U Marketing and

Regulatory

Programs

Agricultural

Marketing

Service

Specialty

Crops

Program

Specialty 

Crops 

Inspection

Division

Fresh-Cut Produce

Shipping Point and Market Inspection 

Instructions

September 2016
Non-Discrimination Policy: In accordance with Federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights 

regulations and policies, the USDA, its Agencies, offices, and employees, and institutions participating in or administering USDA 

programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity (including gender 

expression), sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status, family/parental status, income derived from a public assistance 

program, political beliefs, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity, in any program or activity conducted or funded by 

USDA (not all bases apply to all programs). Remedies and complaint filing deadlines vary by program or incident. 

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

audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.) should contact the responsible Agency or USDA’s TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 

(voice and TTY) or contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339. Additionally, program information may be 

made available in languages other than English. 

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

http://www.ascr.usda.gov/complaint_filing_cust.html and at any USDA office or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the 

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

completed form or letter to USDA by: (1) mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, 

1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410; (2) fax: (202) 690-7442; or (3) email: program.intake@usda.gov. 

USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.
These instructions contain information and guidelines to help personnel of the 

U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Specialty Crops Inspection (SCI) Division 

uniformly apply and interpret U.S. grade standards, other similar specifications, and 

special procedures.

These guidelines do not supersede the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act or any 

other applicable Federal or State laws or regulations. Compliance with these statutes is 

mandatory. This publication supersedes any previously issued inspection instructions.

The citation of any data, criteria, techniques, illustrations, copyrighted material, or 

pictorial representations accredited to private authorship is used with the permission of 

the individual(s) or source(s) cited. Unless a specific reference is cited, the information 

in this manual has been derived from sources available to the public or from the 

technical knowledge of USDA personnel.

Except for official USDA inspection aids or devices and color guides (or standards) 

produced under license of the Department of Agriculture, the mention of any supplier, 

patented device, product, brand name, or equipment does not imply endorsement by 

USDA over any other similar or equally effective material.

Inspection instructions are issued by USDA after careful consideration of all data and 

views submitted. The Department welcomes suggestions for improving the inspection 

instructions in future revisions.

Comments may be submitted to:

Director, Specialty Crops Inspection Division

Specialty Crops Program

USDA, Agricultural Marketing Service

1400 Independence Avenue, SW, STOP 0240

Washington, DC 20250

These instructions replace the Fresh-Cut Produce Shipping Point and Market Inspection 

Instructions dated November 1993, and include, but not limited to, all previous 

correspondence, memos, inspection instructions, or procedures.
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SHIPPING POINT AND MARKET INSPECTION INSTRUCTIONS FOR

FRESH-CUT PRODUCE

SECTION PAGE NO.

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

INSPECTION METHODS ....................................................................................................... 1

REPRESENTATIVE SAMPLING.............................................................................................. 2

SIZE OF PACKAGE.............................................................................................................. 2

BASIS OF INSPECTION ........................................................................................................ 3

SIZE OF SAMPLE................................................................................................................ 3

NUMBER OF SAMPLES........................................................................................................ 3

CONSUMER SIZE PACKAGES ......................................................................................... 4

BULK PACKAGES .......................................................................................................... 4

DETERMINING AND REPORTING DEFECTS ............................................................................ 4

WEIGHT BASED SAMPLES ............................................................................................. 4

COUNT BASED SAMPLES............................................................................................... 6

REPORTING SIZE OF SAMPLES............................................................................................ 6

EXCESSIVE DEFECTS ......................................................................................................... 7

TOLERANCES AND APPLICATION OF TOLERANCES ............................................................... 7

TOLERANCES .................................................................................................................... 7

APPLICATION OF TOLERANCES............................................................................................ 7

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

PRODUCT/COMMODITY ...................................................................................................... 8

STYLE OF CUT ............................................................................................................. 9

NUMBER/TYPE OF CONTAINERS.......................................................................................... 9

BRANDS/MARKINGS ......................................................................................................... 10

PACKAGE CODES............................................................................................................. 10

INGREDIENT LABEL .......................................................................................................... 10

ORIGIN ........................................................................................................................... 11

CONDITION OF PACK........................................................................................................ 11

SEALED BAGS ................................................................................................................. 11

MASTER CONTAINERS...................................................................................................... 12

DEFECTIVE PACKAGING.................................................................................................... 12

PRODUCT IN THE SEAL ..................................................................................................... 12

RIPS, TEARS, HOLES, OR BROKEN PACKAGES ................................................................... 13

BLOATED BAGS ............................................................................................................... 13

NET WEIGHT ................................................................................................................... 13

TEMPERATURE OF PRODUCT ............................................................................................ 14
iv

SIZE ............................................................................................................................... 14

SAMPLE SIZE FOR DETERMINING SIZE ............................................................................... 15

DEFECTS (QUALITY AND CONDITION) ................................................................................ 16

BRUISING OR BROKEN PIECES (Q OR C)............................................................................ 16

CHEMICAL CONTAMINANTS ............................................................................................... 17

CORE PIECES, END PIECES, ROOTS AND PEELS (Q) .......................................................... 17

DISCOLORATION (C) ........................................................................................................ 17

WHITE BLUSH ON CARROT ROOTS............................................................................... 18

EXCESSIVE DRYING (C) ................................................................................................... 18

EXCESSIVE WATER IN PACKAGES ..................................................................................... 19

FOREIGN MATERIAL, AND DIRT, SAND OR SOIL (Q)............................................................. 20

LARGE PIECES (Q) .......................................................................................................... 20

MECHANICAL DAMAGE (Q OR C)....................................................................................... 21

MOLD (C)........................................................................................................................ 21

MUSHINESS (C)............................................................................................................... 21

OFF-COLOR .................................................................................................................... 21

OFF-ODORS.................................................................................................................... 22

SHRIVELING (C)............................................................................................................... 23

SLIMINESS (C)................................................................................................................. 23

STRINGINESS OR RIBBINESS (Q)....................................................................................... 23

WILTED OR FLABBINESS (C) ............................................................................................. 23

DECAY OR SOFT ROT (C)................................................................................................. 23

APPENDIX I – GLOSSARY OF TERMS FOR FRESH-CUT STYLES............................................. 25

APPENDIX II – CHART FOR STYLE OF CUT ......................................................................... 28

APPENDIX III – INSPECTION EXAMPLES ............................................................................. 29

EXAMPLE 1: FV-300 NOTESHEET (FRONT) ....................................................................... 29

EXAMPLE 1: FV-300 NOTESHEET (BACK) ......................................................................... 30

EXAMPLE 1: FV-300 CERTIFICATE ................................................................................... 31

EXAMPLE 2: FV-300 NOTESHEET (FRONT) ....................................................................... 32

EXAMPLE 2: FV-300 NOTESHEET (BACK) ......................................................................... 33

EXAMPLE 2: FV-300 CERTIFICATE ................................................................................... 34

EXAMPLE 3: FV-300 NOTESHEET (FRONT) ....................................................................... 35

EXAMPLE 3: FV-300 NOTESHEET (BACK) ......................................................................... 36

EXAMPLE 3: FV-300 CERTIFICATE ................................................................................... 37

EXAMPLE 4: FV-300 FEIRS CERTIFICATE ........................................................................ 38

EXAMPLE 5: FV-300 FEIRS CERTIFICATE ........................................................................ 39
Shipping Point and Market Inspection Instructions for Fresh-Cut Produce

(September 2016)

1

GENERAL

Fresh-cut products are often referred to as “ready to use,” “pre-cut,” and “value added”

products. These products are fresh fruits and/or vegetables that have been altered from 

their whole state after harvested from the field. Whole products, intended for fresh-cut, 

are washed and usually trimmed of any external leaves, roots, or peel. These products 

are then cut and/or cored into specified styles and sizes, either by hand or using 

mechanical equipment, and packaged. In some procedures the product is rinsed in a 

cold water bath (the water may be treated with chlorine used as a disinfectant) and 

dried, prior to packaging. Examples are carrot and celery sticks, salad mixes, and 

cubed pineapples and melons. 

Fresh-cut products have not been cooked, canned, frozen or dried for long term 

preservation. Fruits and vegetables that have been packed in a juice or syrup are not 

considered fresh-cut. Fresh-cut products are fruits and vegetables which have been 

prepared for immediate use by the food service industry, retailer or consumer. Little or 

no additional preparation is needed. Fresh-cut products generally have a shelf-life of 6 

to 21 days. The shelf-life depends primarily on the temperatures during storage and 

transit, the type of packaging, and the product itself.

INSPECTION METHODS

Generally, fresh-cut products have no established U.S. grades. Fresh-cut produce can 

be inspected for quality and condition. Report “No Established U.S. Grade” in the 

“Grade” section of the certificate when inspecting fresh-cut commodities which have no 

established U.S. grade for quality and condition.

Broccoli florets are a fresh-cut product which is covered by a U.S. grade standard. 

When solely packaged as broccoli florets refer to the Broccoli Inspection Instructions. 

When broccoli florets are packaged in a mix with other fresh-cut commodities (such as 

cauliflower, carrots, etc.), inspect the mix as a No Established U.S. Grade using the 

guidance in these inspection instructions.

Inspecting fresh-cut product is uniquely different from whole product commodity 

inspections. It would be very time consuming and labor intensive to actually handle 

each piece of fresh-cut product in a sample. However, it is the duty of the Inspection 

Service to give as accurate a report of the load or lot as possible. Remove samples 

from their containers and spread them out on a clean, light or white colored tray or 

table. Adequate light is essential to accurately describe the colors and other factors of 

quality and condition of both normal and defective pieces.

Each product will have defects unique to it. For example, core pieces may not be 

objectionable in a package of shredded green cabbage because they are undetectable 

(being white to light green); but the same core pieces may be objectionable in a 
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package of shredded red cabbage because they are detectable (being white to light 

green). Pick out and set aside obvious defects. Keep separate piles for each different 

defect. Judge defects on the basis of “materially affecting the appearance” of the 

sample.

When inspecting “mixes” keep separate categories (and corresponding columns on the 

notesheet) for each type of defect. Also, make a notation on the notesheet, and a 

statement on the certificate as to what specific part of the mix is affected by particular 

defects. For example, in a coleslaw mix of green cabbage, red cabbage, and carrots 

the defects could be reported as follows: Yellow to tan discoloration of edges affecting 

green cabbage only; black discoloration affecting mostly carrot, some red cabbage; 

decay affecting carrot only. Likewise in a floret mix of broccoli and cauliflower the 

defects could be reported as: Yellow discoloration affecting broccoli; decay generally 

affecting broccoli, few cauliflower.

Some defects may not be “measurable” in terms of the number of affected pieces. 

These include odors and excessive free liquid in containers. Report these types of 

“defects” on the notesheet and certificate in general terms. See the section Defects 

(Quality and Condition) for descriptions of these and other defects. 

All commodities respire (breathe), although the rates of respiration differ by commodity. 

Through the respiration process commodities will naturally change. This may be a 

change in color, texture, size, or general condition. The process of respiration causes 

gases to be generated. Fresh-cut products, by the nature of their state, generate gases 

more readily than whole products. This fact, coupled with packaging and transportation,

can result in the occurrence of unique and unusual defects.

REPRESENTATIVE SAMPLING

Obtaining representative samples is essential. Accurate certification is possible only if 

the samples examined are truly representative of the entire lot or accessible portion. 

Sample all portions of a lot or load even if it is difficult to reach all layers or parts. If you 

cannot access the entire lot for sampling, restrict the inspection and certificate to the 

accessible portion.

SIZE OF PACKAGE

Generally, fresh-cut products will be packaged in small “consumer” type packages. 

They may range in size from less than 4 ounces to 5 pounds. Some fresh-cut product 

will be packaged in large size containers for restaurants or foodservice industries. 

Occasionally, the product will come in “bulk;” that is the master container is lined with a 

film bag, or only one bag is in a master container. These generally contain more than 5 

pounds of product.
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BASIS OF INSPECTION

Examine individual samples for the determination of defects and other factors. Base the 

inspection on weight or count, whichever is most appropriate. The weight will usually be 

marked on the package or master container, such as 10/4 pound bags, etc.

For products which are small and not easily handled, weight is the practical method of 

sampling. For example, chopped or shredded products, buds, or diced products. 

Counting the individual pieces in a six ounce sample of shredded lettuce would be 

tedious and time consuming. Inspections will also be based on weight when that item is 

less than 1⁄2 inch in two dimensions and the pieces in the sample are not uniform in size. 

Inspections may also be based on weight when the commodity prior to becoming freshcut is based on weight (e.g., Onions that have been peeled may be based on weight.)

Count may be more practical for sticks, balls, florets, rings and other products that are 

larger and more easily handled. For products which are larger than 1⁄2 inch in two 

dimensions (see Table A) it may be practical to base the inspection on count.

SIZE OF SAMPLE

The unit of measurement will be ounces, grams, or count, whichever is most 

appropriate for the fresh-cut product being inspected (see Basis of Inspection, above). 

For packages that contain eight ounces or less, 225 grams or less, or 50 count or less,

the sample size is the entire package. For packages that contain more than eight 

ounces, more than 225 grams, or more than 50 count, sample a minimum of 8 ounces, 

225 grams, or 50 count respectively.

Package Contains: Sample Size:

8 ounces or less, 225 grams or less,

50 count or less

entire contents of package

more than 8 ounces, more than 225 

grams, more than 50 count

minimum of 8 ounces, 225 grams, or

50 count

Report the size of samples taken for each lot in the “Other” or “Remarks” section of the 

certificate.

NUMBER OF SAMPLES

As a general rule, examine a minimum of 1% of the lot. For lots of fewer than 300 

packages, examine a minimum of 3 samples. For lots over 2,000 packages, sample at 

the rate of two-thirds of 1%. To ensure an accurate description of the lot, examine 
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(September 2016)

4

additional representative samples when the quality, condition, or size within samples is 

decidedly different.

CONSUMER SIZE PACKAGES

As a guide, on a full load of consumer sized packages, the minimum number of samples 

should be equal to the number of packages in 2 master containers. Up to 2 packages 

may be selected from each master container sampled. Correspondingly fewer samples 

may be drawn from smaller sized lots. An absolute minimum of 3 master containers 

should be sampled, unless there are less than three in the lot, then use each master 

container to choose sample packages.

BULK PACKAGES

For larger food service packages, such as master containers with ten pound (10 lbs.) 

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

than 300 packages a minimum of 3 samples must be examined.

DETERMINING AND REPORTING DEFECTS

Fresh-cut products are unique in that a container or sample may consist of hundreds of 

individual pieces of product. Defects are best described using percentages as well as 

the range and average for the numbers of affected pieces. 

WEIGHT BASED SAMPLES

For inspections based on weight, combine, weigh, and report the defects as “Total 

Defects” unless the individual specimens are large enough to report the defects 

separately. For example, carrot sticks that are not uniform in size may range from 3 to 

6 inches in length. In this case, the inspection would be based on weight, and, since

the defects are of adequate size, determine the percentage of defects separately.

Report the defects using percentages as well as the range and average number of 

pieces in the certificate example as follows:

Carrot Sticks (Pieces Not Uniform in Size) – Based on Weight

AVERAGE

DEFECTS X X OFFSIZE /DEFECTS OTHER

00 X X Quality 225 grams samples

08 X X Discoloration (6 to 9%). examined.

00 X X Soft Rot

08 X X Checksum
Shipping Point and Market Inspection Instructions for Fresh-Cut Produce

(September 2016)

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Inspections for commodities traditionally performed on the basis of weight prior to being 

fresh-cut, may also be based on weight. For example, peeled onions are inspected on 

the basis of weight as follows:

Peeled Onions – Based on Weight

AVERAGE

DEFECTS X X OFFSIZE /DEFECTS OTHER

00 X X Quality 20 lb. samples

05 X X Bruising (3 to 7%) examined.

02 X X Decay (0 to 4%) Early Stages.

07 X X Checksum

If the defects are not of adequate size to determine the percentage of defects 

separately, report the defects using percentages as well as the range and average 

number of defective pieces in the sample. Count defective pieces. Report defects and 

other factors of quality and condition using a narrative statement on the body of the 

certificate adjacent to the total percentage of all defects in the average defect column as 

follows:

Salad Mix – Based on Weight

AVERAGE

DEFECTS X X OFFSIZE /DEFECTS OTHER

14 X X Total Defects (13 to 15%) Including: From 12 to 50 pieces, 225 grams samples

14 X X Checksum average 31 pieces per sample affected by examined.

X X X Discoloration; From 2 to 8 pieces, average 5 

X X X pieces per sample affected by decay.

In the preceding example the percentages were determined based on weight, as the 

sample size was 225 grams. This combined method of reporting percentages and 

pieces is intended to provide a clear picture of the quality and condition of the lot and/or 

load. For example, less than 1% discoloration generally would be insignificant. 

However, that particular percentage may consist of several individual pieces of product 

affected by discoloration in the sample. In this case, reporting the range and average 

number of pieces affected may help provide a clearer picture of the lot.

The following “Ounce to Gram Conversion Chart” may be of use when inspecting freshcut commodities on the basis of weight.
Shipping Point and Market Inspection Instructions for Fresh-Cut Produce

(September 2016)

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Ounce to Gram Conversion Chart

Ounces Grams Ounces Grams

1 28 9 255

2 57 10 284

3 85 11 312

4 113 12 340

5 142 13 369

6 170 14 397

7 198 15 425

8 227 16 454

*Conversions rounded to nearest gram

COUNT BASED SAMPLES

Base inspections on count when pieces are more than 1⁄2 inch in two directions, when 

the pieces are uniform in size, and when it is determined by the inspector that count is 

the most practical basis for the inspection. For inspections based on count report the 

defects separately as follows:

Peeled Baby Carrots (Pieces Fairly Uniform in Size) – Based on Count

AVERAGE

DEFECTS X X OFFSIZE /DEFECTS OTHER

12 X X Discoloration (8 to 16%) 50 count samples

08 X X Flabby (2 to 10%) examined.

06 X X Soft Rot (2 to 10%)

26 X X Checksum

See Appendix III for additional notesheet and certificate examples.

REPORTING SIZE OF SAMPLES

Report the size of samples taken for each lot in the “Other” or “Remarks” section of the 

certificate. For example, report this information as:

• “50 count samples examined” (when packages contain more than 50 count);

• “6 ounce samples examined” (when packages contain 8 ounces or less);

• “8 ounce samples examined” (when packages contain 8 ounces),

• “300 gram samples examined” (when packages contain more than 225 grams), 

or
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• “Entire package examined” (when packages contain 8 ounces or less and count 

varies in packages).

EXCESSIVE DEFECTS

Occasionally, packages will be inspected that contain an unusually large amount of 

defects. This is especially true when product is affected by decay. When the amount of 

defects present, in the lot as a whole, is excessive, it can be reported using general 

quantity terms. For example: “In most packages generally all product is decayed; in 

some packages most product shows tan to brown discoloration”; “In all packages 

generally all product is slimy;” or “Upon opening, all packages emit a sour odor with 

most product being decayed.”

TOLERANCES AND APPLICATION OF TOLERANCES

TOLERANCES

Fresh-cut products which are inspected as no established U.S. grades do not have 

tolerances for off-size, defects or defective packages. The average percent of defects 

will be determined and reported based on the instructions for representative sampling in 

this handbook.

APPLICATION OF TOLERANCES

Since fresh-cut products do not have tolerances, they also do not have an application of 

tolerances.

NOTESHEET AND CERTIFICATE

Entries on the notesheet and certificate must be legible and accurate. Support all 

information appearing on the certificate by information on the notesheet. All information 

and notations must be properly recorded so that anyone familiar with inspection 

procedures can understand them and write a certificate. Notesheets and certificates 

are prima facie evidence and must withstand legal scrutiny.

Detailed instructions about dates, inspection points, places of inspection, types of 

carriers, lading, and other items not covered by these instructions may be found in the 

General Shipping Point Manual, General Market Manual, Federal-State Inspection 

Certificate (FV-184) Handbook, or Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Inspection Certificate (FV300) Manual. Contact your supervisor for anything not covered in these instructions.
Shipping Point and Market Inspection Instructions for Fresh-Cut Produce

(September 2016)

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PRODUCT/COMMODITY

Whether packaged individually or in a mix, report the common name of the 

commodity(s) and the style of cut (see below) for all fresh-cut produce in the “Product”

section of the certificate, such as:

• Pineapple Chunks;

• Apple Wedges;

• Sliced Mushrooms;

• Carrot Sticks;

• Diced Peppers and Onions;

• Shredded Lettuce;

• Shredded Cabbage; or,

• Salad mix containing chopped lettuce, shredded carrots and shredded red 

cabbage. 

If more space is need for the common name and style of cut than is available in the 

“Product” section of the certificate, they may be reported in the “Lot ID” or “Remarks”

sections on the certificate.

Do not name commodities in a mix if you are unsure or unable to properly identify them. 

Also, do not identify the commodity using trade names or trade terms. For example, do 

not use “Car-a-bites”; instead, use carrots with the term for the style of cut (e.g., “peeled 

baby carrots”).

The major products used by the industry are lettuce (including iceberg lettuce, romaine, 

endive, escarole, and leaf lettuce); cabbage; carrots; onions; celery; melons; and 

pineapple. However, any commodity can be cut into a fresh-cut product and may be 

offered for inspection. Many specialty commodities are also being offered as fresh-cut 

products.

The chart in Appendix II illustrates some of the various commodities and styles that are 

commonly prepared. The chart is not all-inclusive. Fresh-cut products are continually 

being developed and marketed by the industry.
Shipping Point and Market Inspection Instructions for Fresh-Cut Produce

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STYLE OF CUT

Fresh-cut produce is available in many styles. The major styles include chopped, 

shredded, sticks, florets, and coins, among others. The styles may be further defined 

by specific sizes.

The style of cut may be reported along with the commodity in the “Product” section of 

the certificate (see Product/Commodity, on previous page). A “Glossary of Terms for 

Fresh-cut Styles” is in Appendix I. It lists and defines various cut styles currently being 

seen in the marketplace. Similar styles that are differentiated by size are grouped 

together in the list. The list is not all-inclusive; others may also be seen.

A particular style may be specified by the applicant, or it may be stated on the package. 

If either is the case, use the specified term as the style of cut. However, if a style of cut 

is not specified, use the “Glossary of Terms” to determine which term is most 

appropriate.

NUMBER/TYPE OF CONTAINERS

Always report the number of containers. In the market and at shipping point locations 

for stationary lot certification, always verify the container count provided by the applicant 

for each lot and report it as the “inspector’s count.” When the number of containers 

available for inspection does not match the application, confirm that the amount 

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

report the count at someone else’s authority, but also report the reason for doing so on 

the notesheet (e.g., numerous pallets with mixed product).

At shipping point locations for “days-run” certification, the manifest for count typically 

provided by the applicant is acceptable to use for reporting the number of containers.

Fresh-cut products are packaged in various containers. The most common containers 

are plastic film bags (herein referred to as “film bags”) with airtight seals, and molded 

plastic trays with clam-shell like lids or plastic over-wrap. Other types of packaging may 

also be seen. The fresh-cut industry uses a multitude of container sizes ranging from 

small single serving pouches to larger bags. They also use plastic containers that 

would serve four to eight people or that could be used in the restaurant or foodservice 

segment of the industry. The individual bags or other containers are usually packed in 

master containers, generally fiberboard cartons. Product may also be packaged in bulk 

(one bag per master container.)

Report the type of container on the notesheet using generic terms. Use terms such as: 

film bags, molded cups or baskets with hinged lids, fiberboard cartons, etc. Do not 

report the type of packaging using trade terms, since there may be confusion and the 
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10

possibility of misnaming a type of package may occur. Refer to the General Market 

Manual for more detailed instructions concerning packaging and type of container.

For defects associated with packaging see the Condition of Pack section of these 

instructions.

BRANDS/MARKINGS

At shipping point, report the brand, variety, size, color, Positive Lot Identification (PLI), 

and other important information appearing on the container on the notesheet and 

certificate in the appropriate sections.

At market, report the brand, variety, size, color, count, grade, weight, point of origin, and 

other important information appearing on the container on the notesheet in the 

“Brands/Marks” section. On the certificate, report only the brand name and other 

pertinent information in the “Brand/Markings” section.

PACKAGE CODES

Some processing plants print, brand or otherwise mark a code on the film bags, other 

containers and/or master containers. The meaning of the codes varies with the plant 

where the product was processed. Most codes indicate some type of a date; processed 

date, packing date, shipping date, best if used by date, last date of sale, sell by date or 

expiration date. Some codes may indicate other information. This information is similar 

to a lot identification mark. Therefore, if present, show it on the notesheet and on the 

certificate. Refer to the General Market Manual for more detailed instructions pertaining 

to lot identification.

INGREDIENT LABEL

Some packages may show an ingredient label or list. It may state “ingredients”

“contains,” or “may contain,” among other statements, and be followed by a list of one or 

more fresh-cut commodities. Pay special attention to packages that shows an 

ingredient list. No ingredient list is required on packages by the Inspection Service. 

However, if a list is present, the listed fresh-cut commodities should be in the package 

or lot. Throughout the lot, if one commodity is missing in a package, but appears in 

other packages, it may not be considered misbranding. Report possible violations of 

the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act to the appropriate authorities.

Note the difference between the phrases “contains...” and “may contain....” The 

statement “may contain...” implies that the listed product may or may not be present.
Shipping Point and Market Inspection Instructions for Fresh-Cut Produce

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11

ORIGIN

Do not make a positive statement about origin on your own authority; rather, quote the 

container markings that list the state or country of origin in the appropriate space on the 

notesheet and the certificate. If origin is not marked, try to obtain this information from 

the applicant. This policy is necessary because some firms may use one mark on the 

same product packed in several states.

CONDITION OF PACK

Although “normal” pack conditions are not generally reported, be aware that fresh-cut 

products may be packaged in many types of packs. Inspect different types of packs as 

separate lots. Various normal conditions include airtight sealed bags with or without an 

apparent vacuum, or pillow packs (modified atmosphere), or molded plastic containers, 

or combinations of these and others types.

Report on the notesheet the type of pack, and if present, any defects of the pack. 

Describe in detail on the notesheet and certificate any abnormal or defective condition 

of the pack that could affect the quality, condition or marketability of the product. The 

following lists a few types of packs. The list is not intended to be all encompassing, 

since new technologies are being developed.

SEALED BAGS

Most film bags are sealed so that the contents do not come in contact with the outside 

air. Some types of film bags are “semi-permeable” – perforated bags allowing air into or 

out of the bag, “non-permeable” – not allowing any exchange of air, or packaged with a 

gas atmosphere inside the bag.

The bags are usually sealed as they come off the packaging line. They may be vacuum 

sealed, sealed with a partial vacuum, sealed with no vacuum, or sealed with gas 

atmosphere inside the bag, resulting in a “pillow pack.” Additionally, some film bags 

have re-sealable features, similar to a zipper-type closure.

In vacuum sealing, the excess air is removed before the bag is sealed. Some product 

may have a tight vacuum seal, removing as much air as possible from the bag. The 

result is a bag that is tightly molded to the contours of the product within the bag. Other 

product may have a partial vacuum, where only some of the air is removed from the 

bag. This type of pack will allow the bag to gently enclose the product within the bag. 

This type of seal may be desirable for product that would otherwise be damaged (by 

bruising) if a tight vacuum seal were applied.

Gas atmosphere has been used in the produce industry for many years. Its major use 

has been to change the atmosphere causing the product to respire slowly and arrive at 
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destination in a fresh condition. Bags that have been sealed to enclose the product in a 

gas atmosphere will appear inflated. This is normal for this type of pack. It is commonly 

referred to as a “pillow pack.”

A defective package that closely resembles the pillow pack is the “bloated bag.” It is not

a normal condition, and is generally the result of decaying or otherwise spoiled product 

generating gases in the package, and causing the packaging to expand. See the 

section below on Defective Packaging for further descriptions and reporting of bloated 

bags.

MASTER CONTAINERS

Film bags or other containers of fresh-cut product are generally packed in fiberboard 

master containers. Some master containers may have dividers separating the 

consumer containers. The master containers are generally sealed with tape or glue, 

and palletized. The pallets may be banded, or the master containers may have glue 

applied to the tops to keep the layers of containers together.

DEFECTIVE PACKAGING

Report defective packaging using general terms and a description of the defective 

packages (in the “Other” or “Remarks” section). A complimentary statement is not 

necessary. A proportionate number of these same packages can be used for the 

inspection of the actual product. However, if the product in these packages is distinctly 

different than product in normal packages, inspect and report separately. Report 

normal conditions of the packages only at the specific request of the applicant. When 

an inspection is requested, report abnormal or unusual conditions, or defective

packaging which may have a bearing on quality or condition of the product. Some of 

the more common defects of the packaging include product in the seal, rips, or holes in 

the packages, and bloated bags.

Report defective packs using general quantity terms for the number of packages in the 

lot. When using general quantity terms for containers, the term “occasional” (meaning 1 

to 5%) can be used.

PRODUCT IN THE SEAL

Check if packaging is free from product in the seal or seam. This is especially critical 

for sealed film bags. If found, make a general statement in the “Other” or “Remarks”

section, such as “A few (some, many, etc.) film bags show lettuce (cabbage, carrot, 

etc.) in seal.”

Product in the seal may be a result of equipment working improperly. Processors desire 

this information so adjustments to equipment and “in-house” inspections can be made 
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accordingly. Additionally, product in the seal may cause some or all of the remainder of 

the product to be defective.

RIPS, TEARS, HOLES, OR BROKEN PACKAGES

Check if packages are free from rips, tears, holes, or broken containers. Report the 

location in the master container in the “Other” or “Remarks” section, especially if a 

pattern can be found. If such containers are found, make a general statement such as 

“A few (some, many, etc.) film bags show tears from 1⁄2 to 1 inch in length in bags 

adjacent master container walls,” or “Many bags broken open.”

If the product is defective within packages that are ripped or torn, etc., give a thorough 

description of the resulting product defects. Also report abnormal or unusual conditions 

of master containers.

BLOATED BAGS

Packages should not be expanded or bloated beyond normal packaging practices. 

Usually, bags that are bloated will be on the verge of rupturing or otherwise opening. 

Gases are generated from decaying or fermenting product, which may cause the bag to 

expand.

For this condition, consider the following: First, many types of packs are now being 

sealed with a modified atmosphere, this type of packaging is referred to as “pillowpack.” This is normal, and may be preferred depending on the type of product. It 

should not be considered a defect, however, it can be reported. Any number of pack 

types may appear somewhat bloated. Consider the overall condition of the lot. Second, 

if packages are bloated, then defects affecting the product generally will be found. For 

example, product may be decayed, or slimy, or otherwise affected by decay producing 

organisms; excessive liquid may be present in the bags; or off-odors may be present 

upon opening the bags.

NET WEIGHT

Net weight can be determined on any lot. In general, the product will not have to be 

removed from the packages, as the weight of the package will be negligible. In a few 

cases, product must be removed from the packages to accurately determine net weight. 

However, remove individual bags or other containers from master containers.

Note unusual circumstances, such as torn bags with contents spilled, bags with 

contents showing excessive aging, loss of moisture, wilting, or decay. These conditions 

may affect the weight of the product after it was packaged. For determining net weight 

follow the procedures outlined in the General Market Manual.
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TEMPERATURE OF PRODUCT

Temperatures are not normally determined or reported 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 you accurately determine and report the temperature 

or range in temperatures on each lot. Report pulp temperature regardless of the 

location of the product, e.g., in the carrier, in a warehouse, or stacked on a platform.

Precool the thermometer to obtain true readings and report all temperatures to the 

nearest whole degree. Take a minimum of three temperatures for each lot; record the 

results on the notesheet. Take additional temperatures if the lot is abnormally cold or 

hot, or if there is a specific request for temperature. Specify the location where you took 

the temperature in the lot and/or load in greater detail when additional temperatures are 

taken.

SIZE

Unless specifically requested by the applicant, do not determine size. Processors 

prepare products in a wide range of sizes based on the needs and specifications of the 

customer. These specifications can change from day to day. It would be impossible to 

keep informed of all the possible sizes of cuts of the various products since 

commodities can be cut into a myriad of sizes.

If specifically requested, size can be determined. Report size in inches and fractions of 

inches. Depending on the specified size, measuring to the nearest 1/8 of an inch will 

usually be sufficient. However, if products are specified in 1/8 inch or smaller 

increments, then measure to the nearest 1/16 of an inch. The dimensions reported will 

largely depend on the style of cut. Table A shows the styles of cut (for any commodity) 

and the corresponding dimensions reported for the style.
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Table A

Style of cut Measure For:

Diameter Length1 Width1 Thickness

Buds x x

Chopped x x x

Chunks x x x

Coined x x

Crosscut x x

Crowns x x

Diced x x x

Florets x x

Julienne x x

Rings x x

Shredded x x

Sliced x x x x

Slivered x x

Spears x x

Stalks x x

Sticks x x

Strips x x

Trimmed & Cleaned x x

Trimmed & Cored x x

Wedges2 x x

Whole Peeled x x

Whole Trimmed x x

1 When measuring for length and width on shredded or chopped products, or other similar cut products, the length should be the 

larger of the two dimensions.

2 Length measured from tip to tip along outer edge, width measured midway between tips of wedge piece along outer edge.

Determine a size range (and any off-size based on specifications). If no size is 

specified, give a size range based on the smallest and largest pieces in the sample. 

This can be reported in the “Other” or “Remarks” section of the certificate. See 

Example 2 in Appendix III.

SAMPLE SIZE FOR DETERMINING SIZE

The sample size for determining size on fresh-cut products is the same size as for 

defect determination (entire contents for packages which contain 8 ounces, 225 grams, 

or 50 count, or less; a minimum of 8 ounces, 225 grams, or 50 count for packages 

which contain more than 8 ounces, 225 grams, or 50 count.) The same sample can be 

used for size determination and defect determination.
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DEFECTS (QUALITY AND CONDITION)

Statements pertaining to chemical contaminants, excessive water in packages, offcolor, off-odor, 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 or “permanent”

defects are those that do not change during storage or shipment (e.g., shape and 

scars).

Report factors noted with (C) as CONDITION on market certificates. Condition defects

are factors subject to change during shipment or storage, such as bruising, 

discoloration, shriveling, and decay.

Factors noted with (Q or C) may be considered as QUALITY or CONDITION, 

depending on the circumstances.

Use the following attributes (relating to qualities of a product that stimulate the sense 

organs) to judge the overall freshness of a fresh-cut product: color, odor, texture, and 

defects. Some of these qualities should be measured based on the general 

appearance of the product or lot, while others should be measured based on individual 

pieces of product. Many of the defects found in fresh-cut products are similar to those 

found in the whole uncut commodity. However, some products may have unique 

characteristics, which should be specified in the descriptions of such factors. 

Additionally, some defects may be specific to a particular product.

When inspecting fresh-cut commodities as a no established U.S. grade, do not use the 

terms “grade defects,” “injury,” “damage,” “serious damage,” and “very serious 

damage.” Additionally, do not use descriptive terms such as “materially” or “seriously”

affecting appearance as these terms are used in the general definitions of damage and 

serious damage. Instead, describe the objectionable factor(s) in terms of color, area 

affected and depth, etc.

Example certificates which show various defect and general statements can be found in 

Appendix III.

BRUISING OR BROKEN PIECES (Q OR C)

Ensure fresh-cut product is free from bruising or broken pieces. This will generally only 

be a noticeable factor in products that are larger than shredded, chopped, diced, cubed, 

julienne, and slivered styles. Bruising or broken pieces normally occurs in the 

packaging and/or transit processes. It most commonly occurs in lettuce or other leafy 

products if they are packaged too tightly in containers (too tight of a vacuum). It may 

also occur as a result of rough handling.
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CHEMICAL CONTAMINANTS

The inspection service cannot determine whether a product has chemical

contamination. If requested, inform the applicant that the Food and Drug Administration 

(FDA) can evaluate this factor. You can draw sample packages for the FDA or an 

applicant's designated laboratory, if requested (appropriate fees will apply).

CORE PIECES, END PIECES, ROOTS AND PEELS (Q)

Ensure fresh-cut product is free from identifiable core pieces, end pieces, roots, and 

peels. Core pieces, end pieces, roots, and peels are objectionable because they are 

generally inedible. They are usually removed on the grading line. However, it is difficult 

to assure that every piece is removed. Removal at a later point in the marketing 

channel would be very labor intensive.

“Core pieces” refers to pieces of the core of the commodity prior to it being cut into the 

fresh-cut product. In usual preparation for fresh-cut products, “head” type commodities 

are cored (the core is removed). Occasionally part of the core is not removed in the 

coring process. Even if present, core pieces may not be identifiable in fresh-cut product 

that is shredded, chopped or otherwise cut into small pieces, and therefore, would not 

be objectionable. “End pieces” refers to the ends of commodities that are usually cut off 

in normal preparation prior to being cut into the fresh-cut product—such as ends of 

carrots and ends of onions. “Roots” refers to the actual growing roots of commodities -

such as onions and garlic. “Peels” refers to the outer peel of a commodity prior to being 

cut into the fresh-cut product—such as onions, garlic, melons, and potatoes (if the 

fresh-cut product is peeled).

DISCOLORATION (C)

Ensure fresh-cut product is free from discoloration. Consider any color which is not the 

normal color of the cut product, and is not “off-color” (see section on Off-Color) as 

discoloration. Discoloration usually affects only a portion of a piece of fresh-cut product, 

but may affect the entire piece. 

When reporting this defect describe the color—yellow, pink, red, brown, black, or other 

color; and the extent to which the pieces are affected—entire pieces, spotty, stripes, 

edges, etc. Keep separate columns on the notesheet for the different types of 

discoloration (black, tan, pink, etc.) as separate categories if more than one distinct type 

of discoloration is present. The description of the extent and color assists the industry 

to determine how and/or why the discoloration occurred.

It is too difficult to determine the actual name of the different types of discoloration. For 

example, once a head of lettuce with obvious tipburn has been cut into chopped lettuce 

the pieces affected may have discoloration on one or more edges up to the entire piece. 
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No positive determination can be made as to whether the original discoloration was 

tipburn or some other type of discoloration. For this reason describe several types of 

specific defects as discoloration, including tipburn and russet spotting.

Do not confuse discoloration and tipburn with decay. Pieces affected by discoloration 

and tipburn will not disintegrate when rubbed between the fingers, while tissue affected 

by decay will disintegrate.

Fresh-cut products that are particularly susceptible to discoloration include lettuces, 

cabbages, and other leafy greens.

WHITE BLUSH ON CARROT ROOTS

“Manufactured” baby carrots, otherwise known as cut and peel carrots, are one of the

most prevalent styles of fresh-cut carrots. These “manufactured” baby carrots are not 

“true” baby carrots (those which are harvested before reaching maturity—characterized 

by a shoulder and textured peel); they are fully matured carrots which are cut into two 

inch sections and are peeled for a uniform appearance.

The processing of fresh-cut carrot sticks, match stick carrots, carrot coins, 

“manufactured” baby carrots, and other styles of peeled, cut and/or chopped carrots 

shortens the shelf life of the carrots. The surface of the carrots where the skin has been 

removed, or where they have been cut and/or chopped, oxidize more readily. These 

oxidized areas are characterized by dryness and a white chalky appearance. This white 

chalky appearance has been named “white blush” by industry. White blush is a natural 

occurrence on fresh-cut and whole carrots.

To prolong shelf-life and delay the appearance of the white blush, fresh-cut carrots often 

are treated with chilled water, a chlorine bath, or a Citrox solution. The chlorine 

treatments are used to disinfect cut areas and postpone white coloration; they are not 

the cause of white blush.

Since, white blush occurs naturally on carrots, fresh-cut and whole, do not score as a 

defect on fresh-cut carrots. White blush may be reported at the applicant’s request in 

the “Other” or “Remarks” section. For example, “Most carrot sticks have white blush 

affecting from 30 to 50% of the surface, reported at applicant’s request.”

EXCESSIVE DRYING (C)

Ensure fresh-cut product is free from excessive drying. Normal product is fresh and 

succulent. Fruits and vegetables are naturally high in water. Most fresh-cut product is 

dried, either in a centrifuge or with forced air, after it has been washed and cut. At times 

the product will lose not only the external moisture, but internal moisture also. If the 

product seems to contain little or no internal moisture, report as “Dry.” The product will 
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appear dry, papery, with veins more pronounced (for leafy products) or somewhat 

washed out in appearance (carrots).

Any fresh-cut product may be affected by excessive drying; however, leafy products are 

particularly susceptible.

EXCESSIVE WATER IN PACKAGES

Normal fresh-cut vegetable product is fresh and succulent, but not soggy. Packages 

must not contain an excessive amount of water. If there is any amount of water in the 

corner of packages of fresh-cut vegetable product that are not normally packed in water, 

then consider the sample package as having “excessive water.”

Most fresh-cut products are washed, cut, dried, and packaged. At times the drying 

stage is not adequate, causing water to accumulate in the packages. Excessive water 

is objectionable because of the possibility of the water causing fermentation in the 

sealed packages, or causing the product to be watersoaked. This defect affects the 

appearance of the packages.

Some products are packed in water and some fresh-cut fruit products may yield a small 

amount of natural juice during transportation. When encountering normal and desirable

conditions such as these, do not report as defective. Report these facts in the “Other,”

or “Remarks” section.

To determine if free or excessive water is present, tilt the package so that a corner is 

pointing down, but keep the product from filling the corner of the package. Any amount 

of free or excessive water is objectionable. Do not wait too long to make the 

determination for excessive water in packages, since even in packs without excessive 

water, water may collect if they are left for a long period of time. See the following 

illustration.
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FOREIGN MATERIAL, AND DIRT, SAND OR SOIL (Q)

Ensure fresh-cut product is free from foreign material, dirt, sand, or soil. Foreign 

material may be plastic, glass, metal, off-type fruit or vegetable pieces, or other items 

not desired in the fresh-cut product (this does not refer to core pieces, end pieces, roots 

and peels, which are reported as a separate defect). These items may have been 

inadvertently placed into packages in the processing or packaging line. Many 

processors use metal detectors to detect the presence of metals in packages. Dirt, 

sand, or soil may have been on the whole commodity prior to processing, but was not 

washed off during processing. Generally, foreign material, dirt, sand, or soil will be 

loose in the packages. However, in some cases individual pieces may be affected by 

adhering foreign material, dirt, sand, or soil. Report these defects as affecting the 

appearance of the packages.

LARGE PIECES (Q)

Ensure fresh-cut product is free from “large pieces.” These are pieces of product that 

are visually considerably larger than the average pieces in the package. This does not 

mean a “size” inspection must take place. Large pieces, although they may be blemish 

free, are objectionable in the package presentation. For example, chopped or shredded 

lettuce may contain pieces that are obviously larger than the average size piece in the 

package. The pieces are not cut into the proper size mainly because of the way the 

whole commodity was fed into the cutting machines.
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Fresh-cut products that may be affected by large pieces include, but are not limited to: 

lettuces, cabbages, and onions.

MECHANICAL DAMAGE (Q OR C)

Ensure fresh-cut product is free from mechanical damage. Mechanical damage will 

appear as jagged, torn, or roughly cut edges on individual pieces of product. The 

cutting knives must be razor sharp to give a smooth, straight cut. However, at times 

they may not be as sharp as necessary and may tear product instead of cutting it with 

smooth edges. It can also occur if product is processed at a rate too fast for the 

machinery to cut properly.

MOLD (C)

Ensure fresh-cut product is free from mold. Mold may appear as white, gray, black, or 

other colors. The mold may appear as tiny spots or as larger areas affecting individual 

pieces of product.

If the pieces affected by mold have advanced to decay, score as decay.

MUSHINESS (C)

Ensure pieces of fresh-cut product are fresh, crisp, and/or firm. Pieces that are partially 

or completely mushy are considered defects. If the mushiness has advanced to decay, 

score as decay.

Mushiness appears as a mushy or soft condition affecting pieces of the product. The 

pieces are soft, and may collapse when handled. If the tissue breaks down and 

disintegrates it should be considered decay. However, if the tissue does not breakdown 

or disintegrate, but only collapses without the tissue actually sloughing away, but is 

otherwise soft or mushy it should be described as mushy.

OFF-COLOR

Ensure fresh-cut products have normal color for the product. The normal color of the 

product is not necessarily the same as the color of the product desired by the applicant. 

A normal color that is not desired by the applicant is considered an off-color. If present, 

always make a statement to describe off-colors. A general statement may be made on 

the certificate to indicate the normal color of the product if requested.

Base the description of “off-color” on the overall appearance of the color for the pieces 

in the lot and report using general terms. For example, in a lot of chopped romaine that 

shows off-color: “Product is generally whitish-green to green, few pieces yellow.” In 

this example the yellow is the off-color, yellow is a normal color for the inner leaves of 
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romaine, however, it may be undesirable for an applicant who is purchasing chopped 

romaine. A complimentary statement to indicate normal colors does not need to be 

made unless specifically requested. If reported, normal color may be described by 

using the actual colors of the product or by using a more general statement. For 

example, in shredded green cabbage: “Product is of normal color characteristic for the 

fresh-cut product,” or “Product is generally whitish-green to green color.”

Do not include reference to discoloration defects (discolored spots, reddish-brown 

discolored edges, etc.) when stating off-color, but rather the inherent coloration of the 

product (see section on Discoloration). Fresh-cut products show areas that may not be 

visible during inspection of the commodity when it is whole and uncut. These areas 

may be lighter or darker in color than the external areas. For example, normal color for 

the external leaves of whole iceberg lettuce is at least light green (on 3/4 of the crown), 

but the internal leaves may be yellowish to white. Normal color for fresh-cut lettuce 

includes white, whitish-green, yellowish-green, light green, and green; normal color for 

whole red cabbage is reddish-purple to dark purple; normal color for fresh-cut red 

cabbage includes white, whitish-red, reddish-purple to purple.

OFF-ODORS

Ensure fresh-cut product is free from off-odors. These include, but are not limited to: 

chlorine smell, ammonia smell, musty/moldy smell, sour smell, fermented smell, and 

other odors not typical of fresh vegetables or fruits in the package (e.g., a chopped 

lettuce product should not smell like an onion product).

Make a general statement on the certificate to indicate if off-odors are present. 

Determine off-odors immediately after packages have been opened. The statement on 

the certificate would be similar to: “Upon opening, product in some (most, many, etc.) 

packages emits a sour (chlorine, musty, etc.) odor.” A complimentary statement may be 

made, such as: “Most (some, etc.) packages have a fresh, characteristic smell.” 

Determine other factors and defects regardless of the presence or absence of off-odors.

Fresh-cut products are processed using a number of different steps and procedures. 

One step that may be used is a chlorine rinse of the product. The actual amount of 

chlorine is generally very small. In most processing operations, the product is handled 

in such a way that no odor is detectable in the finished product. However, this is not 

always the case and upon opening packages a chlorine smell may be evident. Sour or 

fermented odors may be an indication of spoilage. Decay, slimy or mushy product may 

be present. Musty or moldy odors may be an indication of old product or mold in the 

product.
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SHRIVELING (C)

Ensure fresh-cut product is free from shriveling (except very slight shriveling). 

Shriveling appears as wrinkling of the outer layers of a product and generally affects the 

appearance of the individual pieces of product. Ignore very slight shriveling.

Fresh-cut products that may be affected by shriveling include, but are not limited to: 

sweet peppers and tomatoes.

SLIMINESS (C)

Ensure fresh-cut product is free from sliminess. In some products this is the stage 

immediately prior to decay. Individual pieces of the product feel oily and/or slimy. Do 

not confuse this with product that is only wet. The product that is slimy will have a 

definite slimy feel.

STRINGINESS OR RIBBINESS (Q)

Ensure fresh-cut product is free from stringiness or ribbiness. These defects, if found in 

the fresh-cut product, will have been present in the whole commodity prior to 

processing. They are usually associated with an overmature, overgrown, or tough 

condition of the whole commodity. Individual pieces may be crisp, but will not break 

cleanly and easily.

Fresh-cut products that may be affected by stringiness or ribbiness include, but are not 

limited to: cabbages, lettuces, celery, and other leafy commodities.

WILTED OR FLABBINESS (C)

Ensure fresh-cut product is fresh, crisp, and/or firm. Pieces that are soft, limp, and 

drooping are considered defects and reported as “wilted” or “flabby.” The pieces lack 

firmness or turgidity, and generally bend easily without breaking.

DECAY OR SOFT ROT (C)

Ensure fresh-cut product is free from decay or soft rot. Decay or soft rot may be of any 

color and is characterized by a deterioration of tissue. It is serious and progressive in 

nature. Tissue breakdown and disintegration will occur. Score decay or soft rot based 

on the individual pieces of product. For example, use “decay” for cauliflower, broccoli, 

melons, onions, etc.; use “soft rot” for potatoes, carrots, cabbage, etc.

Always make a statement about decay or soft rot on the certificate, either as the range 

and average number of affected pieces, or as “no decay” if none is present.
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APPENDIX I – GLOSSARY OF TERMS FOR FRESH-CUT STYLES

This glossary is intended to be used as a reference for describing the style of cut for 

fresh-cut products. If the style of cut is not specified (by applicant, on package, on 

manifest documents, etc.), use this glossary to determine which term is most 

appropriate based on the style of cut. However, if the style of cut is specified, use the 

term specified.

The “Common Commodities” listed for each definition are not intended to be a complete 

list. Other commodities, not listed, may be used when making a particular fresh-cut 

product. Illustrations are not drawn to scale.

Balls

Pieces of a commodity cut into spheres, either 

smooth or corrugated; usually “bite size.”

Common commodities - cantaloup, 

honeydew, watermelon.

Buds, Florets, Crowns

Lateral or terminal flowers or clusters of flowers 

from the head or stem of a flowering or curd 

type commodity; may be joined by a portion of 

the main or lateral stem.

Common commodities - broccoli, cauliflower.
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Chopped, Shredded

Pieces of a commodity cut with square, 

rectangular or irregular sides; may be long and 

narrow or short and stocky.

Common commodities - cabbage, carrots, 

lettuce, romaine, other leafy greens.

Coined, Crosscut, Rings, Slices

Pieces of a commodity cut at right angles to the 

longitudinal axis of the commodity; pieces are 

usually of uniform thickness with parallel 

surfaces and which otherwise conform to the 

shape of the commodity; may be smooth or 

corrugated; may be bias cut (approximate 45°

angle cut instead of right angle cut).

Common commodities - broccoli stem pieces, 

carrots, celery, onions, sweet peppers, 

potatoes, tomatoes.

Diced, Cubed, Chunks, Wedges

Pieces of a commodity cut into squares, 

rectangles, or triangles; sides may be 

somewhat equal (diced, cubed, wedges) or 

irregular (chunks).

Common commodities - broccoli stem pieces, 

celery, melons, pineapples, potatoes, onions, 

tomatoes.
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Julienne, Slivered, Strips, Spears, Stalks, Sticks

Pieces of commodity cut parallel to the 

longitudinal axis of the commodity usually with 

somewhat parallel surfaces; may have ends 

intact, squared off, or tapered to a point; may 

be fairly uniform throughout the length of the 

piece.

Common commodities - broccoli stem pieces, 

carrots, celery, onions, sweet peppers, 

pineapples, potatoes.

Trimmed & Cleaned, Trimmed & Cored, Whole Peeled, Whole Trimmed

A product which retains the approximate 

original shape of the commodity (or leaves in 

the case of spinach leaves), usually washed; 

may have peel removed; may have core 

removed; may have excess roots, tops, stems, 

and/or outer leaves removed.

Common commodities - cabbage, carrots, 

cauliflower, celery, garlic, grapes, lettuce, 

romaine, other leafy greens, onions, potatoes, 

spinach leaves, strawberries.

Random Cut

Pieces of a commodity cut into random shapes 

(and sizes).

Common commodities - any commodity.
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APPENDIX II – CHART FOR STYLE OF CUT

Commodity

Style of Cut

BroccoliCabbageCarrotsCauliflowerCeleryGarlicGrapesLettuceMelonsOnionsPeppersPineapplesPotatoesRomaineStrawberriesTomatoes

Balls X

Buds X X

Crowns X X

Florets X X

Chopped X X X

Shredded X X X X

Coined X X

Crosscut X

Rings X

Sliced X X X X X X

Cubed X X

Diced X X X X X X X X

Chunks X X

Wedges X X X X

Julienne X X

Slivered X

Strips X

Spears X

Stalks X

Sticks X X X X

Trim & Cln X X X X

Trim & Core X X X

Whole Peel X X X X

Whole Trim X X
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APPENDIX III – INSPECTION EXAMPLES

EXAMPLE 1: FV-300 NOTESHEET (FRONT)
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(September 2016)

30

EXAMPLE 1: FV-300 NOTESHEET (BACK)
Shipping Point and Market Inspection Instructions for Fresh-Cut Produce

(September 2016)

31

EXAMPLE 1: FV-300 CERTIFICATE
Shipping Point and Market Inspection Instructions for Fresh-Cut Produce

(September 2016)

32

EXAMPLE 2: FV-300 NOTESHEET (FRONT)
Shipping Point and Market Inspection Instructions for Fresh-Cut Produce

(September 2016)

33

EXAMPLE 2: FV-300 NOTESHEET (BACK)
Shipping Point and Market Inspection Instructions for Fresh-Cut Produce

(September 2016)

34

EXAMPLE 2: FV-300 CERTIFICATE
Shipping Point and Market Inspection Instructions for Fresh-Cut Produce

(September 2016)

35

EXAMPLE 3: FV-300 NOTESHEET (FRONT)
Shipping Point and Market Inspection Instructions for Fresh-Cut Produce

(September 2016)

36

EXAMPLE 3: FV-300 NOTESHEET (BACK)
Shipping Point and Market Inspection Instructions for Fresh-Cut Produce

(September 2016)

37

EXAMPLE 3: FV-300 CERTIFICATE
Shipping Point and Market Inspection Instructions for Fresh-Cut Produce

(September 2016)

38

EXAMPLE 4: FV-300 FEIRS CERTIFICATE

The Garlic Inspection 

Instructions specify 

six 100 count 

samples per load of 

peeled garlic.
Shipping Point and Market Inspection Instructions for Fresh-Cut Produce

(September 2016)

39

EXAMPLE 5: FV-300 FEIRS CERTIFICATE