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Crops

Inspection

Division

Equipment Catalog for

Fresh and Processed 

Products Inspections 

February 2024
Contained within the following pages is a list of equipment and visual aids approved for use in ascertaining grades

of fresh and processed fruits and vegetables. To order, complete an order form from here and email, fax or mail to

the Equipment & Forms Depot. The price and availability of any of the equipment and aids are subject to change

without notice.

If you have any questions, please contact:

Equipment & Forms Depot

USDA, AMS, SCP, SCI 

Phone: 650-552-9073 Fax: 540-361-1199

SCSupplyDepot@ams.usda.gov 

Further information as to the interpretation or application of these aids in accordance with the U.S. grade standards 

and copies of the grade standards are available from: 

Chief, Standardization Branch 

USDA, AMS, SCP, SCI 

100 Riverside Parkway, Suite 101 

Fredericksburg, VA 22406 

Phone: 540-361-1120 or 202-720-5021 or 202-720-5870 

Non-Discrimination Policy: In accordance with Federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations 

and policies, the USDA, its Agencies, offices, and employees, and institutions participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited 

from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity (including gender expression), sexual orientation, 

disability, age, marital status, family/parental status, income derived from a public assistance program, political beliefs, or reprisal or retaliation 

for prior civil rights activity, in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA (not all bases apply to all programs). Remedies and 

complaint filing deadlines vary by program or incident.

Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American 

Sign Language, etc.) should contact the responsible Agency or USDA's TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TTY) or contact USDA 

through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339. Additionally, program information may be made available in languages other than English.

To file a program discrimination complaint, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, AD-3027, found online at How to 

File a Program Discrimination Complaint and at any USDA office or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the 

information requested in the form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632-9992. Submit your completed form or letter to 

USDA by: (1) mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, 

Washington, D.C. 20250-9410; (2) fax: (202) 690-7442; or (3) email: program.intake@usda.gov. 

USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.
i 

FRESH FRUITS, VEGETABLES, NUTS, AND SPECIALTY PRODUCTS ............................................................................. 1

Equipment.................................................................................................................................................................... 2

Apple Corer............................................................................................................................................................... 2

Caliper I..................................................................................................................................................................... 2

Caliper II ................................................................................................................................................................... 2

Nut/Bolt Set for Caliper II......................................................................................................................................... 2

Caliper III.................................................................................................................................................................. 2

Caliper, Digital.......................................................................................................................................................... 2

Canvas Bucket........................................................................................................................................................... 3

Crate Opener ............................................................................................................................................................. 3

Area Gauge, IA #30G................................................................................................................................................ 3

Garlic Press............................................................................................................................................................... 3

Grading Table............................................................................................................................................................ 3

Knife I ....................................................................................................................................................................... 4

Knife II...................................................................................................................................................................... 4

Knife III..................................................................................................................................................................... 4

Knife III Edge Guard................................................................................................................................................. 4

Peanut Trier............................................................................................................................................................... 4

Pressure Tester I........................................................................................................................................................ 4

Pressure Tester II....................................................................................................................................................... 4

Fruit Peeler for Penetrometer .................................................................................................................................... 5

Quick Reference Manual........................................................................................................................................... 5

Refractometer............................................................................................................................................................ 5

Snips.......................................................................................................................................................................... 5

Texan Nut Sheller ..................................................................................................................................................... 5

Texan Nut Sheller Replacement Kit.......................................................................................................................... 6

Digital Thermometer................................................................................................................................................. 6

Scales and Check Weights........................................................................................................................................... 6

2 Pound Capacity Scale............................................................................................................................................. 6

4 Pound Capacity Scale............................................................................................................................................. 6

6 Pound Capacity Scale............................................................................................................................................. 6

25 Pound Capacity Scale........................................................................................................................................... 6

60 Pound Capacity Scale........................................................................................................................................... 6

32 Ounce Capacity Scale........................................................................................................................................... 7

70 Pound Capacity Scale........................................................................................................................................... 7

5 Pound Capacity Scale............................................................................................................................................. 7

Metal Check Weight Set (Pounds)............................................................................................................................ 7

1 Pound Check Weight.............................................................................................................................................. 7

2 Pound Check Weight.............................................................................................................................................. 7

5 Pound Check Weight.............................................................................................................................................. 8

10 Pound Check Weight............................................................................................................................................ 8

25 Pound Check Weight............................................................................................................................................ 8

Metal Check Weight Set (Grams) ............................................................................................................................. 8

50 Gram Check Weight............................................................................................................................................. 8

100 Gram Check Weight........................................................................................................................................... 8

200 Gram Check Weight........................................................................................................................................... 8

Sizers (Plastic & Metal)............................................................................................................................................... 9

California Cherry Sizer ............................................................................................................................................. 9

Washington Cherry Sizer .......................................................................................................................................... 9

Cranberry Sizer ......................................................................................................................................................... 9

General Purpose Sizer............................................................................................................................................... 9

Grape Sizer................................................................................................................................................................ 9

Florida Grapefruit Sizer ..........................................................................................................................................10

Potato, Special Sizer................................................................................................................................................10

Potato/Onion Sizer ..................................................................................................................................................10
ii

USDA Tomato Sizer ...............................................................................................................................................10

Florida Tomato Sizer...............................................................................................................................................10

Individual Sizing Blades (1/16” thick blades)...................................................................................................11

Individual Sizing Blade (4 x 4 single blade) ...........................................................................................................11

Individual Sizing Blade (single blade)....................................................................................................................11

Individual Sizing Blade (4 x 5 single blade) ...........................................................................................................11

Individual Sizing Blade (5 x 6 single blade) ...........................................................................................................11

Individual Sizing Blade (6 x7 single blade) ............................................................................................................11

Individual Sizing Blade (7 x8 single blade) ............................................................................................................11

Visual Aids ................................................................................................................................................................. 12

Apple Color Guide ..................................................................................................................................................12

Cherry, Sour Color Comparator..............................................................................................................................12

Cherry, Sweet Color Comparator............................................................................................................................12

Cucumber Color Comparator..................................................................................................................................12

Lime Color Comparator ..........................................................................................................................................12

Lettuce Color Comparator.......................................................................................................................................13

Onion I Color Comparator ......................................................................................................................................13

Onion II Color Comparator.....................................................................................................................................13

Peanut I Color Comparator .....................................................................................................................................13

Peanut II Color Comparator....................................................................................................................................13

Peanut III Visual Aid...............................................................................................................................................14

Peanut IV Visual Aid ..............................................................................................................................................14

Pear I Color Comparator .........................................................................................................................................14

Pear II Color Comparator........................................................................................................................................14

Pecan Color Comparators........................................................................................................................................14

Pistachio Color Comparator....................................................................................................................................14

Potato I Color Comparator......................................................................................................................................15

Potato II Color Comparator.....................................................................................................................................15

Potato Visual Aid Book...........................................................................................................................................15

Tomato Color Chart ................................................................................................................................................15

Walnut Color Chart .................................................................................................................................................15

Watermelon I Color Comparator.............................................................................................................................15

Watermelon II Color Comparator ...........................................................................................................................16

2 x 2 Slides..............................................................................................................................................................16

8 x 10 Black and White Photographs......................................................................................................................16

8 x 10 Color Photographs........................................................................................................................................16

PROCESSED FRUITS, VEGETABLES, AND SPECIALTY PRODUCTS..............................................................................17

Color Standards.........................................................................................................................................................18

Apple Butter............................................................................................................................................................18

Beans, Canned Lima ...............................................................................................................................................18

Beans, Frozen Lima.................................................................................................................................................18

Cherries, Frozen Red Tart .......................................................................................................................................19

Honey......................................................................................................................................................................19

Molasses, Sugarcane ...............................................................................................................................................19

Mushrooms, Canned................................................................................................................................................20

Olives, Canned Ripe................................................................................................................................................20

Orange Juice (Processed) ........................................................................................................................................20

Peaches, Canned Clingstone ...................................................................................................................................21

Peanut Butter...........................................................................................................................................................21

Peas, Frozen ............................................................................................................................................................21

Pimientos, Canned...................................................................................................................................................21

Potatoes, Frozen French Fried................................................................................................................................. 22

Pumpkin/Squash, Canned........................................................................................................................................22

Sauerkraut, Canned .................................................................................................................................................23

Tomatoes, Canned...................................................................................................................................................23

Tomato Products .....................................................................................................................................................23
iii

Photo Guides..............................................................................................................................................................24

Beans, Green & Wax...............................................................................................................................................24

Broccoli, Frozen......................................................................................................................................................24

Carrot, Frozen .........................................................................................................................................................24

Corn, Canned and Frozen Whole Kernel ................................................................................................................24

Corn, Canned...........................................................................................................................................................25

Corn on the Cob, Frozen .........................................................................................................................................25

Dates, Raisins, Prunes, and Canned Ripe Olives ....................................................................................................25

Peanut Butter...........................................................................................................................................................25

Other Guides & Inspection Aids ..............................................................................................................................26

Area Measurement Guide, 8 x 10 in English Units, IA#30A..................................................................................26

Area Measurement Guide, 8 x 10 in Metric Units ..................................................................................................26

Area Measurement Guide, IA #30B........................................................................................................................26

Area Measurement Guide, IA #30C........................................................................................................................26

Area Measurement Guide, IA #30E........................................................................................................................26

Area Measurement Guide, IA#30F .........................................................................................................................27

Canned Applesauce Test Kit, IA#105.....................................................................................................................27

Canned and Frozen Asparagus Sizer, IA#109.........................................................................................................27

Citrus Concentrate, Guide for Scoring Hesperidin, IA#82......................................................................................27

Citrus Juice, Guide for Scoring Dark Specks, IA#90..............................................................................................28

Frozen Strawberry Sizer, IA#68..............................................................................................................................28

Headspace Gauge ....................................................................................................................................................28

USDA Bean Sizer, IA#108 .....................................................................................................................................28

USDA Defect Grading Plate for Tomato Catsup and Apple Butter, IA#104..........................................................28

USDA Metric Sizer, IA#110...................................................................................................................................29

USDA Pea Sizer, IA#107........................................................................................................................................29

Universal Sizer, IA#106..........................................................................................................................................29

CARE AND USE GUIDES...............................................................................................................................................30

Color Standards.........................................................................................................................................................31

General....................................................................................................................................................................31

Honey......................................................................................................................................................................32

Sugarcane Molasses ................................................................................................................................................33

Tomato Products .....................................................................................................................................................35

Photo Guides..............................................................................................................................................................36

General....................................................................................................................................................................36

PG-12: Canned and Frozen Whole Kernel Corn....................................................................................................37

PG-13: Interpretive Guide Illustrating Discolored Kernels or Pieces of Kernels in Canned Corn.........................38

Inspection Aids...........................................................................................................................................................39
Equipment Catalog for Fresh and Processed Products Inspections (February 2024) 

1 

FRESH FRUITS, VEGETABLES, NUTS, AND 

SPECIALTY PRODUCTS
Equipment Catalog for Fresh and Processed Products Inspections (February 2024)

2 

Equipment

Apple Corer

All-purpose corer with peeler and a pointed, serrated blade which cuts a 

3/4” diameter core.

Price: $5.00

Caliper I

6” adjustable plastic, jaw length 1-1/2”, 1mm and 1/16” graduations.

Price: $3.00

Caliper II

6” adjustable plastic composite, jaw length 3-1/8”, one fixed & one 

sliding jaw with brass tightening screw. Inch scale: 1/16” graduation; 

and cm scale. 

Price: $27.00

Nut/Bolt Set for Caliper II

Replacement nut/bolt set (stainless steel, solid brass) for Caliper II, 

above. 

Price: $3.00

Caliper III

12” aluminum Kemper, for accurate inside or outside measuring.

Price: $12.00

Caliper, Digital

Mitutoyo Model 500-196, CD-6” CS. Electronic LCD display, measuring 

range 0-6 inches (0-150 mm). On/off switch, zero switch, in/mm switch, 

origin button. Includes silver oxide battery (SR441.5V), approximate life 

is 3-1/2 years, plastic carrying case and instructions. Specifications—

Resolution: 0.01 mm/0.0005”; Accuracy: ±0.02 mm/ ±0.001”; 

Repeatability: 0.001 mm/0.0005”. 

Price: $145.00
Equipment Catalog for Fresh and Processed Products Inspections (February 2024) 

3 

Canvas Bucket

Olive Drab Canvas Bucket - Made From 100% Heavy Weight Cotton 

Canvas. Collapsible. Dimensions: 13” x 11” 

Price: $13.00

Crate Opener

Metal hammer and nail puller/band cutter at opposite end, 8” long. 

Price: $20.00

Area Gauge, IA #30G

4 x 8 plastic measurement guide for measuring defects in fruits and 

vegetables. Clear plastic gauge with 15 diameter circles from 1/32” to

1-7/8” and a 7” ruler on one edge. July 2016 edition.

Care and Use Guide

Price: $5.00

Supplier: Equipment & Forms Depot

Garlic Press 

Metal-hinged press, 7/8” deep with 1-1/2” oval press/strain basin and 

removable screen for easy cleaning.

Price: $9.00

Grading Table

USDA inspection table, minimum 0.090” aluminum. Table has a lamp, 

locking swivel and rigid casters, tube stand with hook for hanging scale, 

a shelf that will hold up to 200 lbs., rod to hang sorting bags and a 

storage compartment. Approximate dimensions: 32” wide x 52” long x 

36” high; weighs approximately 99 pounds. Assembly required. 

Shipped FOB origin. Special Order.

Price: Price when manufactured
Equipment Catalog for Fresh and Processed Products Inspections (February 2024) 

4 

Knife I

4-3/4” long with single retractable 3-3/4” blade (Schrade razor stainless

blade) and white plastic handle.

Price: $26.00

Knife II

5-1/2” long with single retractable 4-3/4” blade (Schrade razor stainless

blade) and white plastic handle.

Price: $29.00

Knife III

12” long, stain-free, high carbon steel blade with easy-grip plastic 

watermelon handle for cutting watermelons. Includes plastic safety edge 

guard.

Price: $46.00

Knife III Edge Guard

Replacement plastic safety edge guard for Knife III, above.

Price: $5.00

Peanut Trier

Nickel-plated steel, 13” long. Outside diameter is 1-1/2” at large end; 

slot is 7 3/8” long with a top slot width of 1-1/4” tapering down to 1/4”. 

Includes a protective sheath.

Price: $125.00

Pressure Tester I 

Penetrometer fruit pressure tester with 8 mm & 11 mm stainless steel 

plunger tips, splash plate, fruit peeler, manual and carrying case. 

Capacity: 11 lb. x 1/8 lb. Application/use: citrus, melons, plums, and 

other soft fruits. 

Price: $365.00

Pressure Tester II 

Penetrometer fruit pressure tester with 8 mm & 11 mm stainless steel 

plunger tips, splash plate, fruit peeler, manual and carrying case. 

Capacity: 28 lb. x 1/4 lb. Application/use: apples, peaches, pears, 

avocados, kiwi, and other firm fruits. 

Price: $365.00
Equipment Catalog for Fresh and Processed Products Inspections (February 2024) 

5 

Fruit Peeler for Penetrometer

Replacement fruit peeler for pressure testers above.

Price: $20.00

Quick Reference Manual

Revised June 2008 – Six-ring vinyl notebook includes a diameter gauge.

Designed for on-the-job use by USDA market inspectors. Contains 

information pertaining to size, quality and condition. Also includes 

tolerances for most commonly used grades and assorted helpful hints, 

such as average freezing point and storage requirements for selected 

commodities. Dimensions: Height 7-1/4”, width 4-1/2”, thickness 1”. 

Price: $117.00

Refractometer

ATAGO 2351 MASTER-53α, water resistant, streamlined body, 

comfortable grip and rich carbon/fiber texture. Automatic temperature 

compensation feature which allows for accurate measurements. 10° to 

30° C compensation range, Brix 0.2% minimum scale, Brix 0.0 to 53.0% 

measurement range and Brix ± 0.2% accuracy.

Price: $370.00

Snips

Midwest P6717S with hot drop-forged molybdenum alloy tool steel 

straight cut, unbreakable blades. Accurately controlled heat treating 

assures longer lasting cutting edge. Top and bottom serrated blades are 

designed to grip metal for easier, even cutting. Cuts 18 gauge and lighter 

sheet metal with a cutting length capacity of 1 3/8”. Polished finish. 

Spring lasts for lifetime of snip. Snips have a center pivot adjustment 

bolt, a soft copolymer ergonomic grip for cutting comfort and a safety 

latch. Measures 9-3/4” long and weighs 14 oz. Made in USA.

Price: $20.00

Texan Nut Sheller

Easy to use aluminum, with red vinyl covered handles and nut holder. 

Dual blades clip off the ends and sides of the nut, keeping most of the nut 

kernel whole and outside of the cutting jaws. Use to shell pecans, Brazil 

nuts, walnuts, filberts, almonds, and other nuts.

Price: $20.00
Equipment Catalog for Fresh and Processed Products Inspections (February 2024) 

6 

Texan Nut Sheller Replacement Kit

Two replacement blades and spring for Texan Nut Sheller.

Price: $5.00

Digital Thermometer

Taylor 1” pocket, waterproof, instant read, with stainless steel heavy duty 

stem, on/off buttons and carrying case. Automatic shut off after 10 

minutes if there is no change in temperature. Includes alkaline battery. 

Recalibratable with a range of -40 to 450 °F.

Price: $16.00

Scales and Check Weights

2 Pound Capacity Scale

Chatillon barrel, 1/2 oz. graduation.

Price: $75.00

4 Pound Capacity Scale

Chatillon barrel, 1 oz. graduation.

Price: $75.00

6 Pound Capacity Scale

Chatillon barrel, 1 oz. graduation.

Price: $75.00

25 Pound Capacity Scale

Chatillon barrel, 4 oz. graduation. 

Price: $125.00 

60 Pound Capacity Scale

Chatillon barrel, 8 oz. graduation.

Price: $135.00
Equipment Catalog for Fresh and Processed Products Inspections (February 2024) 

7 

32 Ounce Capacity Scale

Accu-Weigh dial tabletop, 1/8 oz. graduation, Model M-28PK with 

dashpot. Dimensions: Top 7-1/2” x 7-1/2”, base 7-1/4” x 10-7/8”, 

height 10-1/2”. 

Price: $150.00

70 Pound Capacity Scale

Accu-Weigh dial platform, 4 oz. graduation, Model M-74PK. 

Dimensions: Top 9-3/4” x 9-3/4”, base 8-1/2” x 11-1/4”, height 10-1/2”. 

Price: $200.00

5 Pound Capacity Scale

Pelouze electronic digital, Model SP5. Large, easy-to-read LCD digital 

readout. Weighs in 0.1 oz./1 gm increments (5 lb./2.2 kilogram 

capacity). Features tare weight and auto-off. Uses 9-volt battery (not 

included). Scale dimensions: 6” x 9 1/2” x 1 3/4”; platform dimension 

6”. 

Price: $57.00

Metal Check Weight Set (Pounds)

Cast iron, painted. Set of 1, 2, 5, 10 and 25 pounds.

Price: $450.00

1 Pound Check Weight 

Cast iron, painted. 

Price: $60.00

2 Pound Check Weight 

Cast iron, painted. 

Price: $65.00
Equipment Catalog for Fresh and Processed Products Inspections (February 2024) 

8 

5 Pound Check Weight 

Cast iron, painted. 

Price: $75.00

10 Pound Check Weight 

Cast iron, painted. 

Price: $100.00

25 Pound Check Weight 

Cast iron, painted. 

Price: $150.00

Metal Check Weight Set (Grams)

Stainless steel, cylindrical. Set of 50, 100, and 200 grams.

Price: $145.00

50 Gram Check Weight 

Stainless steel, cylindrical. 

Price: $42.50

100 Gram Check Weight 

Stainless steel, cylindrical. 

Price: $48.00

200 Gram Check Weight 

Stainless steel, cylindrical. 

Price: $54.50
Equipment Catalog for Fresh and Processed Products Inspections (February 2024) 

9 

Sizers (Plastic & Metal)

California Cherry Sizer

California Dept. of Food and Agriculture, revised 2016, black plastic, 

with measurement for 3/8” and 12 diameters: 8 Row (84/64”); 8-1/2 

Row (79/64”); 9 Row (75/64”); 9-1/2 Row (71/64”); 10 Row (67/64”); 

10-1/2 Row (64/64”); 11 Row (61/64”); 11-1/2 Row (57/64”); 12 Row

(54/64”); 12-1/2 Row (51/64”); 48/64,” and 40/64.”

Price: $22.00

Washington Cherry Sizer

Washington Dept. of Agriculture, 2011/undated, blue plastic, with 11

diameters: 8 Row (84/64”), 8-1/2 (79/64”), 9 (75/64”), 9-1/2 (71/64”), 

10 (67/64”), 10-1/2 (64/64”), 11 (61/64”), 11-1/2 Row (57/64) and 12 

Row (54/64), 52/64”, and 48/64”. 

Price: $22.00 

Cranberry Sizer

USDA, 2009, green plastic, with 6 diameters: 9/32”, 13/32”, 14/32”, 

18/32”, 20/32” and 22/32”. 

Price: $10.00

General Purpose Sizer

6-blade set, aluminum or better alloy; screw and lock nut fastened (4”

long and wide, 1/2” thick, blades minimum 0.060” thick) Each blade

stamped with sizes and USDA: Blade 1: 7/8”, 1-3/4”, 1-7/8”; Blade 2:

3/4”, 1-1/2”, 2”; Blade 3: 3/16”, 1-1/4”, 2-1/4”; Blade 4: 1/8”, 1”, 2-

1/2”; Blade 5: 3/8”, 5/8”, 2-3/4”; Blade 6: 1/4”, 1/2”, 3”.

Price: $66.00

Grape Sizer

12-blade set, anodized aluminum, on split ring holder, 9/16, 10/16, 11/16,

12/16, 13/16, 14/16, 15/16, 1, 1-1/16, 1-1/8,1-3/16, and 1-1/4 inch

diameters. Each blade stamped with measurement. First blade stamped

USDA.

Price: $71.00
Equipment Catalog for Fresh and Processed Products Inspections (February 2024) 

10 

Florida Grapefruit Sizer

4-blade set, aluminum or better alloy; screw and lock nut fastened (12

1/2” long, 6 1/2” wide, 5/8” thick; individual blades minimum 0.07”

thick) Stamped USDA and with these sizes: Blade 1: Sizes 23 and 18 (4

25/32”, 59/32”); Blade 2: Sizes 32 and 27 (4-1/4”, 4-9/16”);

Blade 3: Sizes 40 and 36 (3-15/16”, 4-1/8”); Blade 4: Sizes 56 and 48.

Price: $90.00

Potato, Special Sizer

4 x 4 single blade, aluminum or better alloy with three diameters: 3/4”, 

1” and 1-5/8”. Stamped with measurements and USDA. Special order 

only. 

Price: $20.00

Potato/Onion Sizer

5-blade set, aluminum or better alloy; screw and lock nut fastened (7 1/2”

long, 5” wide, 1/2” thick; individual blades minimum 0.060” thick)

Stamped USDA and with these sizes: Blade 1: 2-3/4”, 3”; Blade 2: 1”,

2-1/2”, 3-1/4”; Blade 3: 1-1/4”, 2-1/4”, 3-1/2”; Blade 4: 1-3/4”, 1-7/8”,

3-3/4”; Blade 5: 1-1/2”, 2”, 4”.

Price: $80.00

USDA Tomato Sizer

4-blade set, aluminum or better alloy, screw and lock nut fastened (7 1/2”

long, 4” wide, 1/4” thick; individual blades minimum 0.060” thick)

Stamped USDA and individual blades stamped as follows: Small 2-

4/32” – 2-9/32”; Medium 2-8/32” – 2-17/32”; Large 2-16/32” – 2-25/32”;

Extra Large 2-24/32”.

Price: $55.00

Florida Tomato Sizer

3-blade set, aluminum or better alloy; screw and lock nut fastened (First

blade: 4” by 4”; blades 2 and 3: 7-1/2” long, 4” wide; set 1/4” thick

individual blades minimum 0.060” thick) Set arranged as follows: Blade

1: 5 x 6, 2-25/32”; Blade 2: 6 x 6, 2-17/32” and 2-29/32”; Blade 3:

6 x 7, 2-9/32” and 2-19/32”. Each blade stamped FL TOM sizer and

USDA 2000.

Price: $40.00
Equipment Catalog for Fresh and Processed Products Inspections (February 2024) 

11 

Individual Sizing Blades 

(1/16” thick blades)

Individual Sizing Blade (4 x 4 single blade)

1-1/4”, 1-1/2”, 1-5/8”, 1-3/4”, or 1-7/8”

Price: $10.00

Individual Sizing Blade (single blade)

2”, 2-1/8”, 2-1/4”, 2-3/8”, 2-1/2”, 2-5/8”, 2-3/4”, or 2-7/8” 

Price: $11.00

Individual Sizing Blade (4 x 5 single blade)

3” or 3-1/8” 

Price: $12.00

Individual Sizing Blade (5 x 6 single blade)

3-1/4”, 3-1/2”, 3-3/4”, 3-7/8”, or 4”

Price: $13.00

Individual Sizing Blade (6 x7 single blade)

4-1/4”, 4-1/2”, 4-3/4”, or 5”

Price: $14.00

Individual Sizing Blade (7 x8 single blade)

5-1/4” or 5-1/2”

Price: $15.00
Equipment Catalog for Fresh and Processed Products Inspections (February 2024) 

12 

Visual Aids

Apple Color Guide

Revised August 2002 – Official Visual Aids for Apples (AP-CC-1 A 

through E). Includes minimum good shade of striped red color, 

minimum compensating color and not to be considered as a color for (A) 

Red Delicious, Empire and Red Rome; (B) Winesap and Rome; (C) 

Delicious; (D) McIntosh and Cortland; and (E) Jonathan, Idared, 

Stayman, and York.

Price: $38.00

Cherry, Sour Color Comparator

Color comparator for red sour cherries for manufacture minimum color 

U.S. No. 1 (March 2013). USDA Visual Aid PL-1-RSP.

Price: $10.00 

Cherry, Sweet Color Comparator

Color comparator for sweet cherries minimum color for Bing and other 

similar varieties (July 2012). USDA Visual Aid PL-1.

Price: $10.00 

Cucumber Color Comparator

Color comparator for cucumber medium green (August 2011). USDA 

Visual Aid CC-1.

Price: $10.00 

Lime Color Comparator

Color comparator for Persian limes, minimum color considered “good 

green” (July 2000). USDA Visual Aid LIM-CC-1.

Price: $10.00 
Equipment Catalog for Fresh and Processed Products Inspections (February 2024) 

13 

Lettuce Color Comparator

Color comparator for Lettuce, minimum light buff color for scoring 

Tipburn (August 2013). USDA Visual Aid LT-CC-1.

Price: $10.00 

Onion I Color Comparator

Color comparator for BGG onions, dark green and light to medium green 

(Sept 01). USDA Visual Aid ONS-CC-1.

Price: $10.00 

Onion II Color Comparator

Color comparator for Northern onions, medium green (Sept 01). USDA 

Visual Aid ONS-CC-2.

Price: $10.00 

Peanut I Color Comparator

Color comparator for brown, gray, blue-gray and purple skin 

discoloration on peanuts (Revised 2010). USDA Visual Aid PN-1.

Price: $13.00

Peanut II Color Comparator

Color comparator for minimum light yellow color for scoring flesh

discoloration (April 2014). USDA Visual Aid PN-CC-1. 

Price: $13.00 
Equipment Catalog for Fresh and Processed Products Inspections (February 2024) 

14 

Peanut III Visual Aid

Visual aid for purple flesh discoloration, maximum allowed 

before minor (July 2000). USDA Visual Aid PNT-CP-9.

Price: $10.00 

Peanut IV Visual Aid

Visual aid for green flesh discoloration, maximum allowed 

before minor (February 2003). USDA Visual Aid PNTCP-10.

Price: $10.00 

Pear I Color Comparator

Color comparator for green, light green, yellowish green 

and yellow ground color on pears (Revised 1999). USDA 

Visual Aid PR-1.

Price: $13.00

Pear II Color Comparator

Color comparator for very dark brown and medium brown 

skin discoloration on pears (Revised 2012). USDA Visual 

Aid PR-2.

Price: $13.00

Pecan Color Comparators 

Color comparators for minimum medium shade of gray for 

scoring internal flesh discoloration, minimum medium 

shade of brown for scoring internal flesh discoloration, and 

minimum dark shade for scoring internal flesh discoloration 

(March 2016). USDA Visual Aid PEC-PL-1. 

Price: $30.00

Pistachio Color Comparator

Color comparator for maximum brown color allowed for light staining on 

pistachios (November 2011). USDA Visual Aid PIS-CC-1. 

Price: $10.00 
Equipment Catalog for Fresh and Processed Products Inspections (February 2024) 

15 

Potato I Color Comparator

Color comparator for brown center and hollow heart with discoloration in 

potatoes (1/98). USDA Visual Aid POT-CC-1.

Price: $10.00 

Potato II Color Comparator

Color comparator for scoring of internal black spot in potatoes (4/2008). 

USDA Visual Aid POT-CC-2.

Price: $10.00 

Potato Visual Aid Book

Revised May 1998 – Official Visual Aids for Potatoes (POT-L-1). 

Includes 143 lithograph photos of basic requirements for potatoes and 

identification and classification of various disorders and defects. Threering vinyl notebook; 11-1/2” long, 10” wide, 1-1/2” thick. Includes 

updated pages 31, 32, 33, 34, and 35. 

Price: $180.00

Tomato Color Chart

Color chart for classification requirements of surface color for tomatoes 

described as green, breakers, turning, pink, light red, and red (February 

1975). USDA Visual Aid TM-L-1.

Price: $13.00

Walnut Color Chart

Pictorial reference for classifying walnut kernels with U.S. Standards for

grades of shelled walnuts and walnuts in the shell (1967). 

Price: $55.00 

Watermelon I Color Comparator

Color comparator for minimum color for mature red-flesh varieties of 

watermelons (March 2000). USDA Visual Aid WAT-CC-1.

Price: $13.00
Equipment Catalog for Fresh and Processed Products Inspections (February 2024) 

16 

Watermelon II Color Comparator

Color comparator for minimum brown color for scoring transit rubs

(August 2014). USDA Visual Aid WAT-CC-2. 

Price: $13.00 

2 x 2 Slides

Various visual aids for identification or scoring of factors in the U.S. 

grade standards.

Price: $3.75 each

8 x 10 Black and White Photographs

Various visual aids for identification or scoring of factors in the U.S. 

grade standards.

Price: 1 to 50: $10.00 each

51 or more: $6.50 each

8 x 10 Color Photographs

Various visual aids for identification or scoring of factors in the U.S. 

grade standards.

Price: 1 to 50: $18.00 each

51 or more: $12.00 each

Refer to the Index of Official Visual Aids for a listing of visual aids and 2 x 2 slides, both those that are currently 

available and those which are not available, but still applicable.
Equipment Catalog for Fresh and Processed Products Inspections (February 2024) 

17 

PROCESSED FRUITS, VEGETABLES, AND 

SPECIALTY PRODUCTS
Equipment Catalog for Fresh and Processed Products Inspections (February 2024) 

18 

Color Standards

Apple Butter

USDA color standards in the form of two bi-colored laminated vinyl 

chips. The USDA canned apple butter color standards represent 

minimum color requirements as specified in the U.S. Standards for 

Grades of Canned Apple Butter, U.S. Grade “A” and “C”. August 2002. 

Care and Use Guide

Price: $85.00 

Supplier: Equipment & Forms Depot (Federal Offices Only) 

Visual Color Systems (Public Purchase)

Visual Color Systems

PO Box 93

Mountaindale, NY 12763

Telephone: (845) 434-2646

www.visualcolorsystems.com

Beans, Canned Lima

USDA color standards in the form of a bi-colored laminated vinyl chip. 

Represents both lima bean green and lima bean white. For use in 

classifying color as specified in the U.S. Standards for Grades of Canned 

Lima Beans. August 2005. 

Care and Use Guide

Price: $75.00

Supplier: Equipment & Forms Depot (Federal Offices Only) 

Visual Color Systems (Public Purchase)

Visual Color Systems

PO Box 93

Mountaindale, NY 12763

Telephone: (845) 434-2646

www.visualcolorsystems.com

Beans, Frozen Lima

USDA color standards in the form of a bi-colored laminated vinyl chip. 

Represents both lima bean green and lima bean white (thin-seeded). For 

use in classifying color as specified in the U.S. Standards for Grades of 

Frozen Lima Beans, U.S. Grade “A”, “B”, and “C”. June 2002.

Care and Use Guide

Price: $75.00

Supplier: Equipment & Forms Depot
Equipment Catalog for Fresh and Processed Products Inspections (February 2024) 

19 

Cherries, Frozen Red Tart

USDA color standard in the form of a laminated vinyl chip. The USDA 

frozen red tart cherries color standard represents minimum red color 

requirements as specified in the U.S. Standards for Grades of Frozen Red 

Tart Pitted Cherries, U.S. Grade “A”. May 2003. 

Care and Use Guide

Part No. 424442 Price: $66.75

Supplier: Equipment & Forms Depot (Federal Offices Only) 

X-Rite, Inc. (Public Purchase)

X-Rite, Inc. - Munsell Color Services

4300 44th Street SE

Grand Rapids, MI 49512

Telephone: (877) 888-1720

www.xrite.com

Honey

Two metal comparator racks with plastic color standards representing 

water white, extra white, white, extra light amber, light amber, and amber 

as specified in the U.S. Standards for Grades of Honey. Sample bottles 

are included. September 2003

Care and Use Guide

Price: $156.00

Supplier: Equipment & Forms Depot 

Molasses, Sugarcane

Metal comparator rack with plastic color standards representing No. 1, 

No. 2, and No. 3 as specified in the U.S. Standards for Grades of 

Molasses. Sample bottles are included. September 2003.

Part No. 423404 Price: $130.00

Supplier: Equipment & Forms Depot (Federal Offices Only) 

X-Rite, Inc. (Public Purchase)

Care and Use Guide

X-Rite, Inc. - Munsell Color Services

4300 44th Street SE

Grand Rapids, MI 49512

Telephone: (877) 888-1720

www.xrite.com
Equipment Catalog for Fresh and Processed Products Inspections (February 2024) 

20 

Mushrooms, Canned

USDA color standards in plastic 2x3 inch color chips. Colors 1, 2, 3, 4, 

and 5 representing cap and gill color, applicable to the U.S. Standards for 

Grades of Canned Mushrooms, white or cream type, U.S. Grade “A” and 

“B.” Available as a set. June 2002.

Care and Use Guide

Price: $115.00

Supplier: Equipment & Forms Depot 

Olives, Canned Ripe

USDA color standards in the form of a bi-colored laminated vinyl chip. 

Depicts the two appropriate USDA composite color standards. For use in 

classifying color for canned ripe olives. March 1994.

Care and Use Guide

Part No. M90056 Price: $65.75 

Supplier: Equipment & Forms Depot (Federal Offices Only) 

X-Rite, Inc. (Public Purchase)

X-Rite, Inc. - Munsell Color Services

4300 44th Street SE

Grand Rapids, MI 49512

Telephone: (877) 888-1720

www.xrite.com

Orange Juice (Processed)

USDA color standards in the form of six plastic tubes. The USDA colors

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 represent processed orange juice points of reference 

corresponding to the color scores 40 points through 36 points,

respectively. The six tubes are available as a set in the 1963 edition.

Care and Use Guide

Part No. 314087 Price: $315.00

Supplier: Agtron, Inc.

Agtron, Inc.

9395 Double R Blvd.

Reno, NV 89511

Telephone: (775) 850-4600 

www.agtroninc.com 
Equipment Catalog for Fresh and Processed Products Inspections (February 2024) 

21 

Peaches, Canned Clingstone

USDA color standards in laminated tri-color vinyl chip. Applicable to 

the U.S. Standards for Grades of Canned Clingstone Peaches, U.S. Grade 

“A,” “B,” and “C”. January 2011. 

Care and Use Guide

Price: $60.00 

Supplier: Equipment & Forms Depot (Federal Offices Only) 

Visual Color Systems (Public Purchase)

Visual Color Systems

PO Box 93

Mountaindale, NY 12763

Telephone: (845) 434-2646

www.visualcolorsystems.com 

Peanut Butter

USDA color standards in plastic 2 x 3 inch color chips. Colors 1, 2, 3,

and 4 are available as a set as specified in the U.S. Standards for 

Grades of Peanut Butter, U.S. Grade “A” and “B”. October 2021. 

Care and Use Guide

Price: $235.00

Supplier: Equipment & Forms Depot

Peas, Frozen 

USDA color standards in the form of six laminated vinyl chips.

Applicable to the U.S. Standards for Grades of Frozen Peas. Colors 1, 

2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 are available as a set. October 2021. 

Care and Use Guide

Price: $325.00

Supplier: Equipment & Forms Depot

Pimientos, Canned

USDA color standards in the form of a bi-colored laminated vinyl chip. 

The color standards represent both pimiento red and pimiento reddishyellow as specified in the U.S. Standards for Grades of Canned 

Pimientos. May 1996 and June 2003.

Care and Use Guide

Price: $75.00

Supplier: Equipment & Forms Depot
Equipment Catalog for Fresh and Processed Products Inspections (February 2024) 

22 

Potatoes, Frozen French Fried

USDA color standards in the form of a printed one –page leaflet. This 

leaflet depicts a series of seven french fried potato units in graduated 

shades of ‘fry” color. 5th edition 2007. 

Care and Use Guide

Price: $45.00 

Supplier: Equipment & Forms Depot 

Pumpkin/Squash, Canned

USDA color standards in the form of a bi-colored laminated vinyl chip. 

The USDA canned pumpkin and canned squash color standards represent 

minimum color requirements as specified in the U.S. Standards for 

Grades of Canned Pumpkin and U.S. Standards for Grades of Canned 

Squash, U.S. Grade “A” and “C”. November 2002.

Care and Use Guide

Part No. 424434 Price: $66.75

Supplier: Equipment & Forms Depot (Federal Offices Only) 

X-Rite, Inc. (Public Purchase)

X-Rite, Inc. - Munsell Color Services

4300 44th Street SE

Grand Rapids, MI 49512

Telephone: (877) 888-1720

www.xrite.com
Equipment Catalog for Fresh and Processed Products Inspections (February 2024) 

23 

Sauerkraut, Canned

USDA color standards in the form of textured plastic disks. The USDA

color standards for canned sauerkraut include limits for the 

predominating characteristic color and brightness of the product. The

slightly greenish color in U.S. Grade B is represented by No. 1B, (Serial

No. 12150) and the darkest limit of cream to light straw in U.S. Grade B

is represented by No. 2, (Serial No. 12151). October 1957 edition.

Care and Use Guide

Price: $52.50 

Supplier: Agtron, Inc.

Agtron, Inc.

9395 Double R Blvd.

Reno, NV 89511

Telephone: (775) 850-4600 

www.agtroninc.com 

Tomatoes, Canned

USDA color standard in the form of a laminated vinyl chip. The USDA 

canned tomatoes color standard represents minimum red color 

requirements as specified in the U.S. Standards for Grades of Canned 

Tomatoes, U.S. Grade “C” or better. September 2002. 

Care and Use Guide

Part No. 423904 Price: $66.75

Supplier: Equipment & Forms Depot (Federal Offices Only) 

X-Rite, Inc. (Public Purchase)

X-Rite, Inc. - Munsell Color Services

4300 44th Street SE

Grand Rapids, MI 49512

Telephone: (877) 888-1720

www.xrite.com

Tomato Products 

(Tomato Juice, Tomato Puree, Tomato Paste, and Tomato Catsup) 

USDA color standards in the form of two bi-colored laminated vinyl 

chips. Represents selected minimum red color for U.S. Standards for 

Grades of Tomato Juice, Tomato Paste, Tomato Puree, and Tomato 

Catsup for U.S. Grades “A” and “C”. A spinner is not required to use 

this version of the tomato products color standards. December 2000.

Care and Use Guide

Part No. M90066 Price: $66.75

Supplier: Equipment & Forms Depot (Federal Offices Only) 

X-Rite, Inc. (Public Purchase)

X-Rite, Inc. - Munsell Color Services

4300 44th Street SE

Grand Rapids, MI 49512

Telephone: (877) 888-1720

www.xrite.com
Equipment Catalog for Fresh and Processed Products Inspections (February 2024) 

24 

Photo Guides

Beans, Green & Wax

PG-2; Photo Guide for Frozen Green & Wax Beans depicting defects and 

character. October 2001.

Care and Use Guide

Price: $70.00

Supplier: Equipment & Forms Depot

Broccoli, Frozen

PG-1; Photo Guide for Frozen Broccoli illustrating defects, blemishes, 

development, and trimming. Reissued May 2012. 

Care and Use Guide

Price: $100.00

Supplier: Equipment & Forms Depot

Carrot, Frozen 

PG-10; Photo Guide for Frozen Carrots illustrating color and defects. 

April 2005.

Care and Use Guide

Price: $85.00

Supplier: Equipment & Forms Depot

Corn, Canned and Frozen Whole Kernel

PG-12; Photo Guide for classifying “cut” and “pulled” kernels canned 

and frozen whole kernel corn. Reissued September 2009 and January 

2012.

Care and Use Guide

Price: $35.00

Supplier: Equipment & Forms Depot
Equipment Catalog for Fresh and Processed Products Inspections (February 2024) 

25 

Corn, Canned

PG-13; Interpretive guide illustrating discolored kernels or pieces of 

kernels in canned corn. Reissued September 2009 and September 2011.

Care and Use Guide

Price: $35.00

Supplier: Equipment & Forms Depot

Corn on the Cob, Frozen 

PG-14; Photo Guide for Frozen Corn on the Cob illustrating color and 

development. April 2014. 

Care and Use Guide

Price: $72.00

Supplier: Equipment & Forms Depot

Dates, Raisins, Prunes, and Canned Ripe Olives

PG-11; Photo Guide for identification and classification of dates, raisins, 

prunes, and canned ripe olives imported into the U.S. July 2012.

Care and Use Guide

Price: $90.00

Supplier: Equipment & Forms Depot

Peanut Butter

PG-4; Photo Guide for peanut butter illustrating dark particles in peanut 

butter. Reissued January 2008.

Care and Use Guide

Price: $35.00

Supplier: Equipment & Forms Depot
Equipment Catalog for Fresh and Processed Products Inspections (February 2024) 

26 

Other Guides & Inspection 

Aids

Area Measurement Guide, 8 x 10 in English Units, IA#30A

8 x 10 plastic measurement guide for measuring defects in fruits and 

vegetables. Available for measuring in English units. July 1990 edition.

Care and Use Guide

Price: $5.00

Supplier: Equipment & Forms Depot

Area Measurement Guide, 8 x 10 in Metric Units

8 x 10 plastic measurement guide for measuring defects in fruits and 

vegetables. Available for measuring in Metric units.

Care and Use Guide

Price: $5.00

Supplier: Equipment & Forms Depot

Area Measurement Guide, IA #30B

4 x 8 plastic measurement guide for measuring defects in fruits and 

vegetables. This guide is available for measuring in English grids. 

January 2002 edition.

Care and Use Guide

Price: $5.00

Supplier: Equipment & Forms Depot

Area Measurement Guide, IA #30C

4 x 8 plastic measurement guide for measuring defects in fruits and 

vegetables. This guide is available for measuring in English circles. 

May 2016 edition.

Care and Use Guide

Price: $5.00

Supplier: Equipment & Forms Depot

Area Measurement Guide, IA #30E

4 x 8 plastic measurement guide for measuring defects in fruits and 

vegetables. This guide is available for measuring in Metric grids. 

October 2012 edition.

Care and Use Guide

Price: $5.00

Supplier: Equipment & Forms Depot
Equipment Catalog for Fresh and Processed Products Inspections (February 2024) 

27 

Area Measurement Guide, IA#30F

4 x 8 plastic measurement guide for measuring defects in fruits and 

vegetables. This guide is available for measuring in Metric circle. 

October 2012.

Care and Use Guide

Price: $5.00

Supplier: Equipment & Forms Depot

Canned Applesauce Test Kit, IA#105

USDA flow sheet, cylinder, and scraper. A flat chart with defect and 

flow measurement areas defined on the surface; a clear hollow cylinder; 

and a clear scraper, with 3/16 inch-depth cut-out all made of 

polycarbonate material. For use in testing the consistency of applesauce 

and measuring defects applicable to the U.S. Standards for Grades of 

Canned Applesauce. Available as a set. September 2012.

Care and Use Guide

Price: $130.00

Supplier: Equipment & Forms Depot

Canned and Frozen Asparagus Sizer, IA#109

This inspection aid is an official device used to make objective 

measurements for size of canned and frozen asparagus. October 2003.

Care and Use Guide

Price: $30.00

Supplier: Equipment & Forms Depot

Citrus Concentrate, Guide for Scoring Hesperidin, IA#82

This inspection aid is a guide to determine the maximum amount of 

Hesperidin allowable in the Grade A classification of concentrated citrus 

USDA grade standards. December 1985. 

Care and Use Guide

In development – not available
Equipment Catalog for Fresh and Processed Products Inspections (February 2024) 

28 

Citrus Juice, Guide for Scoring Dark Specks, IA#90

This inspection aid provides a visual guide for the presence of dark 

specks in the juice and illustrates lower limits of such specks for each 

grade. This aid includes suspended and precipitated black specks. 

September 1970. 

Care and Use Guide

In development – not available

Frozen Strawberry Sizer, IA#68

This inspection aid is an official device used to make objective 

measurements for size of frozen strawberries. October 2003.

Care and Use Guide

Price: $23.00

Supplier: Equipment & Forms Depot

Headspace Gauge

Plastic device used to measure headspace in canned foods for the 

determination of fill of container. Increments measured in 1/16 inch.

Care and Use Guide

Price: $22.00

Supplier: Equipment & Forms Depot

USDA Bean Sizer, IA#108

This inspection aid is an official device used to make objective 

measurements for size of canned and frozen round type green and wax 

beans. October 2003.

Care and Use Guide

Price: $22.00

Supplier: Equipment & Forms Depot

USDA Defect Grading Plate for Tomato Catsup and Apple Butter, 

IA#104

A plastic plate used to evaluate products for defects, seeds, and peel 

present in a specific volume. Applicable to the U.S. Standards for Grades 

of Tomato Catsup and U.S. Standards for Grades of Apple Butter. 

February 2002.

Care and Use Guide

Price: $85.00

Supplier: Equipment & Forms Depot
Equipment Catalog for Fresh and Processed Products Inspections (February 2024) 

29 

USDA Metric Sizer, IA#110

This inspection aid is an official device used to make objective 

measurements for size of canned ripe olives. October 2003.

Care and Use Guide

Price: $28.00

Supplier: Equipment & Forms Depot

USDA Pea Sizer, IA#107

This inspection aid is an official device used to make objective 

measurements for size of canned and frozen peas. October 2003.

Care and Use Guide

Price: $24.00

Supplier: Equipment & Forms Depot

Universal Sizer, IA#106

A plastic device used for the inspection of commodities with a specific 

size requirement. Sizes for measuring frozen and canned lima beans, 

peas, cherries, canned white potatoes, frozen strawberries, onions, dried 

figs, processed raisins, and prunes. Available as a set. Set arranged as 

follows: Blade 1: cover; Blade 2: 9/32”, 10/32” 11/32”, 12/32”, 13/32”, 

14/32”, 15/32”, 16/32”, 17/32”, 18/32”; Blade 3: 19/32”, 20/32”, 

23/32”, 24/32”, 28/32”; Blade 4: 15/16”, 1”, 1-1/16”; Blade 5: 1-1/8”, 

1-3/16”; Blade 6: 1-1/4”; Blade 7: 1-5/16”; Blade 8: 1-3/8”;

Blade 9: 1-1/2”; Blade 10: 1-9/16”; Blade 11: 1-5/8”;

Blade 12: 1-7/8”; Blade 13: 14 mm, 25 mm, 38 mm; Blade 14: 15 mm.

January 2003.

Care and Use Guide

Price: $110.00

Supplier: Equipment & Forms Depot
Equipment Catalog for Fresh and Processed Products Inspections (February 2024) 

30 

CARE AND USE GUIDES
Equipment Catalog for Fresh and Processed Products Inspections (February 2024) 

31 

Color Standards

General

Clean surfaces with a soft non-abrasive cloth using warm water and a mild soap solution and dry with a soft cloth. 

Avoid prolonged immersion in water. Store the standards in their envelope, away from heat and light, when not in 

use.
Equipment Catalog for Fresh and Processed Products Inspections (February 2024) 

32 

Honey

The color comparator for classifying color on the basis of the United States Standards for Grades of Extracted 

Honey consists of two metal boxes measuring approximately 11 x 23

/4 x 17/8 inches divided into five equal 

compartments, each having two viewing apertures approximately 13

/16 inch square. The new comparator, dated 

September 26, 2003, replaces the smaller previously distributed version. The three lighter color standards are 

mounted in the comparator box labeled Water White, Extra White, and White in compartments 1, 3, and 5. The 

three darker standards are mounted in a similar manner in the second comparator box labeled Extra Light Amber, 

Light Amber, and Amber. The bottle containing the sample of honey is placed in the appropriate comparator in 

compartment 2 or 4 so that it will be between adjacent color standards. Three square bottles similar to the sample 

bottles, filled with distilled water and referred to as “blanks”, are placed in the compartments behind the color 

standards.

To assist in the classification of the color of samples of honey which are appreciably turbid, three bottles containing 

suspensions of diatomaceous earth in varying degrees of turbidity are used. These are used interchangeably with 

any one of the clear blanks to reduce the brightness of the color standard to a level near that of the honey to be 

classified. Instructions for making up the cloudy suspensions are found in the grading manual for Extracted Honey. 

The following procedure is used in classifying the color of extracted honey with these color comparators:

1. The clear blanks or the cloudy suspensions are placed behind the plastic standards in compartments 1, 3, and 5

of one or both of the comparators.

2. The sample of honey to be classified, which must be free of granulation, is poured into a clean dry bottle. The

bottle is then placed in compartment 2 or 4 of either comparator box.

3. The comparator is held at a convenient distance from the eye and viewed using an approved light source. The

color classification of the honey is then determined by comparison of the sample with the standards. Switching

the sample from compartment 2 to 4, or vice versa, interchanging the clear blanks and the appropriate cloudy

suspension, and in some cases shifting to the second comparator or using both comparators, may be necessary.

If the sample is equal to the Water White color standard or lighter in color, the color is classified as Water

White. If darker in color than the Water White color standard, but not darker than the Extra White color

standard the color is classified as Extra White, and so on.

Many types of honey are appreciably cloudy because of the presence of air bubbles and fine suspended matter.

In such cases, the brightness of the sample will be lowered and its color classification may be difficult to

determine, particularly if its hue is near that of one of the color standards. When this is the case, the color

classifications will be more easily determined if the clear blank is replaced by one of the cloudy suspensions.

Although these cloudy suspensions are designed as aids in the classification of the color of honey, they may

also serve as aids in evaluating the factor of clarity in ascertaining the grade of the product.

The color standards can be cleaned, when necessary, with a non-abrasive cotton cloth to avoid damage to the

plastic material. The table below shows the USDA color standards, with scale readings on the Pfund wedge

comparator, and spectral absorbance of caramel-glycerin solutions corresponding to the standard scale readings.

USDA Color Standards Pfund Wedge Scale, mm

Caramel-glycerin Solutions, Absorbance* at 560 mu

10 mm 31.5 mm

Water White 8 0.0300** 0.0945

Extra White 17 0.0600** 0.189

White 34 0.119** 0.378

Extra Light Amber 50 0.189 0.595

Light Amber 85 0.441 1.389**

Amber 114 0.979 3.008**

* Absorbance (optical density) = log10 (100/percent transmittance) measured versus an equal thickness of glycerin.

** Calculated values.
Equipment Catalog for Fresh and Processed Products Inspections (Feburary 2024) 

33 

Sugarcane Molasses

The comparator for Sugarcane Molasses consists of:

1. Three plastic color standards comprised of three translucent plastic tiles,

2. A metal box measuring approximately 11 x 2-3/4 x 1-1/9 inches, dived into five equal compartments, and

3. Six sample bottles

The comparator is used with two sample containers having an internal opening of 1/8 inch in width.

Mount the three color standards from the lightest shade of amber to darkest shade into the 1st, 3rd, and 5th 

compartments, respectively. The 1st, 3rd, and 5th compartments of the comparator box are labeled “No. 1,” “No. 

2,” and “No. 3.” Be careful to keep the plastic color standards clean and free of fingerprints or scratches. 

To assist in the classification of the color of samples of molasses which are appreciably cloudy, three bottles 

containing colorless liquid of varying degrees of cloudiness are used. Instructions for the preparation of cloudy 

suspensions are found on page 2. These are referred to as “Cloudy A,” “Cloudy B,” and “Cloudy C,” and are used 

interchangeably in compartments 1, 3, and 5 to reduce the brightness of the color standard to a level near that of the 

molasses to be classified.

The following procedure is used in classifying the color of sugarcane molasses with these color comparators:

1. Partially crystallized sugarcane molasses is liquefied by heating to approximately 54.4 °C (130 °F) and cooled

to approximately 20 °C (68 °F) before ascertaining the color.

2. With the aid of a small beaker, place the sample of sugarcane molasses into the opening of a clean, dry sample

container.

3. The comparator is held at a convenient distance from the eye and viewed using an approved light source. Use

diffused north daylight or an artificial source (e.g., the MacBeth Examolite Daylight models - 7500 Kelvin or

equivalent) of a quality equal to natural daylight. The color classification is then determined by comparison of

the sample with the standards. Switch the sample from the second compartment to the fourth compartment, or

vice versa, and interchange the clear “blanks” for the appropriate cloudy suspension, as needed.

4. If the sample is equal to, or not as dark as the “No. 1” in hue, the color is classified as “U.S. Grade A (or U.S.

Fancy);” if the color is perceptibly darker than “No. 1,” but not darker than “No. 2,” the color is classified as

“U.S. Grade B (or U.S. Choice);” if the color is perceptibly darker than “No. 2,” but not darker than “No. 3,”

the color is classified as “U.S. Grade C (or U.S. Standard);” if the color is darker than “No. 3,” the color is

classified as “Substandard”.

5. If the sirup is appreciably cloudy, its brightness will be lowered and its color classification may be difficult to

determine, particularly if the hue is near that of one of the standards. In such cases the color classification is

more easily determined if the clear “blanks” are replaced by the cloudy suspensions. If the color is as cloudy as

suspension B, the quality shall be graded “U.S. Grade B.” If the color is as cloudy as suspension C, the quality

shall be graded “Substandard.”

6. If the sample s appreciably cloudy in appearance, place a suspension of comparable cloudiness (Cloudy A,

Cloudy B, or Cloudy C) behind the permanent glass color standard to facilitate color classification. The bottles

should be shaken after prolonged standing to bring about the proper suspension of diatomaceous earth.

Preparation of Cloudy Suspensions

This procedure is for the preparation of one liter (1000 ml) each of cloudy suspensions 

A, B, and C. 

Note: An acceptable cloudy suspension can be prepared by using distilled water and diatomaceous earth (DE) 

alone. See steps 1, 4, 5, and 7 below. The bottles containing the preparation should be thoroughly shaken before 

use and allowed to stand until all the air bubbles have been eliminated.

To obtain more stable cloudy suspensions, use the following procedure:

1. Measure 1.5 liters (1,500 ml) of warm water (about 140 °F)
Equipment Catalog for Fresh and Processed Products Inspections (February 2024) 

34 

2. Add 1.5 grams sorbic acid and mix with a stirrer until dissolved.

3. Gradually add 1.5 grams of carboxymethylcellulose (cellulose gum) to the warm solution. It may take several

hours to dissolve.

4. Divide the stock solution into three equal 500 ml portions.

5. Add the following amounts of a food-grade diatomaceous earth (DE) for each suspension:

Cloudy A – 100 mg (0.10 grams)

Cloudy B – 200 mg (0.20 grams)

Cloudy C – 400 mg (0.40 grams)

6. Add 500 ml of glycerine to each suspension. This will result in a final volume of one liter for each cloudy

suspension.

7. Transfer the suspensions to the square glass bottles and label them

The glycerine serves to prevent freezing; it also helps to slow the rate of settling out of the diatomaceous earth. The 

carboxymethylcellulose serves to raise the specific gravity and to prevent settling, while the sorbic acid acts as a 

preservative. These cloudy suspensions can be used with other sugar comparators (i.e., maple sirup and honey.)

The color standards can be cleaned with a non-abrasive cotton cloth to avoid damage to the plastic material.
Equipment Catalog for Fresh and Processed Products Inspections (February 2024) 

35 

Tomato Products

This instruction provides for use and care of the Tomato Products Color Standards, 2000 Edition. USDA color 

standards come in the form of two bi-colored laminated vinyl chips. Represents selected minimum red color for 

USDA composite color standards as specified in the U.S. Standards for Grades of Tomato Juice, Tomato Paste, 

Tomato Puree, and Tomato Catsup for U.S. Grades “A” and “C.” A spinner is not required to use this version of the 

tomato products color standards. The color standards may be used if an approved colorimeter is not available. 

Lower limits of color are prescribed in the U.S. standards for grades of various tomato products partially in terms of 

the color produced by spinning a combination of colored discs. The colors used according to the Munsell Color 

Notation are:

Red (5R2.6/13) (Glossy finish) Black (N1) (Glossy Finish)

Yellow (2.5YR/12) (Glossy Finish) Grey (N4) (Mat Finish)

The color standards simplify the grading of tomato products, give equivalent results when compared to the Munsell 

version of segmented discs, and replace the Magnuson version of the composite color standards (ABL and ABG). 

Exception: These color standards cannot be used for tomato juice scoring 25 points under the special rule for 

canned tomato juice, concentrated tomato juice, and tomato juice from concentrate, because they do not cover 14% 

Grey or 19% Grey for Grades “A” and “C”, respectively. Use the original Munsell discs: 59% Red, 24% Yellow, 

16.5% Black or Grey, or 8.25% Black and 8.25% Grey, instead. 

To use the color standards, select the color standard plate that most nearly matches the sample. Put the prepared 

sample into the grading cup and place both the color standard and sample side-by-side, into the color-viewing booth 

or under approved lighting, if a booth is not available. The samples should be viewed against a neutral grey 

background with approved lighting, at approximately 7500 Kelvin color temperature. Observe the standard and 

sample at a 45-degree viewing angle from a distance of 24 inches from the product. No spinning or special rack is 

required. 

If the product appears more red than either color on the plate, score accordingly. If the product appears less red than 

either color, it should be scored at the appropriate lower grade.

Use the following table as a guide for tomato products: 

Catsup Sauce Puree and Paste Concentrated Juice Juice

Color Score Color Score Color Score Color Score Color Score

Sample is as red 

or redder than A1

or A2

Good color 21-25

points

Good color 21-25

points

Good color 45-50 

points

Good color 26-30 

points

Good color 26-30 

points

Use Special Disc* ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ Fairly good 

color

25 

points

Reasonably 

good

25 

points

Sample is as red 

or redder than C1

or C2

Fairly good 

color

17-20

points

Reasonably 

good

17-20 

points

Fairly good 

color

40-44 

points

Fairly good 

color

23-24 

points

Reasonably 

good

23-24 

points

*Use original Munsell discs: 59% Red, 24.5% Yellow, 16.5% Black or Grey, or 8.25% Black and 8.25% Grey.

These color standards are to be treated with care and kept in the envelope when not in use. Clean by using mild 

soap and warm water and dry with a soft cloth or towel.
Equipment Catalog for Fresh and Processed Products Inspections (February 2024) 

36 

Photo Guides

General

Promptly remove product from the guides to prevent damage to the laminate. The pages may be cleaned by gently 

wiping with a soft non-abrasive cloth using warm water and a mild soap solution and dried with a soft cloth. Do not 

immerse or soak these inspection aid. Store the guides away from heat and light when not in use.
Equipment Catalog for Fresh and Processed Products Inspections (February 2024) 

37 

PG-12: Canned and Frozen Whole Kernel Corn

The “Photo-Guide for Classifying ‘Cut’ and ‘Pulled’ Kernels in Canned and Frozen Whole Kernel Corn” was 

developed to assist in the uniform interpretation and application of the standards when evaluating cut and pulled 

kernels in the following products:

• Canned Whole Kernel (Whole Grain) Corn;

• Canned Cream Style Corn; and

• Frozen Whole Kernel (or Whole Grain) Corn.

The cutoff point for scoring pulled kernels has been established between kernel 4 and 5 of guide. Below are the 

proper interpretations (i.e., scored or not scored), for the seven kernels pictured in the photo-guide.

• Kernel 1 – Not scored as “pulled.”

• Kernel 2 – Not scored as “pulled.”

• Kernel 3 – Not scored as “pulled.”

• Kernel 4 – Not scored as “pulled.”

• Kernel 5 – Scored as “pulled.”

• Kernel 6 – Scored as “pulled.”

• Kernel 7 – Scored as “pulled.”

Care should be exercised when using the photo-guide. Promptly remove all product residues from the guide to 

prevent damage to the laminate. The page may be cleaned by gently wiping with a soft non-abrasive cloth using 

warm water and a mild soap solution and dried with a soft cloth. Do not immerse or soak this photo-guide. Store 

the guide away from heat and light when not in use.
PG-13: Interpretive Guide Illustrating Discolored Kernels or Pieces of Kernels in Canned Corn

The Photo-Guide “Interpretative Guide Illustrating Discolored Kernels or Pieces of Kernels in Canned Corn” was 

developed to assist in the uniform interpretation and application of the grade standards when evaluating discolored 

kernels for the following products:

• Canned Whole Kernel (Whole Grain) Corn; and

• Frozen Whole Kernel (or Whole Grain) Corn.

This photo-guide does not show all types and degrees of discoloration found in canned or frozen corn. However, 

other types and degrees of discoloration may be compared with these illustrations with respect to appearance and 

may be classified accordingly.

The visual aid is divided into the following three categories:

Insignificantly Damaged Kernels (Insignificant Discoloration)

Kernel numbers 1 and 2 illustrate a slight discoloration of the glume (membranous bract at base of kernel) often

referred to as “blackheads.” This type of discoloration is more often found in frozen corn than in canned corn.

Kernel numbers 3 and 4 illustrate kernels with other “insignificant discoloration.” Kernels in this classification,

numbers 1 through 4, display small areas with very slight darker color. These should be disregarded in scoring

unless they are present in such quantities that the appearance of the product is more than slightly affected.

Damaged Kernels (Minor Discoloration)

Kernel numbers 5 through 8 illustrate discolorations which are scored as “damaged kernels” in accordance with the 

U.S. standards for grades. Number 5 illustrates the minimum amount in this category and there is a gradation in 

severity until number 8, which illustrates the maximum amount of discoloration that is permitted for “damaged

kernels.”

Kernel number 8 is typical of the near maximum limit for minor discoloration. Other discoloration — of varying 

degrees and intensities — may differ in appearance but would also be scored as “damaged kernels” if the overall

effect on the kernel is comparable.

It is not practical to illustrate every possible example of maximum discoloration for “damaged kernels.” Therefore,

those discolored kernels, which appear to be only slightly worse (darker in color, etc.) than numbers 5 through 8

may be considered as “minor discoloration,” provided they do not appear to be as seriously affected as those in 

numbers 11 through 14.

Seriously Damaged Kernels (Brown or Black Discoloration)

Kernel numbers 9 and 10 illustrate brown or black discolored pieces of kernels, which are scored as “seriously

damaged.”

Numbers 11 through 14 illustrate kernels with different degrees brown or black discoloration.

“Seriously damaged kernels” of this nature are covered by the Food and Drug Standards of Identity for Canned Corn 

(21 Code of Federal Regulations §155.130) as “brown or black discolored” kernel(s) or pieces of kernel(s).

Kernels (or pieces of kernels) showing the degree of discoloration shown in this category must be scored as

“seriously damaged.”

Care should be exercised when using the photo-guide. Do not allow it to come into direct contact with water or

product. Do not immerse or soak this photo-guide. Store the guide in a plastic page protector, away from heat and

light when not in use. 

Equipment Catalog for Fresh and Processed Products Inspections (February 2024) 

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Equipment Catalog for Fresh and Processed Products Inspections (February 2024) 

39 

Inspection Aids

Clean by using mild soap and lukewarm water and dry with a soft cloth or towel. Do not use abrasive or strong 

cleaning agents on this inspection aid. Do not soak for extended periods of time.