eee SL
wee 52 55
aoe 56
- 57 - 72
- 58
++. 59 - 63
wee 64 67
«+. 68
oe. 69
a. 70 a1,
T2a
74
77

79

86

thhe


= ii =

of the diameter of the smallest nuts or the range in diameters, stated
in sixteenths of an inch. In mst lots, the size will be specified in
terms of definite size designations such as "Medium", "Large", etc.
When the size is not specified the count per pound and the weight of
the 10 smallest nuts per 100 should be determined and reported under
the SIZE heading.

Count per pound. Weigh, as nearly as possible, an even pound of
pecans from the mixed sample. If gram scales are used, the pound-
equivalent weight is 453.6 grams. Count the nuts and record the
count. Weigh and count a second pound. Average the two counts, and
if the average count is clearly within the count range specified for
one of the size classifications, that shall be the count reported for
the lot. However, if the average of the two is on the borderline be-
tween two size classifications, make one or two more counts and
average all of them, to help decide which size classification should
be given the lot.

Percentage Weight of 10 Smllest Nuts per 100. Count out 100 nuts at
random from the mixed sample. Weigh the 100 nuts, preferably on gram
scales, but on pound-ounce scales if they are the only ones

available. Record the weight to the nearest gram, or in ounces to the
nearest one-fourth of an ounce. (Example: "810 grams" or "27.75
ounces". Spread the 100 nuts in a single layer, so that all may be
seen at once. Carefully select 10 which appear to be the smallest
among the 100. Sometimes it is easier to pick out 12 to 15 or mre to
start with, and then reduce the group down to 10 by putting back those
in the group which appear to be larger. Weigh the 10 smallest nuts to
the nearest gram or the nearest one-eighth of an ounce, and record the
weight. (Example: "67 grams" or "2.13 ounces". Now divide the
weight of the 10 smallest nuts by the weight of the 100 nut sample to
obtain the percentage weight of the 10 smallest. (In this example
2.13 divided by 27.75 gives 7.68 - report as 7.7%). If the 10 are
borderline for meeting the 7% weight requirement, use one or two ad-
ditional 100 nut samples to determine definitely whether the lot meets
the requirement for uniformity. If the average is less than 7.00%, do
not round it up to 7%, because the lot does not meet the size require—
ment.

(37)

(38)


-13-

classifications, the name of that classification shall be added to the
grade statement. Example: "U.S. No. 1 Large".

GENERAL EXTERNAL APPEARANCE

Extraneous and Foreign Material. This is almost never a factor of
importance, but lots coming directly from the orchard may contain
enough trash to be objectionable. If a considerable amount is
present, weigh the entire sample, sort out and weigh the foreign
material and determine the percentage. Unless the percentage exceeds
the grade tolerance of 0.5 percent, or unless the applicant requests
that it be reported, the percentage need not be mentioned on the
certificate.

Color of Shells. A statement should always be made describing the
general appearance of the shells. This is based primarily upon color
which is determined to a large extent by bleaching, brushing, sanding,
and dying processes, but also in some cases by the presence of many
slight blemishes. U.S. No. 1 grade requires that the lot be at least
“fairly uniform in color." U.S. No. 2 grade has no requirement for
uniformity of color, but does exclude lots which are damaged in

general appearance by numerous stains or bits of attached husks or
other means.

Terms to be used in describing general appearance are as follows:

“Uniform in color" should be applied only to the best lots with no
more than very slight variation between nuts, and none with distinct
contrasting color.

"Fairly uniform in color" will be applicable to the great majority of
lots which have had uniform treatment of the shells or which are
"natural". As a guide, a lot may have up to but not over 5 percent
nuts with sharply contrasting color, and the lot still be classed as
fairly uniform.

“Irregular in color" will be the term to describe lots which have a
mixture of contrasting colors. Even though most of the nuts may be
classed as fairly uniform, the lot as a whole shall be classed as
irregular if it contains more than 5 percent nuts of sharply
contrasting color. Such lots are permitted in U.S. No. 2.

(43)

(44)

(45)

(46)

(47)


TABLE. OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION ...ccccsscccccccccccncccseee
INSPECTION EQUIPMENT ......
Sh Ce rey

Importance of Proper Sampling .......eseeccccececcccees
Number of Containers to be Sampled .........sccseccecee
Method of Sampling .....ccccccccccccccccccccccccccccces
Loose Hulls and Other Foreign Material .......eeesseeee
Mixed LOTS ..cccccccscecccccccecesccsccereeceeccecscees
Consumer PUCkages wccccccccccccccccvcccccccccsccccceses
Size Of SaMPleS cccceciaccvesavesewssscitecacausnsassmve

INSPECTION 2... cccccccccccccccc ccc ccceccsecsccseescesesssees
INSPECTION POINT ........

KIND OF CAR 22... cece cccccccccccccccccccccccsnsccceescceeces
CAR INITIALS AND NUMBER ......ccccecccccccccccsccccceccccccs
INSPECTION BEGUN — COMPLETED ........seccecccccccccccecceee
CONDITION OF CAR ...cccccccccccccccccccccccccccccccccceccccs

Type of Nut ......
Type of Container

Identifying Marks ..
Quantity Inspected ......

LOADING ..cccccccccccccccccccccccccccccssccccececcceeccccces

PACK oc ccccccccccccccccccccccccccccece oe

TEMPERATURE 2.222 scccccccccccccccccccccccccccccccsccsccccces

11

17


(85)

(86)

GRADE:

REMARKS :

a= BD =

U.S. No. 2, Extra Large. Contains 74 percent
U.S. No. 1 quality kernels.

U.S. No. 1, Large.

Fails to grade U.S. No. 2 account damaged
general appearance of shells and shell defects
in excess of tolerance. Count 63 nuts per
pound. Contains 72% U.S. No. 1 quality
kernels.

Inspection restricted to accessible portion of
load consisting of sacks in 2 upper layers.

Size determined on basis of count per pound
only at applicant's request.

Size based on diameter measurement at
applicant's request.






2

UNITED STATES STANDARDS FOR GRADES OF

PECANS IN TH

E SHELL1

(41 E.R. 39303)
Effective October 15, 1976

GRADES
Bec.

51.1400 US. No.
61.1401 US.

S1zE CLASSIFICATION
51.1402 Size classification.
KERNEL CoLor CLASSIFICATION

51.1403 Kernel color classification.
‘TOLERANCES

51.1404 Tolerances.

APPLICATION OF TOLERANCES

Application of tolerances.

FOR GRADE OR SizE DETERMINATION

Sample for grade or size determina-
tion.

51.1405
SAMPLE
51.1406

DEFINITIONS

51.1407
51.1408

Fairly uniform in color.

Loose extraneous or foreign ma-
terial.

‘Well developed.

Fairly well developed.

Poorly developed.

Well cured,

Damage.

Serious damage.

Inedible kernel.

OPTIONAL DETERMINATIONS:
51.1416 Optional determinations.

AurTHoRITY: Secs. 203, 205, 60 Stat. 1087, as
amended, 1090 as amended; (7 U.S.C. 1622,
1624).

51.1409
51.1410
61.1411
51.1412
61.1413
51.1414
51,1415

GRADES
§ 51.1400 U.S. No. 1.

“U.S. No. 1” consists of pecans in the
shell which meet the following require-
ments:

(a) Free from loose extraneous or
foreign material

(b) Shells are: (1) Fairly uniform in
color; and, (2) Free from damage by any
cause.

(c) Kernels are: (1) Free from dam-
age by any cause.

(d) For tolerances see § 51.1404.

1Packing of the product in conformity
with the requirements of these standards
shall not excuse failure to comply with the
provisions of the Federal Foot, Drug, and

Cosmetic Act or with applicable State laws
and regulations,

§ 51.1401 U.S. No. 2.

The requirements for this grade are
the same as for U.S. No. 1 except for:

(a) No requirement for uniformity of
color of shells; and,

(b) Increased tolerances for defects
see § 51.1404.

Size CLASSIFICATION
§ 51.1402 Size classification.

Size of pecans may be specified in con-
nection with the grade in accordance
with one of the following classifications.
To meet the requirements for any one of
these classifications, the lot must con-
form to both the specified number of
nuts per pound and the weight of the 10
smallest nuts per 100 nut sample.

Bize Number of Minimum weight of
classification nuts per the 10 smallest nuts
pound in « 100-nut sample

--)In each classifieatfon,
the 10 smallest nut?
per 100 must weigh
at least 7 pet of the
total weight of a
100-nut samplo

KERNEL COLOR CLASSIFICATION
§ 51.1403 Kernel color classification.

(a) The skin color of pecan kernels
may be described in terms of the color
classifications provided in this section.
When the color of kernels in a lot gen-
erally conforms to the “light” or “light
amber” classification, that color classi-
fication may be used to describe the lot
in connection with the grade.

() “Light” means that the outer sur-
face of the kernel is mostly golden color
or lighter, with not more than 25 percent
of the outer surface darker than golden,
none of which is darker than light browr

(2) “Light amber” means that more
than 25 percent of the outer surface of
the kernel is light brown, with not more
than 25 percent of the outer surface
darker than light brown, none of which
is darker than medium brown.

(3) “Amber” means that. more than
25 percent of the outer surface of the
Kernel is medium brown, with not more
than 25 percent of the outer surface
darker than medium hrown, none of


These headings refer to the date and time that the sample was drawn (26)
and the date and time that the analysis of the sample was completed,
respectively.

QONDITION OF CAR

The condition of a truck or trailer should be reported under this (27)
heading, blocking out "CAR" and inserting the appropriate word. Under

this heading mention any defect in the car, truck or trailer that

might cause damage to the shipment. Such items as leaky roofs, holes

in floors and contamination of the floor or walls by grease may

properly be shown. Report any special preparation of car or truck

such as papering of floor or walls or boarding of doorways. In case

of refrigerator cars indicate the position of hatch covers and plugs.

PRODUCTS
Mention under this heading: (28)

1. Type of nut, when specifically requested.
2. Type of container.
3. Identifying marks.
4. Quantity inspected.

Type of Nut. When specifically requested by the applicant the general (29)
type may be shown as, for example, "Blocky type", "long type", "short

type" or a "blend" or mixture of types. The inspector should not

attempt to certify the variety of pecans. Variety names should not be

shown on the certificate except when quoting markings on containers or

tags.

‘Type of Container. Pecans are packed in several different types of (30)
containers. The most common are 100-lb. and 50-lb. burlap sacks.

50-lb. and 25 lb. paper net or cotton net sacks, and consumer-size

paper net sacks containing 5 to 10 lbs. are used frequently. Some
processors pack 5 lb., 10 lb. or 25 lb. pasteboard cartons. One pound
transparent film bags, packed in fibreboard shipping cases are

becoming popular. Used heavy jute coffee sacks are commonly used by

growers for delivery to handlers and sometimes for shipment to

market. Be sure to indicate whether containers are new or used.

Identifying Marks. Show in quotation marks all brands, packers' or (31)
shippers' names and addresses, variety, grade and size marks and lot


(39)

(40)

(41)

(42)

-12-

Determing Size Designation. When the count per pound has been
established, and the 10 smallest nuts per 100 have been found to
constitute 7 percent or more of the weight of the 100 - nut sample,
the lot may be designated as meeting the size designation within the
count range of which the particular count falls. Regardless of the
number of nuts per pound, the lot cannot meet any size classification
if the 10 smllest nuts weigh less than 7 percent of the weight of the
100-nut sample.

Sizing by Diameter. An applicant may request that size be determined
and reported on the basis of diameter of the pecans. Although this
method is not mentioned in the standards, it shall be applied to the
lot if requested. In such cases, from 100 to 300 nuts should be
measured, and the percentage in each size bracket on the overall range
and the "mostly" range in diameter should be reported.

The pecan industry generally uses sizing reels with slot opening of
various widths measured in sixteenths of an inch. The range from
10/16 to 16/16 inch slots on our sizing card covers practically all
sizes which are ever sold in the shell. To measure, lay the nut on
the slot, turn it over, and if it drops through without pressure,
place it in the next lower size. Class each nut for size as to the
largest slot which it will ride. A typical lot might have a
distribution like this: 16/16 - 7%; 15/16 - 38%; 14/16 - 51%; 13/16 -
4h.

Reporting Size. The method of describing size on the certificate
shall depend upon the request of the applicant or upon the size
markings on the containers. When grading the sample on the basis of
one of the size classifications, always report under the "Size"
heading the number of nuts per pound and the percentage weight of the
10 smallest nuts per 100. The policy should be followed also if

no size is specified and none is marked on the containers. If sizing
is based upon diameter measurements, report the percentage of nuts of
each diameter, or show the range of diameter sizes and the limited
range covering most of the nuts. If requested to show only the
average number of nuts per pound, no mention shall be made of the
weight of the 10 smallest nuts. When a lot meets one of the size