United States 

Department of 

Agriculture 

Agricultural 

Marketing 

Service 

Fruit and 

Vegetable 

Programs 

Fresh Products 

Branch

Pears 

Shipping Point and Market 

Inspection Instructions 

November 2007 

 
Shipping Point and Market 

Inspection Instructions for 

Pears 

These inspection instructions are specifically developed by the Fresh Products 

Branch to assist officially licensed inspectors in the interpretation and application of the 

United States Standards for Summer and Fall Pears, Section 51.1260 and United 

States Standards for Winter Pears, Section 51.1300. 

These instructions do not establish any substantial rule not legally authorized by 

the official grade standards. This publication supersedes any previously issued 

inspection instructions. 

Refer to the General Inspection Instructions for additional information pertaining 

to date, inspection point, carrier, condition of carrier, lading, etc. that is not covered in 

this handbook. Reference to “General Inspection Instructions” in all Fresh Products 

Branch publications refers to any one or all of the following - General Shipping Point 

Inspection Instructions, General Market Inspection Instructions, or Fresh Fruit and 

Vegetable Certificate Writing Handbooks. 

Any portion of these instructions beginning with the section number §51.--- and 

followed by bold print are sections or portions of sections copied directly from U.S. 

standards. The U.S. Standards for Grades of United States Standards for Summer and 

Fall Pears and United States Standards for Winter Pears are printed in the appendix of 

this handbook. All U.S. standards are available on the Internet under the USDA 

homepage. 

This replaces Pears, Shipping Point Inspection Instructions dated, July 1984, and 

Market Inspection Instructions dated, July 1973.

November 2007 

This publication may be duplicated without authorization from USDA. 
i

Factors noted with (Q) are considered quality only. Factors noted with (C) are 

considered condition at market. Factors noted with (Q or C) may be quality or condition 

depending on the circumstances. Factors not designated do not pertain to either 

category. 

TABLE OF CONTENTS 

GENERAL ............................................................................................................ 1

U.S. AND STATE GRADES................................................................................. 1

SERIOUS DAMAGE TOLERANCE ......................................................................... 1

WINTER PEARS ............................................................................................... 1

SUMMER AND FALL PEARS ............................................................................... 2

THINGS TO REMEMBER ABOUT GRADING PEARS.................................................... 2

REPRESENTATIVE SAMPLING ......................................................................... 3

BASIS FOR CALCULATING PERCENTAGES .............................................................. 3

NUMBER OF SAMPLES AT SHIPPING POINT ............................................................ 4

SAMPLING PEARS THAT HAVE NOT BEEN SIZED ................................................ 4

BIN SAMPLING ................................................................................................. 4

INCREASING SIZE OF SAMPLE ........................................................................... 4

NUMBER OF SAMPLES AT MARKET ........................................................................ 5

TOLERANCES AND APPLICATION OF TOLERANCES ................................... 6

APPLICATION OF TOLERANCES ............................................................................. 6

NOTESHEET AND CERTIFICATE ...................................................................... 7

PRODUCT ........................................................................................................... 8

NUMBER/TYPE OF CONTAINERS ........................................................................... 8

BRANDS/MARKINGS............................................................................................. 8

ORIGIN ............................................................................................................... 8

CONDITION OF PACK ........................................................................................ 8

STANDARD PACK ................................................................................................ 9

PACKING ....................................................................................................... 10

TEMPERATURE OF PRODUCT ....................................................................... 11

SIZE ................................................................................................................... 11

INTERPRETATION OF SIZE TOLERANCE ................................................................ 12

CERTIFYING MINIMUM SIZE WHEN FRUIT SHOWS HIGHER MINIMUM ...................... 12

SIZE IN COUNT PACKS....................................................................................... 13

SIZE MARKS ON LUGS AND OTHER CONTAINERS ................................................. 13

COUNT-SIZE MARKED OR LUGS AND OTHER CONTAINERS .................................... 14

SIZING AND MARKING ........................................................................................ 14

DEFECTS (QUALITY AND CONDITION) .......................................................... 15

DEFECTS AT SHIPPING POINT ......................................................................... 15

ANJOU CORK SPOT (Q OR C) ............................................................................. 16
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SAMPLING FOR INTERNAL DEFECTS................................................................. 17

ANJOU GREENING (Q) ....................................................................................... 17

BLACK END (Q) ................................................................................................. 18

BLISTER MITE INJURY (Q) .................................................................................. 19

BLUSH.............................................................................................................. 19

BRUISING (C) .................................................................................................... 20

DIAGRAM OF PEAR BRUISING GUIDE (NOT TO SCALE) ....................................... 21

CLEANNESS (Q) ................................................................................................ 21

COTTONY CORK (Q) .......................................................................................... 22

DISCOLORATION (DARK SKIN OR OTHERWISE) (Q OR C) ...................................... 22

AMMONIA INJURY ........................................................................................... 23

FIRMNESS (C) ................................................................................................... 23

PRESSURE TESTING ...................................................................................... 24

REPORTING FIRMNESS ................................................................................... 25

FROZEN OR FREEZING INJURY (C) ...................................................................... 25

GROUND COLOR ............................................................................................... 26

HAIL MARKS OR OTHER SIMILAR DEPRESSIONS OR SCARS (Q) ............................. 27

HARD END (Q) .................................................................................................. 27

INSECTS (Q OR C) ............................................................................................. 28

WORM DEVELOPMENT WHILE SHIPMENT IS IN STORAGE OR TRANSIT (C) .......... 28

CONCEALED WORM DAMAGE (CUTTING PROCEDURES) .................................... 28

INTERNAL BREAKDOWN (CORE BREAKDOWN) (C) ................................................ 29

LIMB RUBS (Q) ................................................................................................. 29

MATURITY (Q)................................................................................................... 30

INDICATORS OF IMMATURITY ........................................................................... 31

MEALY BUG (Q) ................................................................................................ 31

MOLDY OR SLOUGHING STEMS OF WINTER PEARS (C) ......................................... 31

ONE VARIETY (Q) ............................................................................................. 32

PEAR PYSLLA INJURY (Q) .................................................................................. 32

PEAR PSYLLA INJURY / DEGREE OF CONCENTRATION OF SPOTS ........................... 33

PITHY BROWN CORE (C) ................................................................................... 34

SAMPLING FOR PITHY BROWN CORE ................................................................ 34

RUSSETING (Q) ................................................................................................. 34

SCORING RUSSETING UNDER U.S. GRADES (AND STATE WINTER PEAR 

GRADES) ..................................................................................................... 35

SMOOTH SOLID AND SMOOTH NET-LIKE RUSSETING ........................................ 35

SLIGHTLY ROUGH OR THICK RUSSETING ......................................................... 36

FAIRLY SMOOTH AND NOT THICK RUSSETING .................................................. 36

EXCESSIVELY ROUGH RUSSETING .................................................................. 36

CHARACTERISTIC RUSSETING PERMITTED ....................................................... 36

AMOUNT OF RUSSETING PERMITTED UNDER U.S. GRADES .................................. 37

RUSSETING PERMITTED UNDER THE WASHINGTON STATE STANDARDS FOR 

BARTLETT AND OTHER SUMMER AND FALL PEARS .......................................... 38

SAN JOSE AND OTHER SCALES (Q) .................................................................... 38

SCAB (Q) ......................................................................................................... 38

SCALD (C) ........................................................................................................ 39
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ANJOU SCALD (SUPERFICIAL SCALD) .............................................................. 39

COMMON SCALD (SENESCENT SCALD) ............................................................ 39

SHAPE (FORM) (Q) ............................................................................................ 39

SHRIVELING (C) ................................................................................................ 41

SKIN BREAKS/STEM PUNCTURES (Q).................................................................. 41

PUNCTURES IN STATE GRADES (Q) ................................................................ 42

SOOTY BLOTCH (Q) .......................................................................................... 42

SPRAYBURN OR SUNBURN (Q) ........................................................................... 42

STINGS (Q) ....................................................................................................... 43

STONY PIT (Q) .................................................................................................. 44

STORAGE SCAB (Q OR C) .................................................................................. 44

SUNSCALD (Q) .................................................................................................. 45

DECAY (C) ....................................................................................................... 45

GRADE .............................................................................................................. 45

DEFECTS WHICH DEVELOP AFTER PACKING ....................................................... 46

U.S. COMBINATION GRADE ................................................................................ 46

REPORTING THE PERCENTAGE OF PEARS MEETING THE HIGHER GRADE 

REQUIREMENTS IN COMBINATION GRADES .......................................................... 47

PERCENTAGE OF U.S. NO. 1 QUALITY ................................................................ 47

U.S. STANDARDS AND OREGON STATE STANDARDS ............................... 48

SUMMER AND WINTER PEAR GRADES COMPARISON ............................... 49

POINTS TO REMEMBER WHEN INSPECTING U.S. AND STATE GRADES .. 50

APPENDIX I - U.S. GRADE STANDARDS ....................................................... 51

UNITED STATES STANDARDS FOR GRADES OF SUMMER AND FALL PEARS ............ 51

UNITED STATES STANDARDS FOR GRADES OF WINTER PEARS ............................ 56
1

GENERAL 

Pears are available throughout the year in most terminal markets either from 

domestic production or imported from other countries. The domestic production may be 

shipped as soon as harvested or may be placed in cold storage for later shipment. 

Fresh pear production is largely concentrated in the States of Washington, 

Oregon, and California. Pears are also grown in lesser volumes in the States of New 

York, Michigan, and Illinois. 

Pears are covered by two separate standards. One of these standards is United 

States Standards for Grades of Winter Pears. These standards cover pears that store 

well or which do not ripen until winter. The other is the United States Standards for 

Grades of Summer and Fall Pears. These standards cover pears that ripen in the 

summer or fall and are not ideal for winter storage. 

U.S. and State Grades

There is a general provision applied to the pear standards for the summer and 

fall as well as for the winter standards for pears: 

§51.1268 and §51.1309 Condition after storage or transit. Decay, 

scald, or other deterioration which may have developed on pears 

after they have been in storage or transit shall be considered as 

affecting condition and not grade. 

This means that even if the listed condition defect exceeds tolerance, the grade 

statement will still read: “U.S. No. 1 (or whichever grade is applied), Decay (or other 

condition defects) being a factor of condition.” 

Serious Damage Tolerance

The serious damage tolerance is 5% and only applies to serious damage by 

insects.

Winter Pears

§51.1300 General. These standards apply to varieties such as 

Anjou, Bosc, Winter Nelis, Comice, Flemish Beauty and other similar 

varieties. 

In the U.S. standards, Oregon State and Washington State Standards for Winter 

Pears, the U.S. Extra No. 1, Oregon Extra Fancy, and Washington Extra Fancy grades 

have the same requirements as to grade defects. This also applies to the U.S. No. 2, 
2

Oregon Fancy and Washington Fancy grades. The U.S. No. 1 is an intermediate grade 

between U.S. Extra No. 1 and U.S. No. 2. 

In all the standards for winter pears, the requirements are specific and the 

various grade factors are covered in detail. Therefore, no attempt will be made to 

discuss all the grade factors other than to offer an explanation on some points which are 

not altogether self explanatory. Inspectors must refer to the standards for the definition 

of the factor in question. 

Summer and Fall Pears

§51.1260 General. These standards apply to varieties such as 

Bartlett, Hardy and other similar varieties. 

In the U.S. standards for summer and faIl pears, the requirements are specific 

and the various grade factors are defined in detail. Remember, that the U.S. No. 1 is 

the top grade in this set of standards. There is no U.S. Extra No. 1 grade in these 

standards. 

The Oregon State Standards for summer and fall pears are identical to the U.S. 

standards in definitions but not in names, as follows: 

Oregon Extra Fancy meets all the requirements of U.S. No. 1. Oregon Fancy 

meets all the requirements of U.S. No. 2. Oregon Combination meets all the 

requirements of U.S. Combination. 

Washington State Standards for summer and fall pears differ substantially from 

the U.S. Standards in some respects. Inspectors using this grade should receive full 

instructions on terminology and definitions from their supervisors. 

Things to Remember About Grading Pears 

1. There are separate standards for summer and fall varieties and for winter 

varieties. This applies to U.S. Standards and State of Oregon and Washington 

standards. Be sure to apply the proper standards. 

2. In both sets of U.S. Standards the requirements for U.S. No. 1, U.S. No. 2, and 

U.S. Combination are practically the same. 

3. In the U.S. Standards for winter pears the top grade is U.S. Extra No. 1 

(corresponding to Oregon and Washington State Extra Fancy); U.S. Standards 

for summer varieties omit this grade, making U.S. No. 1 the top grade. 

4. For winter pears the Oregon and Washington State Extra Fancy Grades are 

identical with U.S. Extra No. 1, and the State Fancy grades are identical with 

U.S. No. 2 grade. For summer varieties refer to the State standards for 

requirements. 
3

5. Requirements of all U.S. Grades are the same for the following factors: One 

variety, mature, not overripe, carefully hand picked, clean, free from decay, 

internal breakdown, scald, freezing injury, worm holes and black end and free 

from damage caused by broken skins. 

6. There is a 15% allowance for pears having one skin break 1/8 to 3/16 inch in 

diameter or depth in all U.S. pear grades. Pears having one skin break larger 

than 3/16 inch in diameter or depth, or having more than one break 1/8 inch or 

larger are scored against the 10% grade tolerance. Skin breaks, which are less 

than 1/8 inch in diameter or depth, are not counted as a defect. 

7. There is a 5% tolerance for serious damage by insects in all the grades. 

8. Decay, scald or other deterioration in the market affects condition and not the 

grade. When any of these condition factors exceed the grade tolerance, the 

proper grade statement is similar to the following: U.S. No. 1, decay being a 

factor of condition.” 

9. There are no export standards for pears. 

10. Ground color should be reported in connection with firmness. Size is not part of 

any of the grades. 

REPRESENTATIVE SAMPLING 

The importance of obtaining representative samples cannot be over emphasized. 

Accurate certification is possible only if the samples examined are truly representative 

of the entire lot or accessible portion. All portions of a lot or load should receive the 

same attention in sampling regardless of the difficulty involved in reaching all layers or 

parts of a lot or load. Anytime the entire lot requested is not accessible for sampling, 

the inspection and certificate must be restricted to the accessible portion. 

Basis for Calculating Percentages 

§51.1267 Basis for calculating percentages. 

(a) When the numerical count is marked on the container or when 

pears are packed in a container to weigh 5 pounds or less, 

percentages shall be calculated on the basis of count. 

(b) When the minimum diameter or minimum and maximum 

diameters are marked on a container packed to weigh more than 5 

pounds or when the pears are jumbled in a container packed to 
4

weigh more than 5 pounds, percentages shall be calculated on the 

basis of weight or an equivalent basis. 

The percentages in the Washington State Standards for Summer and Fall Pears 

are based on count regardless of the type of pack or method of indicating size. 

Number of Samples at Shipping Point 

The certificate is based on the examination of samples selected to be 

representative of the lot. The inspector’s sample of pears for inspection may consist of 

the contents of two trays from a tray-pack carton, about one-fourth a place-packed 

standard box or carton or a proportionate quantity from other wholesale containers. It 

may, at times, be the entire contents of a container. It is always the entire contents of a 

consumer size container. 

When a lot is of uniform quality and condition, and it is definitely within grade 

tolerance, only the minimum number of containers instructed by the OIC/Federal 

Program Manager need be selected as samples per lot or carlot. However, if quality 

and condition factors are found to be irregular, or close to the grade tolerance, or 

several growers lots are noted, more samples must be examined. 

Code numbers and other grower’s marks must be recorded on the inspector’s 

notes in connection with each sample. The importance of complete and legible notes 

cannot be over emphasized. 

Sampling Pears That Have Not Been Sized

When size is reported in diameters in connection with a U.S. Grade, the size of 

the sample examined is usually twenty pounds. When inspecting, face and fill packs, 

care must be exercised not to include a disproportionate number of pears from the face, 

as these are usually superior in quality to those in the fill. 

Bin Sampling

When specifically authorized by the OIC/Federal Program Manager, some of the 

samples may be taken from the packing bins. However, a large proportion of the 

samples must be taken from boxes in order to determine the factors of pack, size, wrap, 

arrangement and bruising caused in packing and when box lids are applied. The 

notesheet must indicate the samples from bins. 

Increasing Size of Sample

It should be remembered that the above instructions for size of samples are only 

minimums, and that, in some cases, it will be desirable to increase the size of the 

sample taken from individual packages. This is especially true when the container 

tolerance is exceeded. 
5

Note: No lot should be put out of grade only account excessive defects in an individual 

sample unless the entire contents of the container have been used as the sample. 

Number of Samples at Market 

As a general rule a minimum of 1% of the lot must be examined. For lots of less 

than 300 packages a minimum of three samples must be examined. It is the inspector’s 

responsibility to examine additional representative samples when the quality, condition, 

or size in samples is decidedly different to ensure an accurate description of the lot. 

Twenty pounds is the usual size sample for bulk loads or large containers 

marked to denote diameter. Care should be exercised not to include a disproportionate 

number of pears from the “face” in faced containers. If the inspector tightens but does 

not otherwise disturb the outside ring of pears in faced baskets, it is possible to get 

samples from the bottom. 

Pears in boxes, which are packed in rows and layers or otherwise where the 

numerical count, is designated should be inspected on the basis of count. 

Representative samples can be obtained by opening the box on the side and taking 

specimens from all layers and rows. At least one sample should be taken from each 

size. However, if any of the sizes are out of grade or there are major differences in the 

sizes, then at least three samples shall be taken. Sample size shall be a minimum of 

fifty pears. For pears in consumer packages within master containers - sample at a rate 

of two times the number of consumer packages in a master container for each full lot 

(sample proportionately for greater or lesser amounts, i.e., half a carlot would be the 

equivalent of only one time the number of consumer packages in a master container). 

In addition, the samples must be drawn from various master containers throughout the 

lot. 

It should be remembered that fifty pears is a minimum only and in some cases it 

may be necessary to increase the size of sample in individual packages. This is 

especially important when samples show more than 1-1/2 times or double the tolerance, 

as the case may be. It should be remembered that no lot should be put out of grade 

account of excessive defects in individual samples unless the entire contents have been 

used in at least the first sample which exceeded the tolerances. 

Containers and contents should always be left in as near their original condition 

as possible, and no cut specimens should be left in the conveyance. 
6

TOLERANCES AND APPLICATION OF TOLERANCES 

The following tolerances apply to both the summer and fall pears as well as the 

winter pear grades respectively. 

§51.1265 and §51.1306 Tolerances. (a) In order to allow for variations 

incident to proper grading and handling, not more than a total of 10 

percent of the pears in any lot may fail to meet the requirements of 

grade: Provided, That not more than 5 percent shall be seriously 

damaged by insects, and not more than 1 percent shall be allowed 

for decay or internal breakdown. 

Summary of Tolerances

Total Defects, including: 10% 

 Seriously Damaged by Insects, and 5% 

 Decay or Internal Breakdown. 1% 

Application of Tolerances 

The following application of tolerances applies to both the summer and fall pears 

as well as the winter pear grades respectively. 

§51.1266 and 51.1307 Application of tolerances. 

(a) The contents of individual packages in the lot, based on sample 

inspection, are subject to the following limitations, provided the 

averages for the entire lot are within the tolerances specified for the 

grade: 

(1) For packages which contain more than 10 pounds, and a 

tolerance of 10 percent or more is provided individual packages in 

any lot shall have not more than one and one-half times the tolerance 

specified. For packages which contain more than 10 pounds and a 

tolerance of less than 10 percent is provided, individual packages in 

any lot shall have not more than double the tolerance specified, 

except that at least one pear which is seriously damaged by insects 

or affected by decay or internal breakdown may be permitted in any 

package. 

(2) For packages which contain 10 pounds or less, individual 

packages in any lot are not restricted as to the percentage of defects 
7

or off-size: Provided, That not more than four times the tolerance 

specified may be permitted in any package for pears which are 

seriously damaged by insects or affected by decay or internal 

breakdown except that at least one defective pear may be permitted 

in any package. 

Summary of Application of Tolerances for packages which contain more than 10 

pounds:

Total Defects, including: 10% x 1-1/2 = 15% 

 Serious damage by insects, and 5% x 2 = 10% 

 Decay or internal breakdown. 1% x 2 = 2% 

 Except at least one pear which is seriously damaged by insects or 

affected by decay or internal breakdown may be permitted in any package. 

Summary of Application of Tolerances for packages which contain 10 pounds or less: 

Total Defects, including and providing that: 

Individual packages in any lot 

are not restricted as to the 

percentage of defects or 

off-size. 

 Serious damage by insects, and 5% x 4 = 20% 

 Decay or internal breakdown. 1% x 4 = 4% 

 Except that at least one defective pear may be permitted in any package. 

NOTESHEET AND CERTIFICATE 

Entries on hand written notesheets and certificates must be kept in a legible and 

accurate manner. All information that appears on the certificate must be supported by 

information on the notesheet. It is the responsibility of the inspector to ensure that all 

information is properly recorded. Notations shall be recorded so that anyone familiar 

with inspection procedures can interpret them and write a certificate. Also remember 

that notesheets and certificates are prima facie evidence and must be able to withstand 

legal scrutiny. 

Detailed instructions pertaining to date, inspection point, place of inspection, type 

of carrier, lading, etc., which are not covered by these instructions may be found in one 

of the General Inspection Instructions. Your supervisor may give you additional 

information and instructions. 
8

Product 

The common name “Pears” shall be used to describe this commodity in the 

product heading. Also, in order to denote whether the summer (S) or winter (W) 

standards are applied, following “Pears,” add an (S) or (W). The variety may be 

reported in “Product / Variety” section on shipping point notesheet and certificate or in 

the “Lot ID” section on market notesheet and certificate. 

Number/Type of Containers 

The number of containers shall always be reported. In the market and at 

shipping point locations for stationary lot certification, the inspector shall always verify 

the container count provided by the applicant for each lot and report it as the 

“inspector’s count.” If the number of containers available for inspection does not match 

the application it is the inspector’s responsibility to confirm that the amount presented 

for inspection constitutes the lot. If an accurate count cannot be determined the 

inspector may report the count at someone else’s authority. However, the reason for 

doing so must be reported on the notesheet (i.e., numerous pallets with mixed product). 

Brands/Markings 

The brand, variety, size, count, grade, weight, point of origin and other important 

information appearing on the container should be reported on the notesheet in the 

“Brands/Markings” section. Only the brand name and other key markings necessary to 

properly identify the lot for certification should appear in this section on the certificate. 

Origin 

The inspectors should not make a positive statement on their own authority, but 

when container markings list the State or country of origin, it should be quoted in the 

appropriate space on the notesheet and the certificate. If origin is not marked, it is the 

inspector’s responsibility to make an effort to obtain this information from the applicant. 

This policy is necessary because some firms may use one brand on the same product 

packed in several States. The inspector can certify the marks on the containers. 

CONDITION OF PACK 

Refer to the General Shipping Point or the General Market Inspection 

Instructions for instructions as to reporting tightness of pack, filling of containers, 

presence of pads, liners, wraps, etc. 

Many pears are marketed in cartons and in half-box size cartons of various types 

and sizes. Most winter pears are wrapped and place packed; however, some are tray 

packed or consumer packaged. Summer pears may be wrapped and place packed or 

not wrapped and “volume filled.” Pears may also be packed lengthwise in rows and 

layers in common commercial arrangements. 
9

Standard Pack 

The purpose of Standard Pack is to certify that packs are tight or containers are 

full and that any sizing is fairly uniform and the containers are properly marked as to 

size. 

§51.1269 and §51.1310 Sizing. 

(a) The numerical count, or the minimum size of the pears packed in 

closed containers shall be indicated on the package. The number of 

pears in the box shall not vary more than 3 from the number 

indicated on the box. 

(b) When the numerical count is marked on western standard pear 

boxes the pears shall not vary more than three-eighths inch in their 

transverse diameter for counts 120 or less; one-fourth inch for 

counts 135 to 180, inclusive; and three-sixteenths inch for counts 

193 or more. 

(c) When the numerical count is marked on western standard half 

boxes or special half boxes packed three tiers deep, the pears shall 

not vary more than three-eighths inch for counts 75 or less; 

one-fourths inch for counts 80 to 110, inclusive; and three-sixteenths 

inch for counts 115 or more. 

(d) When the numerical count is marked on western standard half 

boxes or special half boxes packed two tiers deep, the pears shall 

not vary more than three-eighths inch for counts 50 or less; 

one-fourth inch for counts 55 to 70, inclusive; and three-sixteenths 

inch for counts 80 or more. 

(e) When the numerical count is not shown, the minimum size shall 

be plainly stamped, stenciled or otherwise marked on the container 

in terms of whole inches, whole and half inches, whole and quarter 

inches, or whole and eighth inches, as 2-1/2 inches minimum, 2-1/4 

inches minimum, or 2-5/8 inches minimum, in accordance with the 

facts. It is suggested that both minimum and maximum sizes be 

marked on the container, as 2-1/4 to 2-3/4 inches, 2-1/2 to 2-3/4 

inches, as such marking is especially desirable for pears marketed in 

the export trade. 

(f) “Size” means the greatest transverse diameter of the pear taken at 

right angles to a line running from the stem to the blossom end. 

§51.1270 and §51.1311 Packing. 
10

(a) Each package shall be packed so that the pears in the shown face 

shall be reasonably representative in size and quality of the contents 

of the package. 

(b) Pears packed in any container shall be tightly packed. All 

packages shall be well filled but the contents shall not show 

excessive or unnecessary bruising because of overfilled packages. 

(c) Pears packed in boxes shall be arranged in containers according 

to the approved and recognized methods with the pears packed 

lengthwise. A bridge shall not be allowed in any standard pack. 

When wrapped, each pear shall be fairly well enclosed by its 

individual wrapper. 

(d) Pears packed in round stave bushel baskets, tubs or in barrels 

shall be ring faced. 

§51.1271 and §51.1312 Tolerances for standard pack. 

(a) In order to allow for variations incident to proper sizing, not more 

than 5 percent of the pears in any lot may fail to meet the size 

requirements: Provided, That when the maximum and minimum 

sizes are both stated, an additional 10 percent tolerance shall be 

allowed for pears which are larger than the maximum size stated. 

(b) In order to allow for variations incident to proper packing, not 

more than 10 percent of the containers in any lot may fail to meet 

these requirements, but no part of this tolerance shall be allowed for 

bridge packs, or for packs with different sizes and arrangements 

such as layers of 195 size and arrangement, and layers of 180 size 

and arrangement packed in the same box. 

Packing

Pears shall be tightly packed and containers well filled but not overfilled to the 

point of causing excessive bruising. This means that the package is sufficiently filled or 

tight in layers to prevent movement of product within and to furnish a proper bulge for 

packages requiring a bulge. 

Pears packed in boxes shall be arranged in containers according to approved 

and recognized methods. In place packs, this means that the pears shall be packed 

lengthwise in rows and layers in officially recognized arrangements. In “jumble filled” 

containers, this means that the pears have been firmly settled and leveled to 

approximately the top of the box or carton, and that their net weight at least slightly 

exceeds that marked on the containers. 
11

When wrapped, each pear shall be fairly well enclosed by its wrapper. Pears in 

cell or tray containers must fill the individual cells or cups so that there is no movement 

of the fruit. When pears have settled in storage or transit, the container should be 

considered well filled if it weighs 5% more than the standard net weight of the container. 

TEMPERATURE OF PRODUCT 

Inspectors would not normally determine or report temperatures at shipping 

point. However, due to the importance of the pulp temperature of fresh fruits and 

vegetables when in transit or at destination, it is essential that the inspector accurately 

determine and report the temperature or range in temperatures on each lot. Pulp 

temperature should be reported regardless of the location of the product, whether in the 

carrier, warehouse, or stacked on the platform. Remember to precool the thermometer 

in order to obtain accurate readings. Report all temperatures to the nearest whole 

degree. 

A minimum of three temperatures for each lot must be taken and recorded on the 

notesheet. More temperatures must be taken if the lot is abnormally cold, heated, or 

there is a specific request for temperature, and these must be reported in greater detail 

specifying location in lot or load. 

SIZE 

In the U.S. Standards for Pears, “Size” is separate from grades as are the 

“Standard Pack Requirements.” 

§51.1269 and §51.1310 Sizing. (f) “Size” means the greatest 

transverse diameter of the pear taken at right angles to a line running 

from the stem to the blossom end. 

When determining either the minimum or maximum size of pears, measure the 

greatest transverse (crosswise) diameter at right angles to a line from the stem to the 

blossom end. 

When size is designated by diameter, state the range and, if the range is threefourths inch or greater, also show a “mostly.” When the range of size is only one-half 

inch and the sizes are uniformly distributed within the range, do not show “mostly.” 

When the numerical count is marked on the containers, no attempt should be 

made to show the range in inches or fractions thereof, except when there is a specific 

request to show this information. In reporting size of pears packed by count the 

following terms should be used unless the pears are packed on the basis of “Standard 

Pack” or on the basis of some State grade which contains other definitions for these 

terms: 
12

“Fairly uniform” may be used when the pears meet the size variations 

permitted in Standard Pack and the pears in the container are not more than one size 

smaller and one size larger than the size marked. 

“Irregular” is used when the pears fail to meet the size requirements of 

Standard Pack and when the pears in a container vary more than three sizes. 

Interpretation of Size Tolerance 

All of the U.S. Standards for pears and the State Standards for winter pears 

provide for a tolerance of 5% for undersize, but no individual package may contain more 

than 10% undersize; in addition there is a 10% tolerance for oversize when a maximum 

size is stated. However, when there is no undersize, the total tolerance of 15% may be 

used for oversize, which would permit individual packages to contain 22% oversize 

specimens, providing the average is 15% or less. Thus, any unused portion of the 5% 

tolerance for undersize may be used to increase the percentage of oversize allowed. 

For example, if a lot contained only 3% undersize, it would be permissible to have an 

average of 12% oversize. These tolerances appear in the Standards as requirements 

of Standard Pack. They also apply when Standard Pack is not certified in connection 

with the Grade. 

• Undersize 5% (10% permitted in a sample) 

• Oversize 10% (When maximum size is stated) 

• 15% Total 

• Unused % of undersize may be applied to oversize (except WA State grades) 

• Oversize up to 15% (22-1/2% permitted in a sample) 

• Example: 3% undersize, 12% oversize 

• Example: No undersize, then 15% oversize 

The Oregon State Standards for Summer and Fall Pears contain the same 

tolerances as the U.S. Standards. 

The Washington State Standards for Bartlett and Other Summer and Fall Pears 

provide a 5% tolerance for undersize and a separate 10% tolerance for oversize. 

Therefore individual samples may not contain more than 10% undersize or 15% 

oversize. 

Certifying Minimum Size When Fruit Shows Higher Minimum 

In reporting size of lots which show 5% or less, undersize for the next higher 1/4 

inch than marked, the facts should be reported in such a way that the certificate will not 

be misleading. This can be accomplished by showing under the “Size” heading that the 

lot complies with the actual marking on the container, but in addition that it contains less 

than 5% under the next higher 1/4 inch. For example, a lot marked “2-1/4 inch and up” 
13

but containing 5% or less under 2-1/2 inches, should be reported: “Generally 2-1/4 to 3-

1/4, mostly 2-1/2 to 3 inches in diameter, averaging 3% under 2-1/2 inches in diameter. 

If the packages are marked “2-1/4 inch up” and there are none under 2-1/2 

inches, that size should be shown as the bottom of the range followed with the 

statement: “None under 2-1/2 inches.” 

Size in Count Packs 

In determining whether more than five percent (5%) of the pears in a container 

vary more than is allowed, the inspector may have to resort to trial and error to 

determine his starting or base size. The problem is to find the smallest percentage 

outside the range allowed. In some instances, the smallest percentage outside the 

range may be the larger pears; in another instance it may be the smaller pears; or, it 

may be that some of each may give the smallest figure. 

Example: In a box of 100-size, the variation allowed is 3/8 inch. 

1 pear 2-11/16” 

 4 pears 

15 “ 

25 “ 

25 “ 

15 “ 

 9 “ 

2-12/16” 

2-13/16” 

2-14/16” 

2-15/16” 

3” 

3-1/16” 

 2 “ 

 3 “ 

 1 pear 

3-2/16” 

3-3/16” 

3-4/16” 

So we have seven pears (7%), the smallest percentage, outside of a 3/8 inch 

range, the variation allowed. Therefore, the sizing should be reported as “irregular.” It 

must be remembered that the application of one and one-half times the tolerance does 

not apply to the 5% of pears that are permitted to vary more than the ranges permitted. 

Size Marks on Lugs and Other Containers 

Pears in lugs and other containers can be sized with the same uniformity as 

pears in packed standard boxes, and if their size conforms to the definition of the term, 

they should be reported as being “fairly uniform.” 

Reporting the range of size in each size would be cumbersome and impractical if 

there are a number of sizes in a lot, but it is often desirable to report the over-all range 

of size for the lot, thus: “Generally 2-1/4 to 3-1/4 inches in diameter, fairly uniform sizing 

in cartons.” 

Sometimes pears in other containers are marked with the size they would pack in 

standards boxes, such as “120 size” or “equiv. to 120 size,” etc. When these marks are 
14

used, they may be reported under the “Products” heading thus: “Boxes stamped to 

indicate standard box size (100’s to 165 sizes noted).” 

Count-Size Marked or Lugs and Other Containers 

Containers are usually marked with standard pear box count-sizes such as 100, 

120, or 165, etc. 

When containers are marked with count-sizes, the pears must meet the diameter 

and tolerance requirements of U.S. Standard Pack. 

In order to determine whether the pears in a container marked to denote countsize meet the size requirements, the following procedure has been approved: 

From the container being checked for size, select at random the number of pears 

equal to one-half the number of the count-size designated: for example for 100 size 

select 50 pears. The net weight of this sample should be between 22 and 25 pounds 

(based on the range of net weights of a standard wood pear box). If the weight of the 

sample falls outside the 22 to 25 pound range, the container is mismarked as to size. 

However, since there are marketing orders from some States, check with those States 

to verify that a marketing order does not have another requirement (i.e., 165 standard 

pack and larger - Such pears shall be of a size that a sample of 82 1/2 pears, 

representative of the sizes of the pears in the package or container, weighs not less 

than 20 pounds). 

Sizing and Marking 

Packages must be marked with numerical count, count-size, or minimum 

diameter. When marked with count, the number of pears in a standard box shall not 

vary more than three (3) from count marked. CA, OR, and WA normally use 44 lb. net 

wt. or equivalent container as a standard box. For western boxes (usually 18 inches 

long, 11 1/2 inches wide, and 8 1/2 inches deep [inside measurements]) marked with 

count, and other containers marked with count-size, the following size variations are 

permitted: 

When the numerical count is marked on 

western standard pear boxes the pears 

shall not vary more than the following in 

their transverse diameter: 

120 and larger .......................... 3/8 inch 

135’s to 180s ........................ 1/4 inch 

195’s and smaller ................... 3/16 inch 
15

Five percent (5%) of the pears in a container may vary from these limitations and 

still meet Standard Pack. It provides that 10% of the containers in a lot may not meet 

the above requirements. Refer to the U.S. Standards for size variations permitted in 

smaller containers and for other details of Standard Pack. 

When count or count size is not marked on the container it must be marked with 

the minimum or minimum and maximum size in whole inches and not less than one -

eighth inch variations. 

Undersize averaging 5% and oversize averaging 10% are permitted. (See 

section entitled “Interpretation of Size Tolerance.”) 

DEFECTS (QUALITY AND CONDITION) 

Statements pertaining to freshness, maturity, shape, color, the amount and type 

of defects, and the amount of decay are shown under the appropriate headings. 

Factors noted with (Q) are considered as QUALITY only (Quality, sometimes 

referred to as “permanent” defects) means defects, which do not change during 

storage or shipment (i.e., shape, scars, etc.).

Factors noted with (C) shall be reported as CONDITION on market certificates. 

(Condition defects are defects that are subject to change during shipment or storage, 

including but not limited to bruising, discoloration, shriveling and decay.) 

Those factors noted with (Q or C) may be considered as QUALITY or 

CONDITION, depending on the circumstances. 

Defects at Shipping Point

At shipping point all defects are considered quality factors at the time of packing. 

Progressive defects of pears such as decay, scald, and cork spot are to be considered 

as affecting grade within a seven day storage period, provided they have not been in 

transit. However, if the pears have been in storage for more than seven days after 

packing, these progressive defects are scored as condition factors. 

§51.1268 and §51.1309 Condition after storage or transit. Decay, 

scald, or other deterioration which may have developed on pears 

after they have been in storage or transit shall be considered as 

affecting condition and not grade. 

Note: In the U.S. Standards for Grades of Winter Pears, the top grade is U.S. Extra 

No. 1 (corresponding to Oregon and Washington State Extra Fancy). 
16

Anjou Cork Spot (Q or C) 

Cork Spot should be treated as a factor of condition when found on Anjou pears 

inspected at destination or which are or have been in storage, although it is treated as a 

grade defect at time of packing. The occurrence of Anjou Cork Spot is usually found on 

the calyx-end half of the pear. The flesh in the affected areas is brown and corky. In 

less severe cases, the corky tissue can only be detected by cutting the fruit. When the 

injury is more pronounced, shallow surface depressions that are often difficult for the 

untrained eye to detect will appear above the corky spots. The areas become more 

evident as the pears ripen. Badly cork-spotted fruits are bumpy and irregular due to the 

numerous surface depressions caused by the disease. The internal spots may be so 

numerous as to involve almost the entire periphery of the fruit and may even occur deep 

in the flesh. The cause is unknown; however, occurrence tends to increase with a 

calcium deficiency. 

As a guide, the following amounts of external cork spot shall be scored when 

external evidence exists: 

• Score against U.S. Extra No. 1 when the pear shows depressions or the 

flesh is more than slightly affected. 

• Score against U.S. No. 1 when more than one spot is visible externally or 

when the flesh is materially affected. 

• Score against U.S. No. 2 when more than two spots are visible externally 

or when the flesh is seriously affected. 

The above grades limit internal cork by referring to the degree of injury to the 

flesh of the fruit. 

As a guide, the following amounts of internal cork spot shall be allowed if no 

external evidence exists: 

• For the U.S. Extra No. 1 grade, one spot 1/4 inch in diameter or an 

aggregate area of smaller spots not to exceed 1/4 inch; 

• For the U.S. No. 1 grade, one spot 1/2 inch in diameter or an aggregate 

area of smaller spots not to exceed 1/2 inch; 

• For the U.S. No. 2 grade, one spot 3/4 inch in diameter or an aggregate 

area of smaller spots not to exceed 3/4 inch. 

In judging whether individual fruits should be scored as injury, damage, or 

serious damage, they must be considered from an external and internal basis as well as 

a combination of the two. 
17

Therefore, when externally visible cork spot is found that is within the limitations 

of each definition, the inspector should cut or peel the pear to determine whether there 

is additional internal cork spot. If the external evidence is in excess of the respective 

definitions, obviously it will not be necessary to cut. 

When pear lots are being inspected, the inspector should cut or peel all 

suspicious cork spot specimens. If specimens are found that show cork spot not visible 

externally, representative specimens should be cut, following the selection procedure 

provided below. 

Sampling for Internal Defects

When inspecting for internal defects cut a minimum of two pears selected at 

random. If no scorable defects are found it is not necessary to make additional 

cuts for internal defects in that sample. If scorable defects are found cut an 

additional 8 pears from the sample for a minimum of 10 pears. When container 

tolerance is exceeded cut an additional 10 pears for a total of 20 pears. If the 

container tolerance is exceeded then cut the entire contents (100 count for bulk 

bins) of at least one sample. If the lot fails to meet the container tolerances after 

an entire container has been cut, the remaining cut samples shall consist of 20 

pears. If scorable defect is not detected in three successive samples, it is 

permissible to return to the cutting a minimum of two pears. 

The percentage of internal defects shall be calculated on the basis of the cut 

sample. A column on the notesheet shall be kept to record the number of fruit cut per 

sample. 

The correct procedure for detecting internal cork spot is to remove a thick paring 

from 1/4 to 1/2 of the area of the pear nearest the calyx. 

Anjou Greening (Q) 

The external appearance of the pear may resemble Cork Spot although there is 

no appreciable flesh discoloration associated with it. As the pear ripens, the green 

spots change very little in color. 

In order to score, Anjou greening has been classed into three categories 

depending on the degree of concentration of the spots. 
18

Anjou Greening Scoring Guideline (Degree of Concentration of Spots) 

Based on a mid-size pear (90 or 100) 

 Thinly Scattered Moderately Scattered Heavily Concentrated 

Injury

Score against 

U.S. Extra No. 1 

When an area 

over 10% of 

surface is 

affected. 

When affecting an 

area larger than a 

circle 1/2 inch in 

diameter. 

When affecting an area 

larger than a circle 3/8 

inch in diameter. 

Damage 

Score against 

U.S. No. 1 

When an area 

over 50% of the 

surface is 

affected. 

When an area over 

10% of the surface is 

affected. 

When affecting an area 

larger than a circle 1/2 

inch in diameter. 

Serious Damage

Score against 

U.S. No. 2 

Allow 100% of 

surface. 

When an area over 

25% of the surface is 

affected. 

When an area over 5% 

of the surface is 

affected. 

Note: Areas affected means that portion of the pear in which the spots are thinly or 

moderately scattered or heavily concentrated. Areas of spots should be aggregated 

when determining the portion of the pear affected but in no case should individual spots 

be aggregated to determine this. 

Black End (Q) 

Black End is a free from defect which means any amount is scored as serious 

damage against all U.S. grades for pears. 

Black End of pears is a physiological disease; that is, no bacteria or fungi are 

found associated with it. A water imbalance in the trees seems to cause this disorder. 

Other factors that contribute to this disorder are excessive subsoil moisture in the spring 

and irregular irrigation during the growing season. 

In its development, the first symptoms become evident when the fruit is a third to 

half grown, as a protrusion of the tissues around the calyx and an enlargement of the 

calyx opening. At this time the skin over the affected portion appears tight and shiny. 

As the disease progresses, the calyx lobes turn black, the tissues surrounding the calyx 

opening become woody and a brownish discoloration begins to form. This discoloration 

may appear at first in separate spots, which later coalesce; in other instances a large 

area may become completely and uniformly discolored from the beginning. The final 

color of the affected tissues is black. 
19

On many specimens the discoloration is confined to an area extending back from 

the calyx for a quarter to half an inch; on some, it covers half of the surface of the fruit. 

Occasionally, specimens are found that are not discolored at all, but have hard 

gritty flesh around the calyx, and the pointed or peaked appearance that characterizes 

true Black End fruits. 

Blister Mite Injury (Q) 

It occurs as a result of mites feeding on the developing pears, from the green-tip 

stage through bloom, causing russet spots. These spots, which are often oval in shape, 

are usually depressed with a surrounding halo of clear tissue. They are 1/4-1/2 inch in 

diameter and frequently run together. When the injury is severe or has occurred early in 

the life of the pear, it results in irregularly shaped scars or depressions. 

Score as injury against the U.S. Extra No. 1 grade when injury is not very shallow 

and superficial or where the injury affects an aggregate area of more than 1/4 inch. 

Score as damage against the U.S. No. 1 grade when the injury is not shallow or 

superficial (the injury has sunk below its surrounding area), or when the injury affects an 

aggregate area more than the area of a circle 3/8 inch in diameter. 

Score as serious damage against the U.S. No. 2 grade when the injury affects an 

aggregate area more than the area of a circle 3/4 inch in diameter or which materially 

deforms or disfigures the fruit. 

Blush 

Blush as used in the description of pears, refers to the red color usually occurring 

over the sun-exposed cheeks. There are no blush or color requirements in any of the 

grades, but it is desirable to report the blush when present. Varieties like the Seckel, 

Flemish Beauty and Red Bartlett may show considerable red color over the cheek. 

When there is an appreciable amount of blush, it should be described in general terms. 

Thus, “Many pears show blush on cheeks,” or “Some pears show blush on cheeks,” or 

“Pears generally show reddish blush on 1/4 to 3/4 of surface.” 
20

Bruising (C) 

Most shipments of pears reach the markets in a hard or firm condition, so little or 

no bruising is found in these shipments. However, some shipments are subject to 

bruising, especially if the pears are ripening or have been subjected to rough handling. 

The description of bruising on the certificate should include the location in the container 

and load, degree of firmness of the affected fruit and as to whether they cause damage 

or serious damage. Flattened, discolored bruises causing damage or serious damage 

are sometimes found in bottom layer containers in the car or trailer, possibly due to 

overhead weight, excessive vibration of the load, etc. 

The U.S. Extra No. 1 and U.S. No. 1 grades for winter pears, and the U.S. No. 1 

grade for summer and fall pears states that pears shall be free from damage by 

bruising. 

The following shall be scored against these grades: 

• any soft bruise*; 

• any bruise over 3/16 inch in depth; 

• any bruise over 7/8 inch in diameter; or 

• any combination of lesser bruises which detracts from the appearance, edible or 

marketing quality of the pear to an extent greater than any one bruise described 

in (a), (b), or (c) above. 

* “Soft” means that the affected flesh is mushy, often water soaked or discolored, 

and the bruised area yields readily to slight pressure. 

The U.S. No. 2 grade for both winter pears and summer and fall pears states that 

the pears shall be free from serious damage by bruising. 

The following shall be scored against these grades: 

• any bruise over 3/8 inch in depth; 

• any bruise over 1-1/4 inches in diameter; or 

• any combination of lesser bruises which detracts from the appearance, edible or 

marketing quality of the pear to an extent greater than any one bruise described 

in (a) or (b) above. 

The interpretation of scoring bruises applies to individual pears and the grade 

tolerances for defects. The dimensions of bruises allowed apply to medium sizes (100 

to 135 counts or 2-1/2 to 3 inches in diameter). Slightly larger bruises would be allowed 

on pears larger than 100 count (3 inches) and slightly smaller bruises would be allowed 

on pears smaller than 135 count (2-1/2 inches). 
21

Diagram of Pear Bruising Guide (Not to Scale)

Cleanness (Q) 

In connection with cleanness, it should be remembered that all U.S., Washington 

and Oregon Grades require the fruit to be clean. Even the Oregon Unclassified Grade 

and Washington 3rd Grade have the same requirements as the Extra Fancy for 

cleanness. The definition of “clean” is the same in all grades, which means, “Free from 

excessive dirt, dust, spray residue, or other foreign material.” Cleanness may be an 

important factor of quality under certain conditions. This is especially true when the 

foreign material is spray residue. 

The following terms should be used to describe cleanness: 

• “Clean” means free from excessive dirt, dust, spray residue, or other 

foreign material. 

• “Fairly clean” means showing sufficient dirt, dust, spray residue or other 

foreign material to materially affect the appearance of the individual 

specimen or lot. Pears reported as “fairly clean” would fail to meet the 

requirements of any grade. 
22

• “Dirty” means showing considerable dirt, dust, spray residue or other 

foreign material that seriously detracts from the appearance of the 

individual specimens or lot. 

Cottony Cork (Q) 

A disease about which very little is known is Cottony Cork of the Anjou pear. It is 

suspected to be caused by stink bugs feeding on the fruit late in the season. It should 

not be confused with Anjou Cork Spot. The affected tissues of Cottony Cork are white 

and spongy or cottony rather that brown and corky. Furthermore, Anjou Cork Spot is 

considered a factor of condition when found in lots of pears out of storage. Cottony 

Cork almost always appears near the stem end of the pear in contrast to Cork Spot, 

which typically is restricted to the calyx end. Cottony Cork is recognized readily by 

sharply sunken surface areas of varying shapes and sizes conforming to the location of 

the internal affected areas. The striking character of the spot is the cottony or pithy 

center and lack of browning. 

When fruits with Cottony Cork are sliced through the affected areas, the rapid 

browning due to oxidation occurs only on the healthy tissue. This is a good diagnostic 

symptom of Cottony Cork. Cottony Cork is not widely distributed and as of yet, has not 

become prevalent. Score Cottony Cork on the same basis as Anjou Cork Spot; but, as 

a quality defect. 

Discoloration (Dark Skin or Otherwise) (Q or C) 

Frequently the tender skinned varieties such as Bartlett, Comice and Flemish 

Beauty will show discolored areas due to rubbing against each other in the container or 

against the container. The brown or black discoloration also may be caused by rubbing 

against the belts of the sizing machines or sorting tables or excessive vibration in the 

vibrating machines at time of packing. Inspectors often apply different names to this 

skin injury, but for the sake of uniformity, the term “dark skin discoloration” should be 

used. If the discoloration occurred at shipping point, then score it as quality. If it 

occurred at destination or in transit, then score it as condition. 

Score as damage against the U.S. No. 1 grade when: 

• The color of the affected areas is a medium brown and the areas aggregate more 

than 5% of the surface, or 

• The color of the affected areas is very dark brown or black and the aggregate 

area exceeds that of a circle 3/4 inch in diameter, or 

• The color of the affected areas is a combination of medium brown and very dark 

brown or black and the appearance is affected to a greater extent than the 

maximum allowed in (a) or (b). 
23

Score as serious damage against the U.S. No. 2 grade when: 

• The color of the affected areas is a medium brown and the areas aggregate more 

than 15% of the surface, or, 

• The color of the affected areas is very dark brown or black and the aggregate 

area exceeds that of a circle 1-1/4 inches in diameter, or, 

• The color of the affected areas is a combination of medium brown and very dark 

brown or black and the appearance is affected to a greater extent that the 

maximum allowed in (a) or (b). 

Correspondingly larger areas shall be allowed when the affected areas are of 

lighter shades of brown than specified above. When describing this dark skin 

discoloration on the certificate, the percentage, color, and area affected and location in 

the containers and load should also be reported. Refer to color comparator PR-2, Dark 

Skin Discoloration, for illustrations of very dark brown and medium dark brown 

discoloration. 

Ammonia Injury

Occasionally a leak will develop in the refrigeration equipment allowing ammonia 

gas to escape and come in contact with the fruit. Exposure to these fumes at first 

causes reddish-brown rings around the lenticels and at abrasions. Upon removal to air 

free from ammonia fumes, the discolored areas turn black. With severe exposure, 

lenticel spots may become much enlarged and finally coalesce and the discoloration 

may extend into the flesh. Pears with a moist surface are more susceptible to injury 

than are dry pears. 

Score on the same basis as “Discoloration.” If ammonia injury cannot be readily 

identified, report and score it as “dark skin discoloration” on the notesheet and 

certificate. 

Firmness (C) 

The first indication can be obtained by thumb or finger pressure along with the 

appearance, or “ground color” of the fruit. If the ground color is green to light green and 

the flesh resists considerable pressure, the fruit is hard. This varies considerably; 

however, depending upon the variety. In some instances, the fruit may show 

considerable yellow “ground color” and still be hard, while in other instances the “ground 

color” will be green and yet will yield readily to pressure. Finally, a more reliable test will 

be a combination of pressure, “ground color,” taste, and chewing of the pared flesh. 

Sweetness or sourness to the taste cannot be given too much weight in determining 

firmness as the flesh of some varieties may have considerable flavor and still be hard. 

The flesh of a hard pear is coarse and granular. As the pear advances in maturity, the 

flesh gives more readily to pressure and the flesh becomes smoother in texture. A firm 

ripe pear generally shows yellowing to yellow ground color and the flesh is mellow 
24

depending upon the variety. A hard or firm pear leaves a residue of pulp in the mouth 

after chewing; a firm ripe or ripe pear is mellow and melts away with chewing. Dead 

ripe fruit has a mushy or slippery texture and discolors readily. All varieties taste and 

feel more crisp and firm when cold than at room temperature, and it is advisable to 

check the taste and feel after the fruit has been out of cold storage long enough to warm 

up. 

Normally the ground color of a hard pear is green to light green; of a firm ripe 

pear, turning; of a ripe pear, yellow. As previously indicated, too much dependence 

should not be placed upon ground color, however, for it will vary considerably within the 

same stage of firmness, depending upon the method of storage, temperature, degree of 

maturity when picked, length of time after picking before placed in storage, varietal 

characteristics and climate, soil and cultural conditions under which grown. Pears held 

at low temperature may show a green color and yet be firm to firm ripe. 

Pressure Testing

Pressure testing can be useful in determining the firmness of pears, especially in 

the case of “borderline” firmness of pears. However, as in the case of any of the indices 

that may be used to determine firmness, it should not be considered as the sole means 

or “absolute test” for determining firmness. As with the other indices there are variables 

that cannot be controlled precisely with this test that contribute to imprecise results. 

Keep in mind that it is best to perform pressure testing on pears before they have been 

put in cold storage or after they have reached room temperature. Nonetheless, this 

index used with other indices and the collective judgment of the inspector should 

provide a reasonably accurate determination of the degree of firmness of the fruit. 

USDA Circular 627, “Fruit Pressure Testers and Their Practical Application,” 

describes in more detail the use of pressure testers and contains pressure test limits 

recommended for harvesting pear varieties. Official firmness tables that define the 

stage of ripeness for pears have not been developed. When using a pressure tester for 

pears, remember use the 5/16 of an inch plunger. 

In order to perform a pressure test, at least 5 pears from each container must be 

selected and punctured. (Advise the applicant of this fact.) Each pear must be 

punctured twice on nearly opposite sides. Do not make the second puncture exactly 

opposite of the first puncture, as there may be damage to the tissue from the first test. 

The two readings are recorded individually. Only average two readings if specifically 

requested to do so by the applicant. Report the results in general terms using hard, 

firm, firm ripe, or ripe on the certificate in the “Description of Products” section on the 

shipping point certificate and in the “Other” section on the market certificate. For 

example, “Generally firm, few firm ripe.” If the applicant requests the readings to be 

reported on the certificate, report a range and mostly statement in the “Description of 

Products” section on the shipping point certificate and in the “Other” section on the 

market certificate. For example, “Pressure Test Readings (pounds): 8.0 to 11.5, mostly 
25

9.0 to 11.0.” Also, report in the “Remarks” section of the certificate “Pressure test 

readings reported at applicant’s request.” 

The following terms should be used in reporting the firmness of pears: 

• Hard means the flesh of the pear is solid and does not yield appreciably 

even to considerable pressure. The chewed flesh is coarse, granular and 

has a starchy flavor. Such pears are in suitable condition for long storage 

periods for the variety. 

• Firm means the flesh of the pear is fairly solid but yields somewhat to 

moderate pressure. This yielding is often first detectable around the neck 

near the stem. The chewed flesh is becoming less coarse and brittle, and 

a noticeable decrease in starchy flavor, with a slight increase in 

sweetness, can be detected. The ripening process, at this stage is further 

advanced than in hard pears, and they cannot be held in storage as long. 

Winter varieties can be held longer at this stage than early varieties. 

• Firm ripe means the flesh of the pear yields to moderate pressure. The 

pear is approaching the stage at which it is in prime eating condition. The 

flesh is becoming sweet in flavor and smooth in texture. Such pears may 

be held for a brief period although winter varieties can be held longer than 

the early varieties. 

• Ripe means that the pear is in its most desirable condition for eating. The 

flesh has reached its peak in sweetness and smoothness of texture. 

When pears are beyond the stage of “ripe,” the pears shall be scored as 

overripe. 

§51.1273 and §51.1314 Overripe. “Overripe” means dead ripe, very 

mealy or soft, past commercial utility. 

Reporting Firmness

Stages of firmness should be reported in general terms, thus: “mostly hard, 

some firm” or “mostly firm, many hard, some firm ripe.” When growers’ lots or any other 

lots vary materially, show firmness by lots. Contrary to the rule of reporting stages of 

firmness in general terms, undesirable overripe pears should be reported in definite 

percentages. 

Frozen or Freezing Injury (C) 

Freezing injury may occur when temperatures drop below the freezing point of 

the fruit. Inspectors must always clearly distinguish between fruit in a frozen condition 

and those affected by freezing injury. The term “frozen” should only be used when ice 

crystals are present. “Freezing injury” is the term that should be used when it is evident 
26

that the pear has been frozen but is not in a frozen condition at the time of inspection. It 

may be difficult to distinguish between bruising, freezing injury and internal breakdown. 

When reporting freezing or freezing injury it is important to give the following 

information: 

• Record pulp temperatures taken at various locations. 

• Determine and record extent of the injury in the load. 

• Determine and record extent of the injury in the containers. 

• Determine and record degree to which individual specimens are affected. 

• Describe the pattern of freezing or freezing injury in clear, concise terms. 

When the location of injury indicates where or when the freezing occurred this is 

to be stated. For example: “Freezing injury so located as to indicate occurred after 

packing but not in present location.” 

Ground Color 

Ground color refers to the underlying color of the skin over that area of the fruit, 

which shows no blush or red color. This color commonly changes from green on a hard 

pear to light green to yellowish green on a firm pear and to yellowish green to yellow on 

a firm ripe to ripe pear. However, it must be remembered that certain varieties 

produced in certain sections may vary considerably in degree of ground color with 

relation to firmness. For example, Bartletts produced in the mountain section of 

California may show a distinct yellow ground color and yet be firm, whereas, in some 

other sections the ground color of firm Bartletts will be green or yellowish green. 

The following terms should be used in reporting ground color: 

• Green 

• Light Green 

• Yellowish Green 

• Yellow 

Ground color should always be reported by the use of general terms in 

connection with the firmness statements unless the pears are so heavily russeted that it 

is impossible to determine ground color. This sometimes occurs on lots of Bosc and 

Winter Nelis pears. 
27

Hail Marks or Other Similar Depressions or Scars (Q) 

Pears that have been subjected to hail injury in their early stages may outgrow 

most of the injury but have a tendency to become misshapen. 

When pears are struck by hail late in the season, the cuticle covering the affected 

spots may be cracked and torn but often remains intact. Some spots range from 1/4 to 

1/2 inch in diameter, are slightly sunken and the underlying flesh is brown and spongy. 

Usually hail hits only the upper part of the fruit as it hangs on the tree. 

Score as injury against the U.S. Extra No. 1 grade when: 

• The depth is not very shallow or superficial; or, 

• The affected area aggregates more than the area of a circle 1/4 inch in diameter. 

Score as damage against the U.S. No. 1 grade when: 

• The affected area aggregates more than the area of a circle 3/8 inch in diameter; 

or, 

• More than 1/8 inch in depth including any underlying flesh, which is discolored. 

Score as serious damage against the U.S. No. 2 grade when: 

• The aggregate area is greater than the area of a circle 3/4 inch in diameter; or, 

• More than 1/4 inch depth including any underlying flesh which is discolored; or, 

• The pear is materially deformed or disfigured. 

Hard End (Q) 

This disease is closely related to Black End and is thought to be due to the same 

cause. Hard End is considered damage if the pear shows: 

• A distinctly constricted protrusion at the blossom end; or, 

• An abnormally yellow color at the blossom end; or, 

• An abnormally smooth, rounded base with little or no depression at the calyx; or, 

• If the flesh near the calyx is abnormally dry and tough or woody. 

Cutting is necessary to determine the extent of damage. Damage by Hard End is 

scored against all grades. However, the U.S. Extra No. 1 grade requires the pears to 

be free from injury by Hard End. 
28

Insects (Q or C) 

All of the U.S. pear grades have a limitation tolerance of 5% for serious damage 

by insects. If the lot fails to grade U.S. Extra No. 1 account serious damage by insects 

it, likewise, fails to grade U.S. No. 2. 

Pears with worms, worm holes, more than three Codling Moth stings, more than 

two Codling Moth stings over 3/32 inch in diameter, other insect stings affecting the 

appearance to an equal extent, Blister Mite or Canker Worm injury which affects an 

aggregate area of more than 3/4 inch in diameter, or which materially deforms or 

disfigures the fruit, should be scored as serious damage by insects. 

In scoring defects of pears, a separate column should be kept for serious 

damage by insects. 

Wormholes should be scored against all grades regardless of the depth or size of 

the hole. Holes made just before harvest are often very small and difficult to see. The 

fruit must be examined carefully to detect such injury. 

Worm Development While Shipment Is In Storage or Transit (C)

Late brood codling moth injury may develop after packing. Codling moth eggs 

may hatch shortly after shipping point inspection, and worm injury may develop where 

the pears are held for several days in common storage before shipment, or during 

transit. 

If the small site of the worms, presence of worm frass, or fresh worm holes 

found, raises a reasonable doubt in the mind of the inspector as to whether the injury 

occurred after packing, this injury should be treated as condition and serious damage 

against the 5% restricted tolerance for insects and reported as fresh worm damage. 

Concealed Worm Damage (Cutting Procedures)

Pears should be carefully examined for wormholes, as they are often difficult to 

detect, especially those occurring in the blossom end and especially so after the fruit 

has been washed. There may be no outward evidence if the worms are small and enter 

through the calyx cup. 

Inspectors will use the following cutting policy: 

Stationary Lots (and When Requested May Be Used For In-Line Inspection)

When there is evidence that concealed worm damage is present in the lot, a 

minimum of five (5) pears will be cut from each sample. When one (1) defective pear is 

found in the five (5) count sample, cut an additional fifteen (15) pears in the sample 
29

(total of twenty pears cut), or a total of five (5) pounds, when inspected on the basis of 

weight. 

If only two (2) pears are found in the twenty (20), no additional cutting for that 

sample is necessary. If more than two (2) pears are found in the twenty (20) count 

sample, (or more than 10% by weight), the entire container must be cut in order to 

determine if the container has met or exceeded the container tolerance of 10% for 

serious damage. 

When it is found that container tolerances are exceeded in one of the containers, 

it will only be necessary for market inspectors to cut twenty (20) pears from each of the 

remaining samples and shipping point inspectors to cut five (5) pears from each of the 

remaining samples. 

Internal Breakdown (Core Breakdown) (C) 

The breakdown is characterized by an extremely soft watery condition about the 

core, followed by rapid disintegration and discoloration in the tissue of this region, 

sometimes leaving only a shell of the outer tissue unaffected. It frequently occurs 

during the ripening of fruit that has been left on the tree too long before harvesting and 

also may occur in fruit that has been held too long in storage at low temperatures. In 

Bartlett pears, ripening at too high temperatures, in which case it is not confined to the 

core region, aggravates it. Breakdown is scored against the 1% tolerance for decay in 

all grades. 

Film bag liners in pear containers sometimes result in internal breakdown 

developing in pears if the bags are not perforated prior to ripening. This is a result of 

damage to the respiratory processes of the pear as it ripens due to depletion of oxygen 

and a build up of carbon dioxide gas in the bag. Most film bags liners are manufactured 

with small holes in the film to prevent the build up. When this is not the case, the bags 

are usually perforated at time of shipment. Occasionally, this is over-looked and a high 

percentage of internal breakdowns often result. 

All grades specify free from Internal Breakdown, but the pathologists refer to this 

condition as Core Breakdown. Likewise, in Misc. Pub. No. 168, Market Diseases of 

Fruits and Vegetables and Agricultural Handbook No. 376, Market Diseases of Apples, 

Pears and Quinces, the term “Core Breakdown” is used for this condition. Even though 

the grades refer to the condition as Internal Breakdown, it should be reported on the 

certificate as Core Breakdown. 

Limb Rubs (Q) 

Limb rubs are generally recognized by a brown to black hard scar that, upon 

cutting, will show a corky to hard mass underneath. The scar and a little of the area 

immediately surrounding it will frequently be depressed. 
30

Score as injury against the U.S. Extra No. 1 grade when: 

• They are cracked, softened, more than very slightly depressed, not light in color; 

or, 

• They exceed an aggregate area of 3/4 inch in diameter. 

Score as damage against the U.S. No. 1 grade when: 

• They are cracked, softened or more than slightly depressed; or, 

• Affected by black discoloration exceeding the area of a circle 3/8 inch in 

diameter; or, 

• Dark brown or excessively rough and larger than the area of a circle 1/2 inch in 

diameter; or, 

• Light colored and exceeding the area of a circle 3/4 inch in diameter; or, 

• Smooth, light colored scars larger than the area of a circle 1 inch in diameter. 

Score as serious damage against the U.S. No. 2 grade when: 

• They are more than slightly cracked or excessively rough; or, 

• Showing dark brown or black discoloration exceeding the area of a circle 3/4 inch 

in diameter; or, 

• Other limb rubs, which affect an aggregate area of more than 1/10 of the surface. 

Maturity (Q) 

All grades require that pears be in a mature state, which means that the pears 

have reached the stage of maturity that will ensure the proper completion of the ripening 

process. Pears must be picked in a hard stage of firmness to ripen into a satisfactorily 

edible product. No one indication is a positive sign of maturity but all of the following 

conditions taken together will give a fairly accurate indication that a pear has become 

mature: i.e., break in ground color from dark green to a lighter green, plumpness of 

seeds, dark color of seeds, spreading open of seed cavities, corking over of lenticels 

making them more prominent (especially on Bartlett), and increased accumulation of 

natural wax giving the fruit a “finish” (especially on Anjou). The pressure test is of 

considerable value in determining maturity. The test should be made with a plunger 

5/16 inch in diameter on a peeled area. 

Do not use “mature.” The term “mature” should not be used on the certificate 

because some receivers have misconstrued this term to mean ripe or ready for 

immediate consumption. However, if the pears are immature, this should be reported 

under the Quality heading as a part of the Quality statement or as a grade defect. 
31

Indicators of Immaturity 

Indication of immaturity is shriveling (when picked in a sufficient length of time to 

permit shriveling without ripening normally), white or undeveloped seeds, no break in 

ground color, dull green color of skin, hard, rubbery feel, not well rounded or filled out, 

somewhat angular, harsh surface as opposed to a waxy smooth surface for well 

matured pears, flesh exceedingly chewy, tough, starchy and granular. No one factor 

will hold true in all cases and any one may be misleading. All these factors vary to 

some extent with the variety, district in which grown, season, and weather conditions. 

No one factor should be considered positive proof of immaturity, with the possible 

exception of shriveling, but all should be considered in arriving at a decision. 

Mealy Bug (Q) 

The Mealy bug is a small, oval, flat insect less than 1/4 inch long, covered with 

white, powdery wax and normally has several white, tail-like filaments nearly half as 

long as the body. The egg sacs look like small masses of cotton. Sticky masses of 

gum in and around the calyx or other portions of the fruit indicate their injury. 

Score as damage against the U.S. No. 1 grade when the mass of gum materially 

injures the appearance. 

Score as serious damage against the U.S. No. 2 grade when the masses of gum 

severely injure the appearance. 

Moldy or Sloughing Stems of Winter Pears (C) 

Occasionally, winter pears that have been in cold storage until late in the spring 

will show surface mold and dampness on their stems. Sometimes this mold will 

progress until it has penetrated the woody tissues of the stem causing it to soften and to 

slough off when rubbed between the fingers. Studies by pathologists and by pear 

specialists indicate that the rate of progression of this stem infection is relatively slow. 

Also, while decay affecting the flesh of the pear is occasionally associated with the 

infection of the stem, there is no certainty that organisms affecting the stem also cause 

decay of the flesh. It is possible that flesh decay is a secondary infection. 

It has been observed that when moldy or soft and sloughing stems are exposed 

to warm air, the condition soon dries up and disappears. On becoming dry, the stems 

darken and become hard; or, if the softening and sloughing has progressed to 

advanced stages, the tissue dries to a dust. In either case, there is rarely an 

objectionable appearance that would be noticed by the consumer. 

Only at applicant’s request as not affecting grade should moldy, soft, and 

sloughing stems on winter pears be reported on the certificate. In such instances, the 

percentage of pears with stems that are only moldy and damp should be reported 

separately from the percentage of pears on which the stems have become soft and will 

slough off when rubbed between the thumb and fingers. 
32

One Variety (Q) 

A mixture of two or more varieties in the same container should be scored 

against all grades when not intentionally packed and labeled this way. Most of the 

commercial pear varieties are so different in characteristics that they are seldom mixed. 

Individual pears of a different variety are scored as defects when found mixed in 

containers. 

If pears are intentionally packed and labeled or it is plainly visible (i.e., gift pack 

containing a single layer of fruit) with two or more varieties (i.e., Comice, green and red 

Anjous) then each variety would be inspected and reported as separate lots. 

Pear Pyslla Injury (Q) 

Pear Pyslla injury appears as a mass of tiny black specks ranging from thinly 

scattered to heavily concentrated on the cheek of a pear. It is the result of a black 

fungus on the honeydew produced by the psylla insect. The honeydew is usually 

removed in the washing process; but, the black fungus specks do remain. 

To facilitate uniform scoring, pear psylla injury has been classed into three 

categories depending on the degree of concentration of the spots. See visual aid C-1, 

Pear Psylla, May 1990, for examples of moderately scattered and heavily concentrated. 

Also, two colored 35 mm slides (Pears 134 and 135) have been developed which 

illustrate these categories. With the aid of these slides and the visual aid, the following 

instructions should be followed when scoring pear psylla injury. 
33

Pear Psylla Injury / Degree of Concentration of Spots 

Thinly Scattered Moderately 

Scattered

Heavily 

Concentrated

Injury

Not U.S. Extra No. 1 

Not Extra Fancy 

When an area 

over 10% of 

surface affected. 

When affecting an 

area larger than a 

circle 1/2 inch in 

diameter. 

When affecting an 

area larger than a 

circle 3/8 inch in 

diameter. 

Damage

Not U.S. No. 1 When an area 

over 1/4 of 

surface affected. 

When affecting an 

area larger than a 

circle 3/4 inch in 

diameter. 

When affecting an 

area larger than a 

circle 1/2 inch in 

diameter. 

Serious Damage

Not U.S. No. 2 

Not State Fancy 

When an area 

over 1/2 of 

surface affected. 

When affecting an 

area larger than a 

circle 1-1/4 inches 

in diameter. 

When affecting an 

area larger than a 

circle 3/4 inch in 

diameter. 

Note: 

Area affected means that portion of the pear in which the spots are thinly or 

moderately scattered or heavily concentrated. Areas of spots should be aggregated 

when determining the portion of the pear affected but in no case should individual spots 

be aggregated to determine this. 

In applying the table on “Degree of Concentration of Spots,” it should be 

remembered that the limit of each degree of psylla injury (thinly scattered, moderately 

scattered, and heavily concentrated) is not permitted on an individual pear. For 

example, a pear of U.S. Extra No. 1 grade cannot have an area of 10 percent of the 
34

surface affected with “Thinly Scattered” spots, plus an additional area of 1/2 inch of 

“Moderately Scattered” spots, plus still another area of 3/8 inch of “Heavily 

Concentrated” spots. 

However, more often than not, there probably will be combinations of different 

degrees of injury on individual pears. Such pears shall be judged on the basis of the 

appearance as compared with the maximum permitted for any one degree of injury. For 

example, if a pear being judged for U.S. No. 1 grade has an area of about 1/8 of its 

surface covered with thinly scattered injury it could, in addition, have an area the 

equivalent of about 3/8 inch circle of moderately scattered injury or an area the 

equivalent of about 1/4 inch circle of heavily concentrated injury. 

Pithy Brown Core (C) 

Pithy, brown discolored areas in the core region of the fruits characterize this 

defect. Affected tissues are dry and pithy, in contrast to the soft, watery texture found in 

core breakdown. 

Sampling For Pithy Brown Core

When cutting for pithy brown core, a random sample is to be used to determine 

percentages. As a general rule 5 to 15 pears, by count, or 5 pounds by weight, 

depending upon the size of the fruit and container, should be taken from each sample 

and cut. The cuts for pithy brown core shall be a lengthwise cut to determine the 

presence or absence of the defect and two crosswise cuts, one equal distance between 

the stem and calyx end and the other an equal distance between the center cut and the 

calyx end to determine the degree. If either crosswise cut shows a sufficient degree to 

be scorable then that pear would be scored according to the grade being worked. The 

percentages shall be based on the cut sample and not on the total grade sample. Each 

cut sample must be recorded so that a range as well as an average may be reported. A 

mixing of samples, commonly called a composite sample, is not allowed. This is 

because of the limitation of individual container tolerances in the standards. 

Scoring pithy brown core: Pithy brown core shall be scored against the 10% lot 

tolerance. Score as injury when the flesh outside the seed cavity is slightly affected. 

Score as damage any discoloration outside a 7/8-inch circle including the seed cavity. 

Score as serious damage any discoloration outside a 1 inch circle including the seed 

cavity or if the flesh is separated. 

Russeting (Q) 

Russeting may be due to any one of a number of causes. Solid russeting over 

most of the surface usually is characteristic of some varieties, such as Hardy, Bosc, and 

Winter Nelis. Many other varieties usually show some russeting, particularly at the 

calyx, while some varieties usually are smooth with little or no russeting. Differences 

exist, not only between varieties, but also within the same variety as grown in different 
35

districts or locations. Also a variety grown in the same orchard will show considerable 

variation from one season to another. Such district or seasonal variations are due to 

climatic influence, and it generally is believed that low temperatures and high humidity 

during the early growth of the fruit tend to cause or increase russeting. 

On the contrary, warm dry weather during early growth may reduce the russeting, 

which normally is characteristic of varieties like Bosc or Winter Nelis. 

Frost injury to young pears will cause “frost markings” which usually show quite 

distinct, thick, and somewhat rough russeting. When severe, such marks usually show 

as depressions in the fruit as it matures, often showing complete or nearly complete 

depressed encircling rings that are normally heavily russeted. Such fruit, or course, 

usually is excluded from all commercial packs. 

Early Scab later killed by spraying or by hot dry weather, leaves russet scars 

which frequently become “frogged” or “excessively rough.” Chafing by “leaf whips” or by 

light limb rubs also induces russeting. Some spray causes russeting, and have, in fact, 

been used at times to increase russeting on Bosc and Winter Nelis. 

Scoring Russeting Under U.S. Grades (and State Winter Pear Grades)

Regardless of the cause, russeting is classified in the U.S. Standards 

according to its appearance as “smooth net-like,” “smooth solid,” “slightly rough or 

thick,” “rough or thick,” and “excessively rough.” In addition, speckled russeting, 

commonly occurring around the lenticels on some varieties, should be considered both 

as normal and characteristic or, on smooth skinned varieties, be covered by the same 

restrictions as “smooth solid” russeting. 

The tabulation of the amounts of russeting permitted in the standards refers to 

aggregate areas of specific types of russeting on individual pears. Combinations of one 

or more types of russeting are permitted which do not detract from the appearance to a 

greater extent than the maximum amount of any one type permitted. When an 

individual fruit has the maximum amount of any one type of russeting, no additional 

russeting of any type is permitted, except characteristic smooth russeting confined to 

the calyx end as specified in the winter pear standards. 

Smooth Solid and Smooth Net-Like Russeting

It will be noted that smooth solid and smooth net-like russeting are considered on 

the same basis, with the single exception of Anjou in the U.S. Extra No. 1 grade. This 

type of russeting is, or course, limited only in the smooth varieties, with the single 

exception of Comice in the U.S. Extra No. 1 grade. 

The variation in the density and pattern of net-like russeting sometimes makes it 

difficult for inspectors to aggregate areas affected with this type of russeting. Therefore, 

as a guide, inspectors should keep in mind the areas affected with net-like russeting, as 
36

specified for each grade, should affect the appearance of a pear to the same degree as 

the area of smooth solid russeting specified for the grade. 

Slightly Rough or Thick Russeting

It will be noted that in Comice and other smooth skinned varieties there are 

restrictions in the U.S. Extra No. 1 and the U.S. No. 1 grades on “slightly rough 

russeting, or thick russeting, such as is characteristic of frost injury.” Much of the 

russeting of this type, which shows as a contrasting blemish on pears of these varieties, 

would not be readily apparent on characteristically russeted varieties such as Hardy or 

Bosc. Accordingly, the limitation on such varieties is less severe, as indicated by the 

omission of the word “slightly” in the definition. Since russeting is considered only as an 

appearance factor, it is not intended to be restrictive unless it actually is a blemish which 

“injures” or “damages” or “seriously damages” the appearance, according to the grade 

in question. 

Fairly Smooth and Not Thick Russeting

In the U.S. No. 2 grade, russeting characteristic of frost injury which is fairly 

smooth and not thick may be allowed on that portion of the calyx end not visible for 

more than 1/2 inch along the contour of the pear when it is placed calyx end down on a 

flat surface. Note that this applies to the U.S. No. 2 grade only, and is in addition to the 

15% of the surface of frost type russeting allowed in the U.S. No. 2 grade. 

Excessively Rough Russeting

Excessively rough russeting (russeting which shows “frogging” or slight cracking) 

is specifically restricted in all grades for all varieties. 

Characteristic Russeting Permitted

It will be noted that, in the U.S. Standards for Winter Pears, all restrictions on 

smooth net-like and smooth solid russeting are modified by the exception that “in 

addition, any amount of characteristic smooth russeting shall be permitted on that 

portion of the calyx end not visible for more than one-half inch along the contour of the 

pear, when it is placed calyx end down on a flat surface.” (It does not apply to Bartlett 

and other smooth skinned varieties.) Asterisks indicate this exception where it applies 

in the following tabulation: 
37

Amount of Russeting Permitted Under U.S. Grades 

Smooth 

Netlike 

Smooth Solid Slightly 

Rough or 

Thick 

Rough or 

Thick 

Excessively 

Rough 

Summer and Fall U.S. No. 1

Bartlett and other 

smooth varieties 15% of surface 3/4” --- 1/2” 

Hardy, Sand and 

other similar 

varieties 

--- --- --- 3/4” 1/2” 

U.S. No. 2

All varieties --- --- --- 15% of surface 3/4” 

Winter

U.S. Extra No. 1

Comice* One-third of surface 1/2” --- None Allowed 

Anjou and other 

smooth and 

skinned varieties 

15% of 

surface 1/2” 1/2” --- None Allowed 

Bosc and other 

similar varieties --- --- --- 1/2” None Allowed 

U.S. No. 1

Anjou* One-third of surface 3/4” --- 1/2” 

Other smooth 

skinned varieties* 15% of surface 3/4” --- 1/2” 

Comice, Bosc & 

Other similar 

varieties**

--- --- --- 3/4” 1/2” 

Smooth 

Netlike 

Smooth Solid Slightly 

Rough or 

Thick 

Rough or 

Thick 

Excessively 

Rough 

U.S. No. 2 

Anjou** 2/3 of 

surface 

 --- 15% of surface 3/4” 

Other smooth 

skinned varieties** --- --- --- 15% of surface 3/4” 

Comice, Bosc & 

other russeted 

varieties***

--- --- ---- 15% of surface 3/4” 

* In addition any amount of characteristic smooth russeting permitted on portion of calyx 

end not visible for more than 1/2” along the contour of the pear when placed calyx end 

down on a flat surface. 

** In addition any amount of characteristic smooth russeting and fairly smooth but not 

thick frost russeting permitted on portion of calyx end not visible for more than 1/2 inch 

along contour of the pear when placed calyx end down on a flat surface. 

*** On any of these varieties any amount of characteristic russeting permitted. 
38

Russeting Permitted Under the Washington State Standards for Bartlett and

Other Summer and Fall Pears

The Washington State standards and grades for summer and fall pears are 

similar to the requirements of the U.S. Grades for russeting. There are some important 

differences however, so the inspector should refer to the State grades and definitions of 

damage and serious damage when inspecting on the basis of these grades. 

San Jose and Other Scales (Q) 

The amount of scale permitted in the various grades is not defined in the 

Standards. Ordinarily, a few small inconspicuous scales, which are gray, and have not 

caused distinct red spots, are disregarded and not considered as damage. 

The method of scoring scale against the U.S. grades is based on the number of 

distinctly red spots caused by the scale, whether the scale insect is present or not, and 

how they affect the appearance of the pear. 

Score as injury against the U.S. Extra No. 1 grade when more than one (1) 

distinctly red spot is present. 

Score as damage against the U.S. No. 1 grade when more than two (2) red spots 

are present. 

Score as serious damage against the U.S. No. 2 grade when more than six (6) 

red spots are present. 

Scab (Q) 

Scab lesions first occur on the calyx end and later on the side of the fruit. As the 

spots expand and coalesce, large, dark brown to black patches develop. Scab will often 

cause fruit to become misshapen. Infections appearing five to seven weeks after fruit 

set are small (2-5 mm in diameter), circular, dark, velvety spots. Darker, pinpoint spots 

with few fungal spores may develop as the fruit mature or after the fruit are placed in 

cold storage. 

Score as damage against the U.S. No. 1 grade when the spots are black and 

aggregate more than the area of a circle 1/4 inch in diameter. 

Score as serious damage against the U.S. No. 2 grade when the spots are black 

and affect an aggregate area larger than the area of a circle 1/2 inch in diameter. 

Scab also occurs as rough areas, in which the skin is cracked. Russet type scab 

should be scored under the definitions of russeting. The measurements for diameter 

should be taken on the contour of the pear, and from the edge of the crater to the 

opposite edge. 
39

Scald (C) 

Scald falls into two general categories. Each of which are a free from defect in 

all grades. 

Anjou Scald (Superficial Scald)

This is one of the more common physiological (no bacteria or fungi are found 

associated with it) skin diseases, and occurs on Anjou and Packham’s Truimph 

varieties. It appears as a brown discoloration and is restricted to the skin. The skin 

does not soften and slough off, and is not accompanied by unpleasant odors. Spraying 

or dipping with the proper scald-inhibiting chemical or with impregnated wraps can 

prevent this disorder. Oiled paper wraps usually control the disease satisfactorily only 

until early March. 

Common Scald (Senescent Scald)

This is another physiological (no bacteria or fungi are found associated with it) 

skin disease of pears. Common Scald occurs when the fruit becomes senescent 

(matures or ages during storage). It first appears as a brown to black skin discoloration, 

but progresses rapidly into the flesh at moderate to high temperatures. In late stages, 

the skin weakens and sloughs off readily. Affected pears have a characteristic 

disagreeable odor and taste. The disorder is more severe on immature fruits than on 

mature fruits. Bartlett and Bosc are particularly susceptible to this disorder. This 

disease can be reduced by harvesting the fruit at proper maturity and by prompt storage 

at 30 - 31° F. 

Shape (Form) (Q) 

The shape of pears should be considered from the standpoint of the 

characteristic shape of the variety being inspected. Characteristic shape of various 

varieties of pears shows a wide variation, and many have characteristics that make 

them outstanding with reference to shape. The Bosc, for example, is generally 

extremely long, whereas the Anjou is short and plump. Characteristic shapes of some 

varieties also vary considerably in the same variety. Inspectors should study the official 

models illustrating shapes of pears. 

The following terms should be used in describing shape of pears according to the 

Washington, Oregon, or U.S. Grades: 
40

Minimum Shape Requirements Grade Summer and 

Fall Winter

Well Formed 

U.S. Extra No. 1 X 

Oregon Extra 

Fancy X 

Wash. Extra 

Fancy X X 

Fairly Well Formed 

U.S. No. 1 X X 

Oregon Extra 

Fancy X 

Not Seriously Misshapen 

U.S. No. 2 X X 

Oregon Fancy X X 

Wash. Fancy X X 

Not Very Seriously Misshapen Wash. 3rd Grade X 

Not so excessively elongated or 

flattened as to preclude the cutting of 1 

good half 

Washington C 

Grade X 

Well Formed - This means having the shape characteristic of the variety. When 

there are slight irregularities of shape from type which do not appreciably detract from 

the general appearance of the fruit, shall be considered well formed. “Well formed” 

meets the requirements of all grades. 

Fairly Well Formed - In the U.S. No. 1 grade means that the pears may be 

slightly abnormal in shape but not to an extent which detracts materially from the 

appearance of the fruit. Pears that have one side so flattened that the core is definitely 

off-center or pears that are excessively rough or angular are not considered “fairly well 

formed” in the grade. Refer to the models on shape for the interpretation of this term. 

Slightly Misshapen - This describes the shape of pears which are “not 

seriously misshapen” but are not good enough to be classed as “fairly well formed” as 

defined in the U.S. Standards. This term may be used to describe shapes that are 

acceptable in the U.S. No. 2, Washington and Oregon Fancy grades for both summer 

and fall and winter pears. 
41

Seriously Misshapen (Badly Misshapen) - This means that the pear is 

excessively flattened, or elongated for the variety, or is constricted or deformed so it will 

not cut three fairly uniform good quarters, or is so badly misshapen that the appearance 

is seriously affected. Seriously misshapen pears should be scored as grade defects 

against the U.S. No. 2 and Washington Fancy grades as well as the Oregon Fancy 

grade. 

Very Seriously Misshapen - This is a term sometimes used in marketing orders 

but is not used in the U.S. grades. It means that the pear is so excessively flattened, 

elongated for variety, constricted or deformed that it will only cut one good half. The 

good half must be free from injury as defined in the U.S. Standards. 

In the State of Washington, Third Grade for winter pears, “very seriously 

misshapen” is defined as being so excessively flattened, elongated for the variety or 

constricted or deformed that it will only cut one good half or two fairly uniform quarters. 

Shriveling (C) 

Pears in storage late in the season sometimes develop shriveling. This may be 

due to several causes, the most common of which are (a) harvesting the pears when 

they are in borderline stages for maturity and (b) the loss of moisture in storage, 

probably due to low humidity. 

Shriveling usually starts around the stem and spreads over the cheeks of the 

pears as it develops. Slight shriveling occurring only around the stem should be 

disregarded. Pronounced shriveling around the stem or any shriveling elsewhere on the 

pear (5% of the surface of the fruit) should be scored as damage. Shriveling that is 

deep or affects large areas (10% of the surface of the fruit) should be scored as serious 

damage. 

Skin Breaks/Stem Punctures (Q) 

All U.S. grades and Oregon and Washington Extra Fancy and Fancy State 

grades require pears to be free from damage by broken skins. Stem punctures should 

be included under this heading. Damage by broken skins or a skin break is defined in 

the following paragraphs. 

In these grades, pears showing one or more skin breaks in excess of 3/16 inch in 

diameter or depth should be scored as defective. Pears showing two or more skin 

breaks between 1/8 and 3/16 inch in diameter or depth should be scored as defective 

against these grades. Diameter should be computed as aggregate areas. 

Under the definition of damage by skin breaks, there is provision that not more 

than 15% of the pears in any container may have one skin break 1/8 to 3/16 inch 

including diameter or depth. It is important to remember that the application of 1-1/2 

times the tolerance does not apply to this 15% of pears which may show one skin break 
42

from 1/8 to 3/16 inch in diameter or depth in any container because the application of 

tolerances does not apply to the amount allowed under the definition of damage. 

Pears showing one skin break from 1/8 to 3/16 inch in diameter or depth should 

be scored in a separate column on the notesheet. 

Any container that shows more than 15% of these skin breaks is damaged and 

out of grade. In other words, it is not permissible to average the lot in grade when one 

or more boxes show more than 15% of pears with one skin break from 1/8 to 3/16 inch 

in diameter or depth. The lot as a whole is out of grade; but, the entire box should 

be used as the sample.

Pears showing skin breaks less than 1/8 inch in diameter or depth should not be 

scored as grade defects. 

Punctures in State Grades (Q)

In most State grades, punctures and other skin breaks are scored on the same 

basis as they are in the U.S. grades. 

In the Washington State grade for summer and fall pears, the “C” grade allows 

broken skins up to 1/4 inch in diameter. 

Sooty Blotch (Q) 

Sooty Blotch is marked by sooty patches or spots, usually very small but 

sometimes very irregular in size and shape, which may occur on any part of the fruit. 

They are easily removed by scraping with the fingernail or knife. On Kieffer pears, a 

zone of russet often surrounds the blotches. 

Score as damage against the U.S. No. 1 grade when the spots are thinly 

scattered over more than 5% of the surface, or when dark, heavily concentrated spots 

affect an area larger than the area of a circle 3/8 inch in diameter. 

Score as serious damage against the U.S. No. 2 grade when thinly scattered 

over more than 15% of the surface, or when dark, heavily concentrated spots affect an 

area greater than the area of a circle 3/4 inch in diameter. 

Sprayburn or Sunburn (Q) 

A strong application of certain kinds of sprays may cause sprayburn, while 

unusual exposure to sunlight may cause sunburn. 

Score as injury against the U.S. Extra No. 1 grade when: 

• The normal color of the fruit has been materially changed; 
43

• The skin is blistered or cracked; or, 

• The flesh is softened or discolored. 

Score as damage against the U.S. No. 1 grade when: 

• The skin of the pear is blistered, cracked or shows light tan or brown color; 

• Shape is appreciably flattened; or, 

• The flesh is appreciably softened or changed in color. 

Score as serious damage against the U.S. No. 2 grade when: 

• The skin is blistered or cracked or shows brownish color; 

• When the pear is materially flattened; or, 

• The flesh is softened or is materially changed in color. 

Sprayburn of a russet character shall be considered under the definition of 

russeting. 

Stings (Q) 

Stings are caused by insects such as the Codling Moth starting to enter the fruit 

through the skin but for one reason or another never complete the entry. The point of 

attack usually forms a hard brown scar that is surrounded by a slightly sunken area and 

an encircling green ring. When measuring the diameter of a sting, the encircling green 

ring should be included in the measurement. 

Score against the U.S. Extra No. 1 grade when: 

• There are more than two healed slight insect stings or depressions; or, 

• There are any insect stings which materially affect the general appearance of the 

fruit. 

Score as damage against the U.S. No. 1 grade and the Oregon Extra Fancy grade for 

summer and fall pears when: 

• There are more than 2 healed Codling Moth stings; or, 

• Any insect sting which is over 3/32 inch in diameter; or, 

• Other insect stings that affect the appearance to an equal extent. 

Score as serious damage against the U.S. No. 2 grade and the Oregon Fancy Grade for 

summer and fall pears when: 
44

• There are more than 3 healed Codling Moth stings, or more than 2 are over 3/32 

inch in diameter; or, 

• Other insect stings affecting the appearance to an equal extent. 

Stony Pit (Q) 

Stony Pit has been found to occur chiefly on Bosc pears but also affects Anjous. 

On Bosc, the symptoms are deep pits and deformed fruit. The pits are caused by the 

cessation of growth of the affected tissue early in the development of the pear. The 

borders of the deformed areas sometimes are dark green resembling a halo. The tissue 

at the base of the pits becomes necrotic or corky. Fruits bearing several pits become 

gnarled and so woody that they are difficult to cut with a knife. Trees producing affected 

fruit frequently have “oak bark” condition of the branches. 

Stony Pit on Anjous closely resembles Cork Spot and is often confused with it. 

The affected tissues provide little resistance when cut (unlike the masses of stone 

cells of Stony Pit). There are well defined pits that are distinctly different from the 

uneven, bumpy surface associated with Cork Spot. 

On Bosc, score 2 small or one large pit as damage and 3 small or 2 fairly large 

or one very large pit as serious damage. 

On Anjous, score on same basis as Anjou Cork Spot. 

Storage Scab (Q or C) 

Pear scab lesions present on fruit (when picked), frequently enlarge as much as 

1/4 inch in diameter during the normal storage period, and the fungus on the spots 

becomes black and more easily seen. The greatest change found in scab during 

storage is often in appearance of new lesions. Such lesions are initiated during long, 

wet periods in the latter part of the summer, but are not visible at picking time. 

Sometimes these new lesions are readily distinguishable from old lesions of small size. 

Both become jet black, and often both produce a low tuft of fungus growth in the center 

of the lesion. Unlike those appearing in the orchard, some of the storage lesions do not 

break through the cuticle at all but develop in the cells beneath producing black shiny 

spots. This characteristic and the small size of the lesions are helpful in identifying 

Storage Scab. Corky tissue occurs in the center of the orchard lesions, but is not 

present in the storage spots. However, cork is not easily identified in small lesions. 

There is no evidence that scab spreads from one fruit to another in storage. Slight 

variations in humidity and temperature of the storage room have little effect on the 

development of scab. New lesions may appear earlier on fruit in common storage than 

on fruit in storage at 31-32° F, but eventually similar fruit in cold storage will show as 

heavy an infection. 

In scoring scab on lots in storage, score with other defects all pears that show 

corked-over spots that exceed the areas permitted by the grade. The other type (with 
45

no signs of cork), which exceeds the amount permitted by the grade and develops in 

storage, should be counted as condition defects. 

Sunscald (Q) 

Sunscald is found occasionally as small to large, tan colored to brown, slightly 

shriveled spots, especially on pears formerly protected, but suddenly exposed to the 

sun, as inside fruit that might lie unprotected in the tops of picking boxes for some time 

in bright sunlight. 

Score as damage against the U.S. No. 1 grade when: 

• The skin is discolored tan or brown; or, 

• The skin is soft or shriveled. 

Score as serious damage against the U.S. No. 2 grade when: 

• Discolored areas on the skin are large or dark; or, 

• The skin is shriveled; or, 

• The flesh is softening. 

Decay (C) 

The presence or absence of decay is very important and is frequently the factor 

that decides when and how pears are sold. For this reason, a statement showing the 

presence or absence of decay is always necessary. When decay apparently follows 

stem punctures, calyx injury, etc., the facts should be stated. 

When decay is found, it should be reported in percentages even though small in 

amounts, for example: “Less that 1/2 of 1% decay” or “Less than 1% decay.” Describe 

the degree of advancement as early, moderate or advanced stages. 

Refer to Agriculture Handbook No. 376, Market Diseases of Apples, Pears and 

Quinces and General Shipping Point or the General Market Inspection Instructions for 

additional instructions. 

GRADE 

When the load inspected consists of different lots, part of which is up to grade 

and part of which fails to meet the grade requirements, it will be necessary to make 

separate statements for the different lots. In all such cases, indicate the grade for each 

lot and avoid grade statements that are indefinite, or that tend to contradict what has 

been reported under the previous headings of the certificate. Remember that the grade 

statement is an interpretation of the facts previously given. Whenever any lot is 
46

reported as failing to meet the requirements of a certain grade, the reason for its failure 

to grade must be given. 

If a lot of pears show grade defects in excess of the tolerance, and also decay or 

other deterioration, each should be reported under the appropriate heading. The lot will 

simply be reported as failing to meet the requirements of the grade. No mention of the 

condition factors should be made in the grade statement in this case. 

Defects Which Develop After Packing 

In the U.S., Washington, and Oregon grades decay, scald, or other deterioration 

that may have developed after the pears have been stored or in transit shall be 

considered as affecting condition and not the grade. The correct grade statement when 

decay and/or other condition defects are in excess of the tolerance is illustrated in the 

following example: U.S. Extra No. 1 (or Washington Extra Fancy or Oregon Extra 

Fancy) decay, Scald, etc., being factors of Condition. 

Progressive defects of pears such as: decay, scald, and cork spot are to be 

considered as affecting grade within a seven day storage period, provided they have not 

been in transit. 

U.S. Combination Grade 

There is no provision for a combination of U.S. Extra No. 1 and U.S. No. 1. The 

Combination Grade applies only to U.S. No. 1 and U.S. No. 2. Therefore, it would not 

be permissible to certify Combination U.S. Extra No. 1 and U.S. No. 1. 

The second paragraph under “Tolerances” in the U.S. Standards specifies that 

when applying the foregoing tolerances to the Combination Grade, no part of any 

tolerance shall be used to reduce the percentage of U.S. No. 1 pears required in the 

combination (50%) but individual containers may have not more than 10% less than the 

percentage of U.S. No. 1 required provided that the entire lot averages within the 

percentage specified (50% or higher percentage reported). This means that when a 

percentage of U.S. No. 1 Quality is specified in the grade statement, as “U.S. 

Combination, approximately 60% U.S. No. 1 Quality,” then individual containers cannot 

have more than 10% less U.S. No. 1 Quality than the percentage as shown in the grade 

statement. This policy does not apply to Washington State Combination Grades, but 

does apply to State of Oregon Combination Grades. 

If it is found that the averages for a lot meet the requirements of U.S. 

Combination Grade but some containers have more than 10% below the average of 

U.S. No. 1 pears in the lot, such a lot may be reported as “Fails to meet U.S. 

Combination, averaging U.S. No. 1 Quality” or, in lieu of this statement, the range and 

average percent of U.S. No. 1 quality may be reported in connection with the 

Combination Grade. For example, pear lots that meets the requirements of U.S. 

Combination and has an average of 70% U.S. No. 1 pears, but includes individual 
47

containers with only 45% U.S. No. 1 pears shall be reported: “U.S. Combination, 

ranging from 45% to 85%, averaging approximately 70% U.S. No. 1 quality.” 

Since the U.S. Combination Grade requires an average of at least 50% 

U.S. No. 1 quality, with no sample showing more than 10% less, any lot with one or 

more samples having less than 40% U.S. No. 1 quality would not meet these basic 

requirements. In this case, the range and average should not be stated, as was done in 

the previous paragraph for lots with higher percentages of U.S. No. 1 quality. 

Reporting the Percentage of Pears Meeting the Higher Grade Requirements in 

Combination Grades 

Except when the applicant requests the percentage of the higher grade, report 

the lot as grading U.S. Combination or State Combination without any further reference 

to the percentage of the higher grade. When lots are sold to contain a larger 

percentage of the higher grade than the Combination requires, it will be satisfactory to 

report the grade followed with the statement of the percentage of higher grade. When 

reporting the percentage of a higher grade, it should be reported under the “Grade” 

heading; thus: “U.S. Combination, approximately 65% U.S. No. 1 quality.” 

Percentage of U.S. No. 1 Quality 

In percentage loads, the size is not a grade requirement and so pears which are 

smaller that the size marked on the package cannot be included with the defects and 

deducted from the percentage of U.S. No. 1 quality, except that when the percentage of 

U.S. No. 1 quality is to be followed with the size statement as, “Approximately 75% U.S. 

No. 1 quality, 2-1/2 inch minimum,” the percentage under 2-1/2 inches should also be 

subtracted from 100. Likewise, when both the minimum and maximum sizes are 

reported with the percentage of U.S. No. 1 quality, both undersize and oversize must be 

subtracted from 100. 

More complete grade statements on percentage cars, decay and other serious 

defects of a progressive nature need not be mentioned under grade when they are 

within the grade tolerance. The following procedure applies only when a percentage of 

U.S. No. 1 quality is shown without a definite grade statement: For example, when a lot 

is reported as U.S. No. 2 with an approximate average percentage of U.S. No. 1 quality, 

it will not be necessary to show the percentage of decay or other serious defects of a 

progressive nature since they are within the tolerance permitted by the U.S. No. 2 

grade. However, if the percentage of U.S. No. 1 quality is to be shown without a definite 

grade statement, the percentage of decay and other serious defects of a progressive 

character must be reported in connection with this percentage statement under “Grade” 

heading, providing either exceeded the grade tolerance. 

Factors that should be considered of a serious progressive character are as 

follows: Decay and Internal Breakdown. 
48

U.S. STANDARDS AND OREGON STATE STANDARDS 

The Oregon State Standards for Pears, with the exception of the Oregon 

Commercial grade, are identical with the U.S. Standards in definitions but not in names, 

as follows: 

Summer and Fall Pears

Oregon Extra Fancy = U.S. No. 1 

Oregon Fancy = U.S. No. 2 

Oregon Combination = U.S. Combination 

Winter Pears

Oregon Extra Fancy = U.S. Extra No. 1 

Oregon Fancy = U.S. No. 2 

Oregon Commercial = 

U.S. Combination except that broken skins and skin punctures that do not exceed threesixteenths (3/16) inch in diameter shall not be considered a defect of this grade. 
49

SUMMER AND WINTER PEAR GRADES COMPARISON 

U.S. No. 1

Summer Pears Winter Pears

Fairly well formed Slightly abnormal 

shape. Same 

Hard end Protruding yellow, 

smooth dry flesh 

at calyx. 

Same 

Skin breaks 3/16”, 1/8”, 15% Same 

RUSSETING: 

Excessively rough 1/2 inch Same 

Slightly rough or thick

on Bartletts 

3/4 inch Same-Anjous 

Rough or thick on Hardys, 

Sands, etc. 

3/4 inch Same-other Winter 

Smooth solid or net on 

Bartletts 

15% surface 1/3 surface on Anjous, 15% 

on other smooth varieties 

Russet at calyx None 1/2” on flat surface 

Characteristic on Sands, 

etc. 

Any amount Same on Bosc, Comice, etc. 

LIMB RUBS: 

Cracked, soft depressed None Same 

Black discoloration 3/8 inch Same 

Dark brown or extra rough 1/2 inch Same 

Light color, slightly rough 3/4 inch Same 

Light color, smooth 1 inch Same 

Cork Spot Not found Same 

Hail Marks 3/8 inch Same 

Drought Spot 1 or 3/8 inch Same 

Sunburn Light tan Same 

Stings 2 or over 3/32 Same 

Blister mite 3/8 inch Same 

Scab, black 1/4 inch Same 

Sooty Blotch 5% or 3/8 inch Same 
50

The only difference between the requirements for summer pears and winter 

pears in the U.S. No. 1 grade is: 

• Bartlett pears permit 15% of the surface to be affected with smooth solid 

or smooth net-like russeting. Anjou pears may have 1/3 of the surface 

affected. 

• Bartlett pears and other smooth skinned varieties may have no additional 

smooth russeting at the calyx end. Anjou pears and other smooth skinned 

winter varieties may have 1/2 inch of such russeting visible at the calyx 

end when the pear is placed calyx end down on a flat surface. 

U.S. No. 2

The requirements for summer and winter pears in the U.S. No. 2 grade are 

identical in all factors, except: 

Anjou pears limit smooth solid or smooth net-like russeting to 2/3 of the surface 

in U.S. No. 2. There are no restrictions on this type of russeting for other varieties, 

either summer or winter, in the U.S. No. 2 grade. 

Points to Remember When Inspecting U.S. and State 

Grades 

Winter Pears

In the U.S. Standards, Oregon State and Washington State Standards for Winter 

Pears, the U.S. Extra No. 1, Oregon Extra Fancy, and Washington Extra Fancy grades 

have the same requirements as to grade defects. This also applies to the U.S. No. 2, 

Oregon Fancy and Washington Fancy grades. 

Summer/Fall Pears

The Washington State Standards for Summer and Fall Pears differ substantially 

from the U.S. Standards in some respects. Before inspecting summer and fall pears 

from Washington, inspectors should review the Washington State Standards for their 

terminology and definitions. 
51

APPENDIX I - U.S. GRADE STANDARDS 

United States Standards for Grades of Summer and Fall Pears 1

Effective August 20, 1955 

General 

51.1260 General. 

Grades 

51.1261 U.S. No. 1. 

51.1262 U.S. Combination. 

51.1263 U.S. No. 2. 

Unclassified 

51.1264 Unclassified. 

Tolerances 

51.1265 Tolerances. 

Application of Tolerances 

51.1266 Application of tolerances. 

Basis for Calculating Percentages 

51.1267 Basis for calculating percentages. 

Condition After Storage or Transit 

51.1268 Condition after storage or transit. 

Standard Pack 

51.1269 Sizing. 

51.1270 Packing. 

51.1271 Tolerances for standard pack. 

Definitions 

51.1272 Mature. 

51.1273 Overripe. 

51.1274 Carefully hand-picked. 

51.1275 Clean. 

51.1276 Black end. 

51.1277 Fairly well formed. 

51.1278 Damage. 

51.1279 Seriously misshapen. 

51.1280 Serious damage. 

General 

§51.1260 General. 

These standards apply to varieties such as Bartlett, Hardy and other similar varieties. 

Grades 

§51.1261 U.S. No. 1. 

“U.S. No. 1” consists of pears of one variety which are mature, but not overripe, carefully hand-picked, 

clean, fairly well formed, free from decay, internal breakdown, scald, freezing injury, worm holes, black 

end, and from damage caused by hard end, bruises, broken skins, russeting, limb rubs, hail, scars, 

drought spot, sunburn, sprayburn, stings or other insect injury, disease, or mechanical or other means. 

(See §§51.1265 and 51.1268.) 

§51.1262 U.S. Combination. 

A combination of U.S. No. 1 and U.S. No. 2 may be packed. When such a combination is packed, at 

least 50 percent of the pears in any container shall meet the requirements of U.S. No. 1. (See §§51.1265 

and 51.1268.) 

 1

Packing of the product in conformity with the requirements of these standards shall not excuse 

failure to comply with the provisions of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. 
52

§51.1263 U.S. No. 2. 

“U.S. No. 2” consists of pears of one variety which are mature, but not overripe, carefully hand-picked, 

clean, not seriously misshapen, free from decay, internal breakdown, scald, freezing injury, worm holes, 

black end, and from damage caused by hard end, or broken skins. The pears shall also be free from 

serious damage caused by bruises, russeting, limbrubs, hail, scars, drought spot, sunburn, sprayburn, 

stings or other insect injury, disease, or mechanical or other means. (See §§51.1265 and 51.1268.) 

Unclassified 

§51.1264 Unclassified. 

“Unclassified” consists of pears which have not been classified in accordance with any of the foregoing 

grades. The term “unclassified’’ is not a grade within the meaning of these standards, but is provided as 

a designation to show that no grade has been applied to the lot. 

Tolerances 

§51.1265 Tolerances. 

(a) In order to allow for variations incident to proper grading and handling, not more than a total of 10 

percent of the pears in any lot may fail to meet the requirements of grade: Provided, That not more than 

5 percent shall be seriously damaged by insects, and not more than 1 percent shall be allowed for decay 

or internal breakdown. 

(b) When applying the foregoing tolerances to the combination grade no part of any tolerance shall be 

used to reduce the percentage of U.S. No. 1 pears required in the combination, but individual containers 

may have not more than 10 percent less than the percentage of U.S. No. 1 required: Provided, That the 

entire lot averages within the percentage specified. 

Application of Tolerances 

§51.1266 Application of tolerances. 

(a) The contents of individual packages in the lot, based on sample inspection, are subject to the 

following limitations, provided the averages for the entire lot are within the tolerances specified for the 

grade: 

(1) For packages which contain more than 10 pounds, and a tolerance of 10 percent or more is provided 

individual packages in any lot shall have not more than one and one-half times the tolerance specified. 

For packages which contain more than 10 pounds and a tolerance of less than 10 percent is provided, 

individual packages in any lot shall have not more than double the tolerance specified, except that at least 

one pear which is seriously damaged by insects or affected by decay or internal breakdown may be 

permitted in any package. 

(2) For packages which contain 10 pounds or less, individual packages in any lot are not restricted as to 

the percentage of defects or off-size: Provided, That not more than four times the tolerance specified 

may be permitted in any package for pears which are seriously damaged by insects or affected by decay 

or internal breakdown except that at least one defective pear may be permitted in any package. 

Basis for Calculating Percentages 

§51.1267 Basis for calculating percentages. 

(a) When the numerical count is marked on the container or when pears are packed in a container to 

weigh 5 pounds or less, percentages shall be calculated on the basis of count. 

(b) When the minimum diameter or minimum and maximum diameters are marked on a container packed 

to weigh more than 5 pounds or when the pears are jumbled in a container packed to weigh more than 5 

pounds, percentages shall be calculated on the basis of weight or an equivalent basis. 

Condition After Storage or Transit 

§51.1268 Condition after storage or transit. 

Decay, scald, or other deterioration which may have developed on pears after they have been in storage 

or transit shall be considered as affecting condition and not grade. 

Standard Pack 

§51.1269 Sizing. 

(a) The numerical count, or the minimum size of the pears packed in closed containers shall be indicated 

on the package. The number of pears in the box shall not vary more than 3 from the number indicated on 

the box. 

(b) When the numerical count is marked on western standard pear boxes the pears shall not vary more 

than three-eighths inch in their transverse diameter for counts 120 or less; one-fourth inch for counts 135 

to 180, inclusive; and three-sixteenths inch for counts 193 or more. 
53

(c) When the numerical count is marked on western standard half boxes or special half boxes packed 

three tiers deep, the pears shall not vary more than three-eighths inch for counts 75 or less; one-fourths 

inch for counts 80 to 110, inclusive; and three-sixteenths inch for counts 115 or more. 

(d) When the numerical count is marked on western standard half boxes or special half boxes packed two 

tiers deep, the pears shall not vary more than three-eighths inch for counts 50 or less; one-fourth inch for 

counts 55 to 70, inclusive; and three-sixteenths inch for counts 80 or more. 

(e) When the numerical count is not shown, the minimum size shall be plainly stamped, stenciled or 

otherwise marked on the container in terms of whole inches, whole and half inches, whole and quarter 

inches, or whole and eighth inches, as 2-1/2 inches minimum, 2-1/4 inches minimum, or 2-5/8 inches 

minimum, in accordance with the facts. It is suggested that both minimum and maximum sizes be 

marked on the container, as 2-1/4 to 2-3/4 inches, 2-1/2 to 2-3/4 inches, as such marking is especially 

desirable for pears marketed in the export trade. 

(f) “Size” means the greatest transverse diameter of the pear taken at right angles to a line running from 

the stem to the blossom end. 

§51.1270 Packing. 

(a) Each package shall be packed so that the pears in the shown face shall be reasonably representative 

in size and quality of the contents of the package. 

(b) Pears packed in any container shall be tightly packed. All packages shall be well filled but the 

contents shall not show excessive or unnecessary bruising because of overfilled packages. 

(c) Pears packed in boxes shall be arranged in containers according to the approved and recognized 

methods with the pears packed lengthwise. A bridge shall not be allowed in any standard pack. When 

wrapped, each pear shall be fairly well enclosed by its individual wrapper. 

(d) Pears packed in round stave bushel baskets, tubs or in barrels shall be ring faced. 

§51.1271 Tolerances for standard pack. 

(a) In order to allow for variations incident to proper sizing, not more than 5 percent of the pears in any lot 

may fail to meet the size requirements: Provided, That when the maximum and minimum sizes are both 

stated, an additional 10 percent tolerance shall be allowed for pears which are larger than the maximum 

size stated. 

(b) In order to allow for variations incident to proper packing, not more than 10 percent of the containers 

in any lot may fail to meet these requirements, but no part of this tolerance shall be allowed for bridge 

packs, or for packs with different sizes and arrangements such as layers of 195 size and arrangement, 

and layers of 180 size and arrangement packed in the same box. 

Definitions 

§51.1272 Mature.

(a) “Mature” means that the pear has reached the stage of maturity which will insure the proper 

completion of the ripening process. 

(b) Before a mature pear becomes overripe it will show varying degrees of firmness, depending upon the 

stage of the ripening process. Therefore, a statement of firmness should be given in order to indicate the 

stage of the ripening process. A description of the ground color should also be given. 

(1) The following terms should be used for describing the ground color: “Green,” “Light Green,” 

“Yellowish Green,” and “Yellow.” 

(2) The following terms should be used for describing the firmness of pears: 

(i) “Hard” means that the flesh of the pear is solid and does not yield appreciably even to considerable 

pressure. 

(ii) “Firm” means that the flesh of the pear is fairly solid but yields somewhat to moderate pressure. 

(iii) “Firm ripe” means that the flesh of the pear yields readily to moderate pressure. 

(iv) “Ripe” means that the pear is at the stage where it is in its most desirable condition for eating. 

§51.1273 Overripe. 

“Overripe” means dead ripe, very mealy or soft, past commercial utility. 

§51.1274 Carefully hand-picked. 

“Carefully hand-picked” means that the pears do not show evidence of rough handling or of having been 

on the ground. 

§51.1275 Clean.

“Clean” means free from excessive dirt, dust, spray residue or other foreign material. 
54

§51.1276 Black end. 

“Black end” is evidenced by an abnormally deep green color around the calyx, or black spots usually 

occurring on the one-third of the surface nearest to the calyx, or by an abnormally shallow calyx cavity. 

§51.1277 Fairly well formed. 

“Fairly well formed” means that the pear may be slightly abnormal in shape but not to an extent which 

detracts materially from the appearance of the fruit. 

§51.1278 Damage. 

“Damage” means any injury or defect which materially affects the appearance, or the edible or shipping 

quality. 

(a) Hard end shall be considered as damage if the pear shows a distinctly constricted protrusion at the 

blossom end, or an abnormally yellow color at the blossom end, or an abnormally smooth rounded base 

with little or no depression at the calyx, or if the flesh near the calyx is abnormally dry and tough or 

woody. 

(b) Slight handling bruises and package bruises such as are incident to good commercial handling in the 

preparation of a tight pack shall not be considered damage. 

(c) Any pear with one skin break larger than three-sixteenths inch in diameter or depth, or with more than 

one skin break one-eighth inch or larger in diameter or depth shall be considered damaged, and scored 

against the grade tolerance.2

(1) Small inconspicuous skin breaks, less than one-eighth inch in diameter or depth, shall not be 

considered damage. In addition, not more than 15 percent of the pears in any container may have not 

more than one skin break from one-eighth inch to three-sixteenths inch, inclusive, in diameter or depth.2

(d) Russeting which exceeds the following shall be considered as damage: 

(1) On all varieties excessively rough russeting (russeting which shows “frogging’’ or slight cracking) when 

the aggregate area exceeds one-half inch in diameter.2

(2) On Bartlett and other smooth-skinned varieties, slightly rough russeting, or thick russeting such as is 

characteristic of frost injury, when the aggregate area exceeds three-fourths inch in diameter.2

(3) On Bartlett and other smooth-skinned varieties, smooth solid or smooth netlike russeting when the 

aggregate area exceeds 15 percent of the surface. 

(4) On Hardy, Sand and other similar varieties, rough or thick russeting such as is characteristic of frost 

injury, when the aggregate area exceeds three-fourths inch in diameter. On any of these varieties any 

amount of characteristic russeting is permitted whether due to natural causes such as weather or 

stimulated by artificial means; leaf whips or light limbrubs which resemble and blend into russeted areas 

shall be considered as russet.2

(e) Any one of the following defects or any combination thereof, the seriousness of which exceeds the 

maximum allowed for any one defect, shall be considered as damage: 

(1) Any limbrubs which are cracked, softened, or more than slightly depressed. 

(2) Black discoloration caused by limbrubs, which exceeds an aggregate area of three-eighths inch in 

diameter.2

(3) Dark brown discoloration or excessive roughness caused by limbrubs which exceeds an aggregate 

area of one-half inch in diameter.2

(4) Slightly rough, light colored discoloration caused by limbrubs which exceeds an aggregate area of 

three-fourths inch in diameter.2

(5) Smooth, light colored discoloration caused by limbrubs which exceeds an aggregate area of 1 inch in 

diameter.2

(6) Hail marks or other similar depressions or scars which are not shallow or superficial, or where the 

injury affects an aggregate area of more than three-eighths inch in diameter.2

(7) Drought spot when more than one in number, or when the external injury exceeds an aggregate area 

of three-eighths inch in diameter, or when the appearance of the flesh is materially affected by corky 

tissue or brownish discoloration.2

(8) Sunburn or sprayburn where the skin is blistered, cracked, or shows any light tan or brownish color, or 

the shape of the pear is appreciably flattened, or the flesh is appreciably softened or changed in color, 

except that sprayburn of a russet character shall be considered under the definition of russeting. 

 2

 The area refers to that of a circle of the specified diameter. 
55

(9) Insects: 

(i) More than two healed codling moth stings, or any insect sting which is over three thirty-seconds of an 

inch in diameter, or other insect stings affecting the appearance to an equal extent.2

(ii) Blister mite or canker worm injury which is not shallow or superficial, or where the injury affects an 

aggregate area of more than three-eighths inch in diameter.2

(10) Disease: 

(i) Scab spots which are black and which cover an aggregate area of more than one-fourth inch in 

diameter except that scab spots of a russet character shall be considered under the definition of 

russeting. 

(ii) Sooty blotch which is thinly scattered over more than 5 percent of the surface, or dark, heavily 

concentrated spots which affect an area of more than three-eighths inch in diameter.2

§51.1279 Seriously misshapen. 

“Seriously misshapen” means that the pear is excessively flattened or elongated for the variety, or is 

constricted or deformed so it will not cut three fairly uniform good quarters, or is so badly misshapen that 

the appearance is seriously affected. 

§51.1280 Serious damage. 

“Serious damage” means any injury or defect which seriously affects the appearance, or the edible or 

shipping quality. 

(a) Russeting which in the aggregate exceeds the following shall be considered as serious damage: 

(1) On all varieties, excessively rough russeting (russeting which shows “frogging’’ or slight cracking) 

when the aggregate area exceeds three-fourths inch in diameter.2

(2) On all varieties, thick russeting such as is characteristic of frost injury, 15 percent of the surface. 

(b) Any one of the following defects or combination thereof, the seriousness of which exceeds the 

maximum allowed for any one defect, shall be considered as serious damage: 

(1) Limbrubs which are more than slightly cracked, or excessively rough limbrubs or dark brown or black 

discoloration caused by limbrubs which exceeds an aggregate area of three-fourths inch in diameter. 

Other limbrubs which affect an aggregate area of more than one-tenth of the surface.2

(2) Hail marks or other similar depressions or scars which affect an aggregate area of more than 

three-fourths inch in diameter, or which materially deform or disfigure the fruit.2

(3) Drought spot when more than two in number, or where the external injury affects an aggregate area of 

more than three-fourths inch in diameter, or when the appearance of the flesh is seriously affected by 

corky tissue or brownish discoloration.2

(4) Sunburn or sprayburn where the skin is blistered, cracked or shows any brownish color, or where the 

shape of the pear is materially flattened, or the flesh is softened or materially changed in color, except 

that sprayburn of a russet character shall be considered under the definition of russeting. 

(5) Insects: 

(i) Worm holes. More than three healed codling moth stings, of which not more than two may be over 

three thirty-seconds of an inch in diameter, or other insect stings affecting the appearance to an equal 

extent.2

(ii) Blister mite or canker worm injury which affects an aggregate area of more than three-fourths inch in 

diameter or which materially deforms or disfigures the fruit.2

(6) Disease: 

(i) Scab spots which are black and which cover an aggregate area of more than one-half inch in diameter, 

except that scab spots of a russet character shall be considered under the definition of russeting.2

(ii) Sooty blotch which is thinly scattered over more than 15 percent of the surface, or dark, heavily 

concentrated spots which affect an area of more than three-fourths inch in diameter.2

 2

 The area refers to that of a circle of the specified diameter. 
56

United States Standards for Grades of Winter Pears 1

Effective September 10, 1955 

General 

51.1300 General. 

Grades 

51.1301 U.S. Extra No. 1. 

51.1302 U.S. No. 1. 

51.1303 U.S. Combination. 

51.1304 U.S. No. 2. 

Unclassified 

51.1305 Unclassified. 

Tolerances 

51.1306 Tolerances. 

Application of Tolerances 

51.1307 Application of tolerances. 

Basis for Calculating Percentages 

51.1308 Basis for calculating percentages. 

Condition After Storage or Transit 

51.1309 Condition after storage or transit. 

Standard Pack 

51.1310 Sizing. 

51.1311 Packing. 

51.1312 Tolerances for standard pack. 

Definitions 

51.1313 Mature. 

51.1314 Overripe. 

51.1315 Carefully hand-picked. 

51.1316 Clean. 

51.1317 Well formed. 

51.1318 Black end. 

51.1319 Injury. 

51.1320 Fairly well formed. 

51.1321 Damage. 

51.1322 Seriously misshapen. 

51.1323 Serious damage. 

General 

§51.1300 General. 

These standards apply to varieties such as Anjou, Bosc, Winter Nelis, Comice, Flemish Beauty and other 

similar varieties. 

Grades 

§51.1301 U.S. Extra No. 1. 

“U.S. Extra No. 1” consists of pears of one variety which are mature, but not overripe, carefully 

hand-picked, clean, well formed, free from decay, internal breakdown, scald, freezing injury, worm holes, 

black end, hard end, drought spot, and free from injury caused by russeting, limbrubs, hail, scars, cork 

spot, sunburn, sprayburn, stings or other insect injury, or mechanical or other means, except that they 

shall be free from damage caused by bruises, broken skins, or disease. (See §§51.1306 and 51.1309.) 

§51.1302 U.S. No. 1. 

“U.S. No. 1” consists of pears of one variety which are mature, but not over-ripe, carefully hand-picked, 

clean, fairly well formed, free from decay, internal breakdown, scald, freezing injury, worm holes, black 

end, and from damage caused by hard end, bruises, broken skins, russeting, limbrubs, hail, scars, cork 

 1

 Packing of the product in conformity with the requirements of these standards shall not excuse 

failure to comply with the provisions of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. 
57

spot, drought spot, sunburn, sprayburn, stings or other insect injury, disease, or mechanical or other 

means. (See §§51.1306 and 51.1309.) 

§51.1303 U.S. Combination. 

A combination of U.S. No. 1 and U.S. No. 2 may be packed. When such a combination is packed, at 

least 50 percent of the pears in any container shall meet the requirements of U.S. No. 1. (See §§51.1306 

and 51.1309.) 

§51.1304 U.S. No. 2. 

“U.S. No. 2” consists of pears of one variety which are mature, but not overripe, carefully hand-picked, 

clean, not seriously misshapen, free from decay, internal breakdown, scald, freezing injury, worm holes, 

black end, and from damage caused by hard end, or broken skins. The pears shall also be free from 

serious damage caused by bruises, russeting, limbrubs, hail, scars, cork spot, drought spot, sunburn, 

sprayburn, stings or other insect injury, disease, or mechanical or other means. (See §§51.1306 and 

51.1309.) 

Unclassified 

§51.1305 Unclassified. 

“Unclassified” consists of pears which have not been classified in accordance with any of the foregoing 

grades. The term “unclassified’’ is not a grade within the meaning of these standards, but is provided as 

a designation to show that no grade has been applied to the lot. 

Tolerances 

§51.1306 Tolerances. 

(a) In order to allow for variations incident to proper grading and handling, not more than a total of 10 

percent of the pears in any lot may fail to meet the requirements of grade: Provided, That not more than 

5 percent shall be seriously damaged by insects, and not more than 1 percent shall be allowed for decay 

or internal breakdown. 

(b) When applying the foregoing tolerances to the combination grade no part of any tolerance shall be 

used to reduce the percentage of U.S. No. 1 pears required in the combination, but individual containers 

may have not more than 10 percent less than the percentage of U.S. No. 1 required: Provided, That the 

entire lot averages within the percentage specified. 

Application of Tolerances 

§51.1307 Application of tolerances. 

(a) The contents of individual packages in the lot, based on sample inspection, are subject to the 

following limitations, provided the averages for the entire lot are within the tolerances specified for the 

grade: 

(1) For packages which contain more than 10 pounds, and a tolerance of 10 percent or more is provided, 

individual packages in any lot shall have not more than one and one-half times the tolerance specified. 

For packages which contain more than 10 pounds and a tolerance of less than 10 percent is provided, 

individual packages in any lot shall have not more than double the tolerance specified, except that at least 

one pear which is seriously damaged by insects or affected by decay or internal breakdown may be 

permitted in any package. 

(2) For packages which contain 10 pounds or less, individual packages in any lot are not restricted as to 

the percentage of defects or off-size: Provided, That not more than four times the tolerance specified 

may be permitted in any package for pears which are seriously damaged by insects or affected by decay 

or internal breakdown except that at least one defective pear may be permitted in any package. 

Basis for Calculating Percentages 

§51.1308 Basis for calculating percentages. 

(a) When the numerical count is marked in the container or when pears are packed in a container to 

weigh 5 pounds or less, percentages shall be calculated on the basis of count. 

(b) When the minimum diameter or minimum and maximum diameters are marked on a container packed 

to weigh more than 5 pounds or when the pears are jumbled in a container packed to weigh more than 5 

pounds, percentages shall be calculated on the basis of weight or an equivalent basis. 

Condition After Storage or Transit 

§51.1309 Condition after storage or transit. 

Decay, scald or other deterioration which may have developed on pears after they have been in storage 

or transit shall be considered as affecting condition and not the grade. 
58

Standard Pack 

§51.1310 Sizing. 

(a) The numerical count, or the minimum size of the pears packed in closed containers shall be indicated 

on the package. The number of pears in the box shall not vary more than 3 from the number indicated on 

the box. 

(b) When the numerical count is marked on western standard pear boxes the pears shall not vary more 

than three-eighths inch in their transverse diameter for counts 120 or less; one-fourth inch for counts 135 

to 180, inclusive; and three-sixteenths inch for counts 193 or more. 

(c) When the numerical count is marked on western standard half boxes or special half boxes packed 

three tiers deep, the pears shall not vary more than three-eighths inch for counts 75 or less; one-fourth 

inch for counts 80 to 110, inclusive; and three-sixteenths inch for counts 115 or more. 

(d) When the numerical count is marked on western standard half boxes or special half boxes packed two 

tiers deep, the pears shall not vary more than three-eighths inch for counts 50 or less; one-fourth inch for 

counts 55 to 70, inclusive; and three-sixteenths inch for counts 80 or more. 

(e) When the numerical count is not shown, the minimum size shall be plainly stamped, stenciled or 

otherwise marked on the container in terms of whole inches, whole and half inches, whole and quarter 

inches, or whole and eighth inches, as 2-1/2 inches minimum, 2-1/4 inches minimum, or 2-5/8 inches 

minimum, in accordance with the facts. It is suggested that both minimum and maximum sizes be 

marked on the container, as 2-1/4 to 2-3/4 inches, 2-1/2 to 2-3/4 inches, as such marking is especially 

desirable for pears marketed in the export trade. 

(f) “Size” means the greatest transverse diameter of the pear taken at right angles to a line running from 

the stem to the blossom end. 

§51.1311 Packing. 

(a) Each package shall be packed so that the pears in the shown face shall be reasonably representative 

in size and quality of the contents of the package. 

(b) Pears packed in any container shall be tightly packed. All packages shall be well filled but the 

contents shall not show excessive or unnecessary bruising because of overfilled packages. 

(c) Pears packed in boxes shall be arranged in containers according to the approved and recognized 

methods with the pears packed lengthwise. A bridge shall not be allowed in any standard pack. When 

wrapped, each pear shall be fairly well enclosed by its individual wrapper. 

(d) Pears packed in round stave bushel baskets, tubs, or in barrels shall be ring faced. 

§51.1312 Tolerances for standard pack. 

(a) In order to allow for variations incident to proper sizing, not more than 5 percent of the pears in any lot 

may fail to meet the size requirements: Provided, That when the maximum and minimum sizes are both 

stated, an additional 10 percent tolerance shall be allowed for pears which are larger than the maximum 

size stated. 

(b) In order to allow for variations incident to proper packing, not more than 10 percent of the containers 

in any lot may fail to meet these requirements but no part of this tolerance shall be allowed for bridge 

packs, or for packs with different sizes and arrangements such as layers of 195 size and arrangement, 

and layers of 180 size and arrangement packed in the same box. 

Definitions 

§51.1313 Mature. 

(a) “Mature” means that the pear has reached the stage of maturity which will insure the proper 

completion of the ripening process. 

(b) Before a mature pear becomes overripe it will show varying degrees of firmness depending upon the 

stage of the ripening process. Therefore, a statement of firmness should be given in order to indicate the 

stage of the ripening process. A description of the ground color should also be given. 

(1) The following terms should be used for describing the ground color: “Green,” “Light Green,” “Yellowish 

Green,” and “Yellow.” 

(2) The following terms should be used for describing the firmness of pears: 

(i) “Hard” means that the flesh of the pear is solid and does not yield appreciably even to considerable 

pressure. 

(ii) “Firm” means that the flesh of the pear is fairly solid but yields somewhat to moderate pressure. 

(ii) “Firm ripe” means that the flesh of the pear yields readily to moderate pressure. 

(iv) “Ripe” means that the pear is at the stage where it is in its most desirable condition for eating. 
59

§51.1314 Overripe. 

“Overripe” means dead ripe, very mealy or soft, past commercial utility. 

§51.1315 Carefully hand-picked. 

“Carefully hand-picked” means that the pears do not show evidence of rough handling or of having been 

on the ground. 

§51.1316 Clean. 

“Clean” means free from excessive dirt, dust, spray residue or other foreign material. 

§51.1317 Well formed. 

“Well formed” means having the shape characteristic of the variety. Slight irregularities of shape from 

type which do not appreciably detract from the general appearance of the fruit shall be considered well 

formed. 

§51.1318 Black end. 

“Black end” is evidenced by an abnormally deep green color around the calyx, or black spots usually 

occurring on the one-third of the surface nearest to the calyx, or by an abnormally shallow calyx cavity. 

§51.1319 Injury. 

“Injury” means any blemish or defect, that more than slightly affects the appearance, or the edible or 

shipping quality. The following shall be considered as injury: 

(a) Russeting which exceeds the following shall be considered as injury: 

(1) On all varieties any excessively rough russeting (russeting which shows “frogging’’ or slight cracking). 

(2) On Comice, and on Anjou and other smooth-skinned varieties, slightly rough russeting, or thick 

russeting, such as is characteristic of frost injury, when the aggregate area exceeds one-half inch in 

diameter.1

(3) On Anjou and other smooth-skinned varieties, smooth solid russeting when the aggregate area 

exceeds one-half inch in diameter and smooth net-like russeting when the aggregate area exceeds 15 

percent of the surface, and on Comice, smooth solid or smooth netlike russeting when the aggregate area 

exceeds one-third of the surface, except that, in addition, on these and similar varieties, any amount of 

characteristic smooth russeting shall be permitted on that portion of the calyx end not visible for more 

than one-half inch along the contour of the pear, when it is placed calyx end down on a flat surface.2

 

(4) On any of the following and other similar varieties, rough or thick russeting such as is characteristic of 

frost injury when the aggregate area exceeds one-half inch in diameter.2

 On any of these varieties any 

amount of characteristic russeting is permitted whether due to natural causes such as weather or 

stimulated by artificial means; leaf whips or light limbrubs which resemble and blend into russeted areas 

shall be considered as russet: 

Bosc. Pound. 

Clairgeau. Seckel. 

Easter Beurre. Sheldon. 

Flemish Beauty. Winter Nelis, 

Kieffer. and other 

P. Barry. similar varieties. 

(b) Any one of the following defects or any combination thereof, the seriousness of which exceeds the 

maximum allowed for any one defect, shall be considered as injury: 

(1) Limbrubs which are cracked, softened, more than very slightly depressed, not light in color, or 

exceeding an aggregate area of three-fourths inch in diameter.2

(2) Hail marks or other similar depressions or scars which are not very shallow or superficial, or which 

affect an aggregate area of more than one-fourth inch in diameter.2

(3) Cork spot when a pear shows depressions or the flesh of the pear is more than slightly affected. 

(4) Sunburn or sprayburn if the normal color of the fruit has been materially changed, or if the skin is 

blistered or cracked, or the flesh softened or discolored. 

(5) More than two healed slight stings or depressions, or any stings which materially affect the general 

appearance of the fruit. 

(6) Blister mite or canker worm injury which is not very shallow and superficial or where the injury affects 

an aggregate area of more than one-fourth inch.2

 2

 The area refers to that of a circle of the specified diameter. 
60

§51.1320 Fairly well formed. 

“Fairly well formed” means that the pear may be slightly abnormal in shape but not to an extent which 

detracts materially from the appearance of the fruit. Winter Nelis pears with characteristic slight sutures 

or with slight flattening on one side and/or other slight irregularities which do not materially detract from 

the general appearance of the pear shall be considered fairly well formed. 

§51.1321 Damage. 

“Damage” means any injury or defect which materially affects the appearance, or the edible or shipping 

quality. 

(a) Hard end shall be considered as damage if the pear shows an abnormally yellow color at the blossom 

end, or an abnormally smooth rounded base with little or no depression at the calyx, or if the flesh near 

the calyx is abnormally dry and tough or woody. 

(b) Slight handling bruises and package bruises such as are incident to good commercial handling in the 

preparation of a tight pack shall not be considered damage. 

(c) Any pear with one skin break larger than three-sixteenths inch in diameter of depth, or with more than 

one skin break one-eighth inch or larger in diameter or depth, shall be considered damaged, and scored 

against the grade tolerance.2

(1) Small inconspicuous skin breaks, less than one-eighth inch in diameter or depth, shall not be 

considered damage. In addition, not more than 15 percent of the pears in any container may have not 

more than one skin break from one-eighth inch to three-sixteenths inch, inclusive, in diameter or depth.2

(d) Russeting which exceeds the following shall be considered as damage: 

(1) On all varieties excessively rough russeting (russeting which shows “frogging’’ or slight cracking) when 

the aggregate area exceeds one-half inch in diameter.2

(2) On Anjou and other smooth-skinned varieties, slightly rough russeting, or thick russeting such as is 

characteristic of frost injury, when the aggregate area exceeds three-fourths inch in diameter.2

(3) On Anjou, smooth solid or smooth netlike russeting when the aggregate area exceeds one-third of the 

surface, and on other smooth-skinned varieties, 15 percent of the surface, except that, in addition, on 

Anjou and other smooth-skinned varieties, any amount of characteristic smooth russeting shall be 

permitted on that portion of the calyx end not visible for more than one-half inch along the contour of the 

pear, when it is placed calyx end down on a flat surface. 

(4) On any of the following and other similar varieties, rough or thick russeting such as is characteristic of 

frost injury, when the aggregate area exceeds three-fourths inch in diameter.2 On any of these varieties 

any amount of characteristic russeting is permitted whether due to natural causes such as weather or 

stimulated by artificial means; leaf whips or light limbrubs which resemble and blend into russeted areas 

shall be considered as russet: 

Bosc. Pound. 

Clairgeau. Seckel. 

Comice. Sheldon. 

Easter Beurre. Winter Nelis, 

Flemish Beauty. and other 

Kieffer. similar varieties. 

P. Barry. 

(e) Any one of the following defects or any combination thereof, the seriousness of which exceeds the 

maximum allowed for any one defect, shall be considered as damage: 

(1) Any limbrubs which are cracked, softened, or more than slightly depressed. 

(2) Black discoloration caused by limbrubs which exceeds an aggregate area of three-eighths inch in 

diameter.2

(3) Dark brown discoloration or excessive roughness caused by limbrubs which exceeds an aggregate 

area of one-half inch in diameter.2

(4) Slightly rough, light colored discoloration caused by limbrubs which exceeds an aggregate area of 

three-fourths inch in diameter.2 

(5) Smooth, light colored discoloration caused by limbrubs which exceeds an aggregate area of 1 inch in 

diameter.2 

(6) Hail marks or other similar depressions or scars which are not shallow or superficial, or where the 

injury affects an aggregate area of more than three-eighths inch in diameter.2

 2 The area refers to that of a circle of the specified diameter. 
61

(7) Cork spot when more than one in number is visible externally or when the flesh is materially affected. 

(8) Drought spot when more than one in number, or when the external injury exceeds an aggregate area 

of three-eighths inch in diameter, or when the appearance of the flesh is materially affected by corky 

tissue or brownish discoloration.2 

(9) Sunburn or sprayburn where the skin is blistered, cracked, or shows any light tan or brownish color, or 

the shape of the pear is appreciably flattened, or the flesh is appreciably softened or changed in color, 

except that sprayburn of a russet character shall be considered under the definition of russeting. 

(10) Insects: 

(i) More than two healed codling moth stings, or any insect sting which is over three thirty-seconds of an 

inch in diameter, or other insect stings affecting the appearance to an equal extent.2

(ii) Blister mite or canker worm injury which is not shallow or superficial, or where the injury affects an 

aggregate area of more than three-eighths inch in diameter.2

(11) Disease: 

(i) Scab spots which are black and which cover an aggregate area of more than one-fourth inch in 

diameter, except that scab spots of a russet character shall be considered under the definition of 

russeting.2

(ii) Sooty blotch which is thinly scattered over more than 5 percent of the surface, or dark, heavily 

concentrated spots which affect an area of more than three-eighths inch in diameter.2

§51.1322 Seriously misshapen. 

“Seriously misshapen” means that the pear is excessively flattened or elongated for the variety, or is 

constricted or deformed so it will not cut three fairly uniform good quarters, or is so badly misshapen that 

the appearance is seriously affected. 

§51.1323 Serious damage. 

“Serious damage” means any injury or defect which seriously affects the appearance, or the edible or 

shipping quality. 

(a) Russeting which in the aggregate exceeds the following shall be considered as serious damage: 

(1) On all varieties, excessively rough russeting (russeting which shows “frogging’’ or slight cracking) 

when the aggregate area exceeds three-fourths inch in diameter.2

(2) On all varieties, thick russeting such as is characteristic of frost injury, 15 percent of the surface. 

(3) On Anjou, smooth solid or smooth netlike russeting when the aggregate area exceeds two-thirds of 

the surface, except that, in addition, any amount of characteristic smooth russeting shall be permitted on 

that portion of the calyx end not visible for more than one-half inch along the contour of the pear, when it 

is placed calyx end down on a flat surface. On Flemish Beauty smooth russeting shall be permitted on 

the entire surface. 

(b) Any one of the following defects or combination thereof, the seriousness of which exceeds the 

maximum allowed for any one defect, shall be considered as serious damage: 

(1) Limbrubs which are more than slightly cracked, or excessively rough limbrubs or dark brown or black 

discoloration caused by limbrubs which exceeds an aggregate area of three-fourths inch in diameter.2

(2) Other limbrubs which affect an aggregate area of more than one-tenth of the surface. 

(3) Hail marks or other similar depressions or scars which affect an aggregate area of more than 

three-fourths inch in diameter, or which materially deform or disfigure the fruit.2

(4) Cork spot when more than two in number are visible externally or when the flesh is seriously affected. 

(5) Drought spot when more than two in number, or where the external injury affects an aggregate area of 

more than three-fourths inch in diameter, or when the appearance of the flesh is seriously affected by 

corky tissue or brownish discoloration.2

(6) Sunburn or sprayburn where the skin is blistered, cracked or shows any brownish color, or where the 

shape of the pear is materially flattened, or the flesh is softened or materially changed in color, except 

that sprayburn of a russet character shall be considered under the definition of russeting. 

(7) Insects: 

(i) Worm holes. More than three healed codling moth stings, of which not more than two may be over 

three thirty-seconds of an inch in diameter, or other insect stings affecting the appearance to an equal 

extent.2 

(ii) Blister mite or canker worm injury which affects an aggregate area of more than three-fourths inch in 

diameter or which materially deforms or disfigures the fruit.2

(8) Disease: 
62

(i) Scab spots which are black, and which cover an aggregate area of more than one-half inch in 

diameter, except that scab spots of a russet character shall be considered under the definition of 

russeting.2

(ii) Sooty blotch which is thinly scattered over more than 15 percent of the surface, or dark heavily 

concentrated spots which affect an area of more than three-fourths inch in diameter.2

 2

 The area refers to that of a circle of the specified diameter.