dee

Revised, March 2006, HU-151-14(a)
Page 15, Watermelons, Shipping Point and Market
Inspection Instructions, June 1998

Please refer to the Official Visual Aid 2X2 Slides for illustrations of Immaturity.

Overripe (C)

Overripe melons are usually dull in appearance, lacking firmness, and sound
hollow or “flat” when slapped with the open hand. The flesh is mealy with little juice and
has decidedly open areas in the seed cavity. In advanced stages, the tissue around the
heart may be broken down to a mushy state and some separation from the rind occurs.
Melons in this state will have a sickening sweet or flat taste.

Many hybrid varieties can exhibit open seed pockets with loosely held seeds or
have slightly watersoaked flesh. These characteristics alone are not foolproof indicators
of overripe, regardless of melon type. The overall flesh condition (color, texture and
taste) of the entire melon must be taken into account before overripe is scored.
Practically speaking, melons scored as overripe have no commercial value whatsoever.

As defined in the grade standards, overripe melons are of an advanced maturity
with mealy, less juicy flesh or having an insipid taste. “Overripe” is always scored as
serious damage.

Watersoaked Flesh (C)

Watermelons will absorb large amounts of water if the growing season is
particularly wet or if heavy rain occurs prior to harvesting. This can result in the melons
absorbing a great deal of water and the flesh having an excessively watersoaked
appearance. Generally, the flesh will still be firm, at least fairly sweet and not breaking
down. Melons affected with these symptoms are not scorable and should be described
in general terms in the “OTHER” section on the FV-300 or under “REMARKS” on the FV-
184 as not affecting grade.

Melons with watersoaked flesh that are not firm, not at least fairly sweet, have a
sour odor, or are breaking down shall be scored as damage if materially affecting the
appearance, or edible or shipping quality of the melon. Score as serious damage if
seriously affecting the appearance, or edible or shipping quality of the melon.

Second Growth (Q)

Melons approaching normal maturity following moderate to heavy rain may be
susceptible to second growth. The heart area may have a pale red color and be fairly
sweet. The area outside the heart, however, is usually a whitish-pink color with one or
more distinct areas near the rind 1 or 2 inches in diameter of a white to yellowish or light
brown color having a “curlicue” appearance. The flesh in these areas is usually less
than fairly sweet.

Do not score melons with up to 2 areas of second growth when the remaining
flesh is fairly sweet and has at least pale red color. If the remaining flesh has pale red
color and is not fairly sweet, score the melons as immature. If there are three or more
areas of second growth, 1 to 2 inches in diameter, which are not at least fairly sweet,
score as serious damage by second growth (based on a 25 pound melon).

15

seek


Van

eiejoege ore yoy (08-1) S6O-Ad PUT (98-7) COC-AI PODEKO (08 + 01) 066 *Ad_ WHOS,
“ug so 1804 oud UeUt

—— $

TI TY

ATPL HE,

e1ow YOU Jo} JUaWUOsLdW} Jo OOO'ES UY) BOW JOU Jo
aul} B 0} J9e[qns s| 'sUOIoR YONs AUE Y| ayedjojyed JO

scpedea toyeoynsed stn 3Jo}6}UNCD Jo ‘9 640} ‘yey/2 ‘enss| ‘eyew

TVIOL OSLVWILSS | wdatene ams ure mentale haces eraray re 7 ee a ee abame kage pessenpen ee AOSTE) eUs AISUIMOUY OY Uosied AVY? ONINEVM

'SNUYN3Y

CIV'S'( BIHys AL Sys ‘3ove

TYP LION NAGY hy} vo :
_
D
Sass Mata NO NWOSE!
GaN WHELIG LOW aS WoSyoaHo |
: CBZol 4 O) AOAC |%
MSala TT OR | (Goz ee or) _adlITeRS].
Od hh} Pod SIS PVndy Csavos) ALM
a eee PEN % F 58
: : Loe
[2]
a re]
N S(VOLdWS OS | SW07 away | |
sie eres ek MUN er ree RRS SN Spee 93d
sob

V7] oO
ye NN

L

aLVO

ph 20(L bl¢ 2190

BOAW3S ONLEXUVN TYEMLINOAUOY

AFTIdNVX4A

ldILYBO NOILOSdSNI

BYPLINOWOY_JO INSKULYd30 ‘S$ "1

Appendix Il - iii


Three ill-shaped melons of round type illustrated
above are not permitted in U.S. No. 1 grade

Ilustration WAT 3

10


SAMPLE FRESH PRODUCTS BRANCH FORM FV-184
sorucucrunat wannerwta Semace EXAMPLE 3

FRUIT ANO VEGETABLE DIVISION

FEDERAL: ‘STATE INSPECTION CERTIFICATE I SUBLOT

Bubba's MELWS Liarsville,@4. [ —
INSPECTION POINT: same AS RPPLICARE [OTHER 10: PoE 77/3
poe 2087 Gh" Sea To Trailer

Appice eel is Tange eT J 121.44 lds

wo APD welow os wr spAnAle AVE {3 O7 Average
Ext0e WEE Por eTrrMnptes fivet © fo
meseolb> Scars pnd net fair ly well

fotmed. No decay

- Soer “cereal 118251 —
nn: wostly 14-Sote 2316S ave Zr49 |,

“=: SABOVE= PRODUCTS “MEET: REQUIREMENTS “OF MARKETING ORDER

PRODUCT: a -NUMBER:-OF CONTAINERS. “ARE PROVIDED BY: THE APPLICANT. “AND: ARE NOT. BEING CERTIFIED. BY THE INSPECTOR UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED.
DATA REMARKS : d hi Fi

CORRECTS FV: 184 eee 7 Roon asin pe 4 Pe

a oe

Ls the “undersigned, ‘a <duly authorized” inspector of the United States
Department of Agriculture, do. hereby certify that samples of the
rein described product were inspected. andthe grades ‘as “shown

by said. samples: were''as herein stated.

U} — 7 hott ESTIWATEO TOTAL
INSPECTOR'S SIGNATURE DATE ISSUED

Appendix II - viii

FV-184 (10.931 (Previous versions may be used)


than three pounds below the stated average, and melons averaging 30 pounds or more
shall not vary more than five pounds below the stated average. Please consult Table II
in the standards under SIZE § 51.1976 for specific examples.

Computing Average Weight

Computing the average weight on a lot of watermelons is easiest when the range
of weights is recorded horizontally on a separate sheet of paper, beginning
approximately eight pounds below the expected average and continuing to
approximately eight pounds above (refer to the Weight and Tally Sheet Example on
page 9). As the melons are weighed, record the weight to the nearest % pound in the
appropriate column. When all melons have been weighed, add each vertical column of
figures. Add these figures and divide by the number of melons weighed. This gives the
average weight of the melons. The tally sheet must be attached with all other
inspection notes.


scored when affecting over 2 inches in diameter and the underlying flesh is
watersoaked.

Bruising is generally the result of rough handling. When reporting bruising,
always include the affected portion of the melon (ends or sides) and the location within
the lot or load.

Transit Rubs (C)

Watermelons, if in repeated contact with portions of the truck, container, or other
melons, are susceptible to discolored abrasions or “rubs.” The color of these rubbed
areas can range from tan to black. Lighter skinned melons, due to a thinner, more
tender rind, are more likely to be affected than other types.

Transit rubs must exceed an aggregate area of 5 square inches and be at least
medium brown color as depicted on the color comparator for damage with serious
damage occurring over 12 square inches of medium brown color (based on a 25
pound melon). Always report the location of the rubbed area on the melon as well as
the location in the container or truck, such as; “Transit rubs occurring on sides of
melons in contact with trailer walls.”

Please refer to the Official Color Comparator WML-PL-1 for an example of medium
brown color.

Sunburn (C)

If vine cover is insufficient in the field, watermelons may be affected by sunburn.
Generally, the upper side of the melon is affected due to direct exposure to the sun’s
rays. Melons may also be affected by sunburn when shipped in open-top trucks and
trailers. Sunburn causes a yellow or brownish discoloration of the rind and usually turns
the epidermis hard and dry.

To be scorable, sunburned areas must be greenish-yellow which means a
predominately yellow color. Watermelons are considered damaged by sunburn when
the affected area is more than 9 square inches and seriously damaged by sunburn
when the affected area is more than 12 square inches (based on a 25 pound melon).

Sunscald (C)

Sunscald is characterized by brownish or bleached white to blackened areas
where the sun’s rays have been concentrated by water droplets causing severe burning
of the tissues. Sunscald, in any amount, is scored against all grades as serious
damage.

19


a
TOF.
2

oe

GENTIFICATION, —
Ee

Carrier No. Stated by :

Additional Lot ID. :

Inspection Completed:

Santer Type Tame? mm dd y y Hour Min. = AIP.
Vested Trai Ler. 0,811,619, 7 || 1,1 :0,0||A|m

Refrigeration Unit: Doors: REAR APPLICANT:

(porter | oven Beh cased) Peopoce Usa co

Condition of Carrier: ~ Address:

WASH/NGTON DC

Vents Closed 20 Melon Inc

Inspection Site : AvpL ICAN $6 dock Meares: My AM " FL

> PROOLET:

** WaTeemelons

BRANDS / MARKS:

33 WOL6s N- Round ty pei bo Lk

TEMPERATURES :

79° +5 92°R Ne Erand ~

Bar : anu ve reese svinucnenemonssarneneasaussnasensiacsendiiéi#83 898985 sE rep ememun

8 Watermelons

“OO0D1be LONG GRAY Yy pe WN bole

pase | ve Brand ”

NUMBER’ of CONTAINERS: * 2 WP! COUNT”

Condition’ of Load & Containers :
( ) STACKED ON PALLETS AT ABOVE LOCATION x INTACT THROUGH LOAD ( ) PARTLY UNLOADED

leneTHwise BStolOrows, JOte/2 Layers, Lot A iw reAR

Piy wood Sheets between Lots

FORM FV-300-N (3-93) Appendix II - iv


deiek

Revised, February 2007, HU-152-19(a),
Page iii, Table of Contents, Watermelons, Shipping Point
and Market Inspection Instructions, June 1998

(10) Quality (Q) and Condition (C): .ccc.cccsescsicsscacosnensuancessevssncansensssanenecnssevssinensrnenrsnensnane 11
Maturity (Q) se
Internal Quality OPTIONAL (Q) 12
Clean (Q).....
Shape (Q)....
Firmness (C)...
Immature (Q)..
Overripe (C)....
Watersoaked Flesh (C).
Second Growth (Q) we
Hail, Scars and Rind Worm Injury (Q) . 16
Whiteheart (Q)....
Hollow Heart (Q).
Discolored Spots in the Flesh
Anthracnose (C)....
Surface Bumps (C)
Bruising (C)
Transit Rubs (C) .
Sunburn (C)....
Sunscald (C)...
Internal Rind Spot (C)
Seedless Watermelons (Q)
Soft Ends (C)
Decay (C).

(11) Grade

(12) REMARKS sa cevesercnes onsersveaneeeen ceuesceseasninesessnnesnanestunpamesnepseesnntapacenrnesamtnennesees torpensnemecennasie 21

Appendix | - U.S. Standards for Grades of Watermelons

Appendix Il - Certificate and Notesheet Examples

iii

eee


Shapes of Long Type Watermetons

Permissible in the U.S. No. 1 Grade

Permissible in the U.S. No. 2 Grade

Cull. Not Permissible in U.S. No. 2 Grade

Illustration WAT 1


Scorable second growth is considered serious damage because the affected
areas of flesh are often poorly colored and do not meet the fairly sweet requirement.

Hail, Scars and Rind Worm Injury (Q)

A watermelon is considered damaged if the aggregating hail marks, rind worm
injury, or scar(s) exceed 5 square inches and seriously damaged when exceeding 12
square inches (based on a 25 pound melon).

Shipping point locations are more likely to be exposed to these defects than the
markets. These defects are generally graded out prior to shipment and are rarely seen
in a scorable amount at the market.

Rind Worm injury is caused by insect feeding of the rind epidermis. Affected
areas are whitish to light brown generally with an irregular pattern.

Please refer to the Official Visual Aid Photograph and 2X2 Slides and for
illustrations of scars, hail damage and rind worm injury.

Whiteheart (Q)

Melons affected by Whiteheart have a hard, white streak of flesh extending
through the heart. Whiteheart can be distinguished from immaturity because the streak
is hard and the line of demarcation between the red flesh and white center is much
more distinct in affected melons than those that are immature.

Externally, melons affected with Whiteheart may have a certain pointedness,
constriction, or flattening toward the stem end, particularly noticeable on long type
melons. Damage by Whiteheart is not entirely a matter of waste; flavor of the melons is
also impaired to a degree.

To determine the extent of injury, make a crosswise cut through the center of the
melon at right angles to a line from stem to blossom end. If a tough, solid streak
through the center of the melon exceeds a circle % inch in diameter, it is scored as
damage by Whiteheart. Serious damage by Whiteheart is scored when the tough, solid
streak exceeds a circle % inch in diameter.

Do not confuse various white thread-like strings as Whiteheart. These strings
may be found in many varieties of melons under certain growing conditions and are not
considered a defect.

Please refer to the Official Visual Aid 2X2 Slides for illustrations of Whiteheart.

Hollow Heart (Q)

Hollow heart is caused by a rapid burst of growth usually following rainfall. Large
melons seem more susceptible to hollow heart, however, it can also occur in small

16


Appendix |

U.S. Standards



Discolored Spots in the Flesh

Any aggregate amount greater than listed below should be scored as damage

White Spots Brown Spots
Outside Seed Area- 1 inch Outside Seed area - % inch
Inside - % inch Inside - % inch

Serious damage is scored when amounts of discoloration seriously detract from
the appearance of the melon.

Anthracnose (C)

Anthracnose initially appears as small, raised watersoaked spots with yellowish-
centers, giving the melon surface somewhat of a pimpled appearance. The areas later
become sunken and pitted, turn creamy to black color, and eventually contain pink
spore masses. The spots enlarge slowly and coalesce, infecting a large portion of the
surface.

Watermelons affected by Anthracnose deteriorate very rapidly. For this reason,
melons with a recognizable spot(s) shall be scored as serious damage against the
restricted tolerance for Anthracnose.

Anthracnose shall be reported as decay only when advanced sufficiently to
penetrate the rind; or when spots are large and soft enough to be easily penetrated with
finger pressure. Anthracnose Rot is always scored against the 1% shipping point
decay tolerance and the 2% market decay tolerance, not the restricted serious damage
tolerance for Anthracnose.

**Please refer to the Official Visual Aid 2X2 Slide for an illustration of Anthracnose.

Surface Bumps (C)

Occasionally, watermelons will be affected by light brown to tan spots or slight
bumps which may resemble early stages of Anthracnose. The exact cause of these
spots is unknown. Do not score unless the appearance is materially or seriously
affected. Bumps or spots on the ground side of the melon can be large, watersoaked
or cracked and may be scored as damage or serious damage depending upon severity.

Bruising (C)

Side bruises are scored as damage when over 3 inches in diameter and sunken;
end bruises when over 2 inches in diameter and sunken. Serious damage is scored
when side bruises are more than 5 inches in diameter and sunken, or soft and spongy
with the underlying flesh watersoaked. Serious damage by bruising on the ends is

18


Two melons of round type illustrated
above are permitted in U.S. No. 1 grade

{llustration WAT 2


bowl. Thoroughly mix the juice of all plugs and dip a small amount of juice onto the
refractometer prism. Note the reading, clean the prism, re-mix the juice and take a
second reading. If both readings are within 0.2%, record the higher reading. If the two
readings vary by more than 0.2%, a third reading must be made. Thoroughly mix the
juice sample once again. Take the additional reading and record the average of the 3
readings for that melon on your notesheet. The notesheet should contain only one
reading per melon.

Report the range and average of the readings in the “OTHER” section on the
FV-300 or under “REMARKS” on the FV-184. A statement as to whether the lot meets
the requirements of “Good” or “Very Good Internal Quality” must be included in the
grade statement.

Example: OTHER or REMARKS: Internal quality test ranges from
6.5% to 10.7%, average 8.5% soluble solids
(reported at applicant’s request).

GRADE: U.S. No.1, Good Internal Quality

Clean (Q)

The state of cleanness shall be noted as clean or fairly clean based on the
appearance of the lot. Dirt or mud which materially affects the appearance of the melon
causes “damage by dirt.” Occasionally, when harvested in rainy conditions, caked dirt
or mud will adhere to the melon, but rarely severe enough to score.

Shape (Q)

Melons must be Fairly Well Formed in the U.S. No. 1 grade and Not Badly
Misshapen in the U.S. No. 2 grade. Refer to the illustrations on pages 7, 8, and 9 of
the watermelon standards that illustrate shapes permissible in each grade. When
melons do not meet the basic requirements of shape, these melons shall be reported
as “not fairly well formed” or “badly misshapen” based on the grade.

Firmness (C)

Firmness, in the case of watermelons, refers to the resistance of the rind to
pressure, not firmness of the flesh. Melon ripeness, however, will influence the
firmness of the rind. Melons that have reached advanced stages of ripeness will feel
“springy” due to the flesh softening near the rind surface.

Firmness shall be described by the following terms:

Firm: The watermelon is firm to the touch and does not give readily to
normal pressure.

13


§51.1974 Application of Tolerances
TABLE |

Maximum number of defective watermelons permitted in any sample

Lot tolerance Total number of melons
(percent) per 20 count sample

(5) NOTESHEET AND CERTIFICATE

Entries on the notesheet and certificate are to be kept in a legible and accurate
manner. Notations shall be recorded so anyone familiar with inspection procedures can
interpret and write a certificate. When the inspection is complete, it is the responsibility
of the inspector to ensure all information is properly recorded.

Headings on Notesheets

Detailed instructions pertaining to date, inspection point, place of inspection, type
of carrier, lading, etc., which are not covered in these instructions may be found in the
General Inspection Instructions. Additional information and instructions may be given
by your supervisor.

Handwritten Certificates

The handwritten certificate, (FV-184 at shipping point and FV-300 at market)
should be written with great care since they are given to the applicant at the completion
of the inspection.

Please refer to the FV-184 of FV-300 certificate handbooks and your immediate
supervisor for complete instructions regarding the procedures to follow when writing
certificates.


§51.1983 Serious damage.

“Serious damage" means any specific defect described in §51.1986, Table IIL, or an equally
objectionable variation of any one of these defects, any other defect, or any combination of
defects, which seriously detracts from the appearance, or the edible or marketing quality of the

watermelons.

§51.1984 Permanent defects.

“Permanent defects" means defects which are not subject to change during shipment or storage;
including, but not limited to scars, hollow heart or immature watermelons.

§51.1985 Condition defects.

“Condition defects" means defects which are subject to change during shipment or storage,
including but not limited to decay, Anthracnose or sunburn.

§51.1986 Classification of defects.

Table DI

Factor

Damage

Serious damage’

Hail, rind worm injury scars and
other similar defects except
Anthracnose.

Whiteheart.....

Hollow heart...

Internal rind spot...

Area exceeds 9 sq. in. (58 sq. cm)
of greenish-yellow sunburn of a
25-Ib. (11.3 kg) watermelon.

Aggregating more than 5 sq. in. (32
sq. cm) on a 25-Ib. (11.3 kg)
watermelon.

A hard white streak of flesh
extending through the heart of the
watermelon exceeding a circle 1/4
in. (6 mm) in diameter.

Cracks aggregating more than 1-1/4
in. (33 mm) in width on a 25-Ib.
(11.3 kg) long-type watermelon or
the aggregate width exceeds 2 in.
(51 mm) on a 25-Ib. (11.3 kg)
round-type watermelon.

Aggregate area exceeds a circle 1
in. (25 mm) in diameter.

Area exceeds 12 sq. in. (77 sq. cm)
of greenish-yellow sunbum on a
25-Ib. (11.3 kg) watermelon.

Aggregating more than 12 sq. in.
(77 sq. om) on a 25-Ib. (11.3 kg)
watermelon.

A hard white streak of flesh
extending through the heart of the
watermelon exceeding a circle 1/2
in. (13 mm) in diameter.

Cracks aggregating more than 1-1/2
in. (38 mm) in width on a 25-Ib.
(11.3 kg) long-type watermelon or
the aggregate width exceeds 2-1/2
in. (64 mm) on a 25-Ib. (11.3 kg)
round-type watermelon.

Aggregate area exceeds a circle of
1-1/2 in. (38 mm) in diameter or
when any spot penetrates the flesh.

‘The following defects are considered serious damage when present in any degree: Sunscald, immaturity,

Anthracnose, overripe and decay.


latter amount not more than | percent shall be allowed for watermelons which are affected by
Whiteheart, Sunscald, Anthracnose or decay.

(2) En route or at destination. 10 percent for watermelons which fail to meet the requirements
of this grade: Provided, That included in this amount not more than the following percentages
shall be allowed for defects listed:

(i) 8 percent for watermelons having permanent defects including therein not more than 4 percent
for permanent defects causing serious damage. 7

(ii) 8 percent for watermelons having condition defects including therein not more than 4 percent
for condition defects causing serious damage and included in this latter amount not more than 2
percent shall be allowed for watermelons affected by Whiteheart, Sunscald, Anthracnose or
decay.

(b) U.S. No. 1.

(1) For defects at shipping point.” 10 percent for watermelons which fail to meet the
requirements of this grade: Provided, That included in this amount not more than 5 percent shall
be allowed for defects causing serious damage: And provided further, That included in this
latter amount not more than 3 percent shall be allowed for watermelons affected by Anthracnose
and not more than 1 percent shall be allowed for watermelons affected by decay.

(2) En route or at destination. 12 percent for watermelons which fail to meet the requirements
of this grade: Provided, That included in this amount not more than the following percentages
shall be allowed for defects listed:

(@ 10 percent for watermelons having permanent defects including therein not more than 5
percent for permanent defects causing serious damage.

(ii) 10 percent for watermelons having condition defects including therein not more than 5
percent for Anthracnose or other condition defects causing serious damage and included in this
later amount not more than 2 percent shall be allowed for watermelons affected by decay.

(c) US. No. 2.

(1) For defects at shipping point.’ 10 percent for watermelons which fail to meet the
requirements of this grade: Provided, That included in this amount not more than 6 percent shall
be allowed for watermelons affected by Anthracnose and not more than 1 percent shall be
allowed for watermelons affected by decay.

(2) En route or at destination. 12 percent for watermelons which fail to meet the requirements
of this grade: Provided, That included in this amount not more than 2 percent shall be allowed
for watermelons affected by decay.

Application of Tolerances

§51.1974 Application of tolerances.

In order to meet the requirements of a specified grade the average percentage of defective
watermelons in the lot, based on sample inspection, shall be within the tolerance specified, and

?Shipping point, as used in these standards, means the point of origin of the shipment in the producing area or at

port of loading for ship stores for overseas shipments, or, in the case of shipments from outside of the continental
United States, port of entry into the United States.


seek

Revised, December 1999, HU-144-17(a)
Page 2, Watermelons, Shipping Point and Market
Inspection Instructions, June 1998

Small Lots (Market only)

If the entire lot consists of less than 40 melons, it will not be possible to
apply the application of tolerance tables as specified in the standard. All melons
in the lot will be the sample, with percentages based on the total number of
melons. There will be no averages or range of defects shown on the certificate.
In the “Offsize/Defects” section of the FV-300, list the defects (scars, bruising,
decay, etc.) with the corresponding percentages in the “average defects”
columns. However, cross out the word “average” leaving only the word “defects”,
since there will be no averages.

No grade statement can be made since sampling cannot be done
according to the standard. Therefore, the following phrase should be entered in
the “Grade” section of the certificate: “Lot contains an insufficient number of
melons to determine grade.”

Sampling for Internal Defects

During examination for external defects, inspectors should note any
indications of internal defects; a dull, flat sound when slapped, lack of normal
circumference, flat sides, and bumpy or ridged appearance of the rind, etc.
Watermelons that exhibit these or other external indications of internal defects
should be carefully examined and cut for internal defects. Cut the most
suspicious melons. If no internal defects are found, no more melons in this
sample should be cut. If internal defects are found, continue cutting until no
more defects are found. Repeat this procedure for each sample taken.

The number of melons cut for internal defects is discretionary and based
on factors such as type of melon, growing conditions, time of year and external
characteristics of possible internal problems. Caution should be exercised to
avoid unnecessary cutting and destruction of melons. Inspectors are required to
cut as many melons as necessary in order to truly determine the internal quality.
Defect percentages MUST be based on the total melons in each sample (20) and
not the number of melons cut.

Cutting For Internal Defects

When cutting for maturity and Whiteheart, ALWAYS make a crosswise cut
at the center of the melon. When cutting for hollow heart, lengthwise and
crosswise cuts may be performed depending on the orientation of the crack (the
crosswise cut should generally be performed first). Multiple cuts on the melon
may also be necessary to determine the greatest width of the hollow heart crack.
Lengthwise or crosswise cutting is also permissible for Internal Rind Spot.


seek

Revised, February 2007, HU-152-19(b),
Page 1, Watermelons, Shipping Point
and Market Inspection Instructions, June 1998

(1) General

Watermelons grown and marketed today come in a variety of shapes and sizes
with different flesh and rind characteristics. Domestically grown melons are heavily
shipped from April to September and melons from Mexico and Caribbean countries are
imported primarily in the winter months. The heaviest inspection volume on
watermelons is still during the late Spring and Summer months, but availability in the
marketing chain is practically year-round.

All watermelon types, including seedless, may be certified as to grade. Red-flesh
types must also meet flesh color maturity requirements. Please refer to the Maturity
section for specific details.

(2) Sampling

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.

Samples for Grade Determination

Tolerances in the watermelon standards are determined on the basis of
20 count samples. A minimum of five-20 count samples must be examined when
inspecting a full load of watermelons. When inspecting a bulk load, these five samples
must be obtained by digging separate holes and removing 20 contiguous melons from
each hole. Melons of at least three samples must be obtained below the upper three
layers of the load.

Every effort should be made to perform unrestricted inspections on bulk loads.
In order for bulk load sampling to be considered unrestricted, at least two sample holes
must extend to the floor. If this is not possible, a restricted certificate must be issued
provided, at least the upper four layers of the load are accessible and sampled.

Individual cartons typically contain less than 20 melons. In this case, a sufficient
number of adjoining cartons must be opened to obtain the 20 count sample. When
sampling melons from bulk bins, 20 melons are to be taken from both the upper and
lower layers of the bin to ensure adequate representation of all parts of the bin. eee


Fairly firm: The watermelon gives readily to normal pressure. Melons in this
state are generally overripe.

Immature (Q)

No single external factor can be cited in all cases as a definitive indication
of watermelon immaturity. External characteristics may give only an indication of
maturity and should be supplemented with cutting and tasting to accurately
determine maturity or immaturity of a lot.

The following are possible external indications of immaturity on
watermelons:

A clear, white color on the ground side or “belly” of the melon. Do
not confuse this with a washed out or bleached appearance from
sun exposure;

Easier fingernail penetration on the ground side compared to
mature melons;

A lack of normal circumference;

A glassy, pea-green color at the blossom end extending to stem
end with no break to a yellowish-green or mature color;

Abnormal slenderness of long varieties and wide, shallow grooves
extending lengthwise, particularly on “gray” types;

Sharply defined veins on striped types as opposed to “scrambling”
of veins on mature melons;

Slickness of flesh immediately surrounding the seeds and giving
the inside of the seed cavity a watersoaked or bruised appearance;
Seeds near the ends of melons not plump and dark;

Lighter green shade than when mature on solid dark green types,
particularly at the blossom end;

Generally hard flesh with little characteristic red or other varietal
color; and,

A whitish-colored center or heart with flesh not fairly sweet.

Melons clipped immature can develop a good shade of red color in several
days, but will not increase in sugar content. These melons will have wilted or
dead stems and a tough, hard heart with slickness of the flesh against the seeds
and little or no taste. Immature melons are scorable as serious damage against
all grades.

14


SUMMARY OF TOLERANCES conTINUED

En Route / Destination No.1 No.2
(percent)

A. Total Defects 12 12

1. Permanent Defects 10 12
(included in A)

2. Condition Defects 10 12
(included in A)

(a) Serious damage by 5 12

permanent defects

(included in 1)

(b) Serious damage by 5 12
condition defects
(included in 2)

(c) Decay 2 2
(included in (b)

(4) Application of Tolerances

The sample tolerances for defects in the watermelon standards are based on
Table I which specifies the maximum number of defective melons permitted for each
tolerance, based on a 20 count sample.

If defects in a lot are within the average tolerances of the grade, and defects in
any individual sample do not exceed the number of watermelons specified in Table / for
each tolerance, the lot will meet the requirements for the grade being applied.


Revised, February 2007, HU-152-19(c),
Page 20, Watermelons, Shipping Point and Market
Inspection Instructions, June 1998

Internal Rind Spot (C)

This disease is also known as “Bacterial Rind Necrosis.” It is generally
associated with melons that have been subjected to prolonged drought while maturing.
This disease is recognized by tan to brown, hard and dry tissue of the internal rind that
seldom extends into the edible flesh. In severe cases, the outer rind surface may be
pebbled or have slightly sunken spots.

Internal Rind Spot is scored as damage when the aggregate area exceeds a
circle 1 inch in diameter, serious damage is scored when the aggregate area exceeds
a circle 1%2 inch in diameter or if any spot penetrates into the edible flesh. A lengthwise
cut for determining severity is permitted for Internal Rind Spot in order to visually
expose as much rind as possible.

**** Seedless Watermelons (Q)

§51.1982 “Seedless watermelons” are watermelons which have 10 or
less mature seeds, not to include pips/caplets, on the face of the
melon which has been cut into four equal sections (one lengthwise
cut and one crosswise cut).

When encountering seeded melons in a seedless lot report as a quality factor as
“Seeded melons.” Inspectors are required to cut as many melons as necessary in order
to truly determine the internal quality. Melons shall be cut in four equal sections (one
lengthwise cut and one crosswise cut). Count the exposed seeds on the faces (vertical
and horizontal) of all “quarters.” Defect percentages MUST be based on the total
melons in each sample (20) and not the number of melons cut. Report seed count in
the following manner in the “OTHER?” section of the FV-300 or in the “REMARKS”
section of the FV-184.

Example: 5% of cut melons show more than 10 seeds brown to black in color on
the face of the melon. eee

Soft Ends (C)

It is not uncommon to find this defect in some degree on long type melons of the
Charleston Gray (long gray) and Jubilee (long striped) families. Melons of these
hybrids can have a rind thickness of 3/4 inch on the sides and only 1/16 inch at the
blossom end. Other melon types are not as susceptible to soft ends due to a thicker
rind.

Watermelons are scored as damaged by soft ends if the end yields readily to
slight palm pressure or when shriveling is associated with the soft end. It will be
inappropriate to score serious damage by this defect because the standards defines
damage only.

Revised, February 1999, HU-141-11(a)
20


USD.
ae

United States
Department of
Agriculture

Agricultural
Marketing
Service

Fruit and
Vegetable
Division

Fresh Products
Branch

Watermelons

Shipping Point and Market
Inspection Instructions



SAMPLE FRESH PRODUCTS BRANCH FORM FV-184
U2. OGPARTMENT OF AORICULTURE EXAMPLE 4

AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE
FRUIT ANO VEGETABLE DIVISION

FEDEBAL STATE NSPECTION CERTIFICATE

©) sustot

‘CITY! STATE:

MoeAles, Az. —
Tieson AZ. PN FOF 15299

aa INOTESHEET NO=

clos Head Produce Lve.
SET S7ArE FARMERS MKF
ne” CHK. Z aes | 17993 ar

REAR Long Striped 7
Sj2e Not @ Pe 5 ar

Applicants feques7_

the. undersigned, a .duly authorized ‘inspector “of the. United States
|| Depaciment:. of Agriculture, do. hereby “cértify that samples of ‘the
herein described product were inspected and the grades ‘as Showa
by said samples were -as herein stated. or AT

Ke. $
ESTIMATED TOTAL

ool Dee Wihensho 891 |
$ = INSPECTORS SIGNATURE DATE ISSUED _

FV-184 (10-03) (Previous versions may ba uzed]
Appendix II - x



(6) Condition of Pack
When watermelons are shipped in bulk, a “pack” description does not apply.

Watermelons packed in cartons generally have dividers between the melons.
Pack tightness shall be judged by the amount of area taken up by the melons between
the dividers. If there is no movement, the pack would be considered “Tight.” If there is
slight movement within the carton, the pack is “Fairly Tight.”

When watermelons are shipped in cartons or bins, the following terms shall be
used to describe pack:

Very tight: The pack is so tight that there is an abnormal bulge, chafing or
rubbing in the packaging.

Level full: Melons are level with the top edge of the bin.

Tight or well filled: The pack is sufficiently filled to prevent movement of the
melons.

Fairly tight or fairly well filled: Not quite so firmly packed as “Tight” or “Well
Filled” but allowing slight movement of the melons in the container when filled to
within % inch of the top.

Slack: The pack is very loose. Always report the amount of slackness in inches
or fractions of inches when using the term “Slack.”

Count Per Carton

Watermelons packed in cartons may be marked as to count. Report conformity
or non-conformity to marked count under the “OTHER?” section of the FV-300 and the
“DESCRIPTION of PRODUCT” section of the FV-184.

(7) Temperature of Product

Inspectors do not normally determine or report temperatures at shipping point.
However, due to the importance of pulp temperatures of fresh fruits and vegetables
when in transit or at destination, it is essential that the inspector accurately report the
temperature and range in temperatures on each lot. Pulp temperatures shall be
recorded on all lots regardless of location, whether in a warehouse, conveyance, or
stacked on the platform.

Please refer to the General Inspection Instructions for additional information on
temperature procedures.


Product

“WATERMELONS” shall be used to describe this commodity in the "PRODUCT"
section on notesheets and certificates. Do not note the type or variety in the
“PRODUCT” section on either certificate. Inspectors may describe the type of
watermelons in the “OTHER” section on the FV-300 or under “REMARKS” on the
FV-184; such as: “yellow-flesh type”; “striped type”, “round green type”, long gray type,”
etc.

Mixing varieties within the same lot is not permitted and should be scored as
dissimilar varieties. If an obvious segregation is apparent between them, do not score.
When this is the case, the lot or load would contain more than one lot.

Number/Type of Containers

The number of containers, or melons/weight (when in bulk), shall always be
reported. The count of large lots certified in a warehouse or on a platform may be
reported on the notesheet in the “Brands/Markings” section. Count of large lots located
in a warehouse or on a platform may be reported on the authority of someone other
than the inspector. However, the inspector is responsible for assuring that the
approximate number of containers reported in the lot are present. Small lots (100
containers or less) that can be counted with accuracy are to be reported on the
inspector's authority as “inspector's count.”

Brands/Markings

The brand, variety, size, count, point of origin and other important information
appearing on the container should be reported on the notesheet in the
“Brands/Marking” section. Only the brand name and other pertinent information should
appear in the section of the certificate. Watermelons can be shipped several different
ways; bulk trucks and trailers, bins, and cartons. If loaded in a bulk truck or trailer, “No
Brands” shall be noted.

Origin

The inspector should not make a positive statement concerning product origin on
their own authority. When container markings contain this information, it should be
quoted in the appropriate space on notesheets and certificates. This policy is
necessary because some firms may use one mark on the same product packed in
several States. The inspector can certify only to the marks and has no means of
knowing what State or country the watermelons are grown. If packages are not marked
or the melons are in bulk, refer to the General Inspection Instructions for more
information.


ejejosqo ory yous (60-1) OOC-AS PLY (99-7) Cogs WMH (9/011 CE “AJ NUOS
“Yjog 10 JBOA BVO VEY

you Jo

[ —_ 8 Ae HAY

AEG

(ff)
AAAI wae aaa aaa

seunyrouby jo

jy
TParvie Ujeseg FF arom TaN Pres Aq UNOYE vw COmypUCD (pu Tiyend ox PUY i plom yonpord pogo Fp Ut
ipecnky re re icmp de poubrumpun may] A912) (BUS

QJOW JOU Jo} UoWUOSLdL] JO OOO'LS VEU) e/OW
1} B 0} OR[Ans S| ‘sUdIOe YOns hue

fe Zoumouy oum uosied UY ONINYVM

jolWed 10
nss| 'exew

WWLOL OSLVAILSS | autos tovlredyson is feonbal wig Aveo Laas oP

TSXUYNSY

“adn PRY

WASY ot |
sany s hy ive a m : (LG YF) Koa
HOS (IU APO HH GOM 9728 | CY O/H O) VSOVIVAHLNG
ZINE AKAD OVOT | (ZZYS) WAIN s/_19!
fo Cc : WOEY FOHD OF
SOUS PAVUVAPY Yi Nw! (ZGFHO) Awad | £0
TAY Oh 0) FOE ou FUE: (HAG O) AVIS |
_ CLEEFO) OF YUHO

S LMWOI Idd

pp POG Wy SO ow al 7
pp PLAID WY, SN] WA2,
eee sees if acne Q cccersesie hl Tha E
sor]
184009 nun voli

Caso SINAN — FACE CAND

yoy |

Ruse

2 FIdNVXA

BLVOMdILYIO NOILOZdSNI
3O1AUIS ONUSNYYH TVENLTILUOY
SUCUTIAUOY_ 90 LNSNIBYA3O ‘8°

Appendix Ul - vi


Table IL

Average Weight Minimum weight Tolerances permitted
(unless otherwise for melons below the
specified) minimum weight
(percent)
Pounds Kilograms
Pounds Kilograms

20 9.1 17 77 5
22 10.1 19 8.6 5
24 10.9 21 9.5 5
26 11.8 23 10.4 5
28 12.7 25 11.3 5
30 13.6 25 113 3
32 14.5 27 122 5
34 15.4 29 13.2 5
36 16.3 31 14.1 s
38 17.2 33 15.0 5
40 18.1 35 15.9 5
42 19.0 37 16.8 5

(b) In order to allow for variations incident to proper sizing, not more than 5 percent, by count, of
the watermelons in any lot may be below the minimum size requirements: Provided, That when
minimum and maximum weights are specified, not more than 5 percent, by count, may be below
the specified minimum weight and not more than 5 percent, may be above the specified
maximum weight.

Definitions :

§51.1977 Mature. .

“Mature" means that the watermelon has reached the stage of development at which the flesh is
at least fairly sweet and shows characteristic color of a mature watermelon for the variety.
§51.1978 Fairly well formed.

“Fairly well formed" means that the watermelons have characteristic shape but not necessarily
the perfect type of the variety. They may be tapered at the ends or slightly constricted.

§51.1979 Similar varietal characteristics.

“Similar varietal characteristics" means that the watermelons are similar in shape and color.
§51.1980 Overripe.

“Overripe" means that a watermelon has reached such an advanced stage of maturity that the
flesh becomes mealy, less juicy or has an insipid taste.

§51.1981 Badly misshapen.

“Badly misshapen" means that the watermelons are bottlenecks or gourdnecks.

§51.1982 Damage.

“Damage" means any specific defect described in §51.1986, Table III, or an equally objectionable
variation of any one of these defects, any other defect, or any combination of defects which
materially detracts from the appearance, or the edible or marketing quality of the watermelons.


the number of defective watermelons in individual samples in the lot shall be within the
limitations set forth in the following table:

Table I - Maximum Number of Defective Watermelons Permitted in Any Sample

Lot tolerance, percent Total!

He NNNWWAW

Number of watermelons per 20 count sample.

Sample for Grade and Size Determination

§51.1975 Sample for grade and size determination.

Each sample shall consist of 20 watermelons. When individual containers contain at least 20
watermelons, the sample is drawn from one container; when individual containers contain less
than 20 watermelons, a sufficient number of adjoining containers are opened to form a 20 count

sample.
Size
§51.1976 Size.

Size may be specified in terms of average weight, minimum weight or minimum and maximum
weight. :

(a) When the size of watermelons is stated in terms of average weight, unless otherwise
specified, the melons in any lot averaging less than 30 pounds (13.6 kgs.) shall not vary more
than 3 pounds (1.4 kgs.) below the stated average, and the melons in any lot averaging 30 pounds
(13.6 kgs.) or more shall not vary more than 5 pounds (2.3 kgs.) below the stated average.


Revised, December 1999, HU-144-17(b)
Page 3, Watermelons, Shipping Point and Market
Inspection Instructions, June 1998

Determining Seed Count OPTIONAL

Occasionally, an applicant may request seed count on a lot of “seedless”
watermelons. Rarely, if ever, will a variety of this type be totally seedless. The
inspection service, upon request, can certify seed count and report in general
terms. seek

Randomly select 10 melons and cut each in four equal sections (one
lengthwise and one crosswise cut). Count the exposed seeds on the faces of
each “quarter.” Keep a separate accounting of dark brown to black seeds versus
white to light brown seeds. Report seed count in the following manner in the
“OTHER’ section of the FV-300 or in the “REMARKS” section of the FV-184:

Example: Faces of cut quarters generally have 15 to 22 seeds per
melon, few with no seeds, with 3 to 10 seeds brown to
black, remainder white to light brown, reported at
applicant’s request.

(3) Summary of Tolerances

The tolerances and application of tolerances in the U.S. Standards for
Grades of Watermelons are applied on a COUNT basis.

Due to the lack of use of the U.S. Fancy grade, those tolerances are not
listed below. Please refer to the standards in the back of this handbook for a
complete listing of tolerances for the U.S. Fancy grade.

SUMMARY OF TOLERANCES

Shipping Point No.1 No.2

(percent)

A. Total Defects 10 10
1. Serious damage 5 -
(included in A)

2. Anthracnose 3 6
(included in 1)
3. Decay 1 1

(included in 1)


sizes as well. The external appearance of a melon with hollow heart can include
irregular, bumpy or prominently ridged appearance of the rind. Melons with a flat or
bulging appearance may also be questionable.

If hollow heart is suspected, make an initial crosswise cut at right angles to a
line from stem to blossom end. More than one cut may be necessary to determine the
full extent of the crack. Hollow heart cracks can also span the melon crosswise. If this
is the case, a lengthwise cut may also be necessary to accurately determine the width
of the crack. A lengthwise-oriented crack is by far the most common.

Damage by hollow heart on “long type” melons is scored when the aggregate
width of the crack(s) exceeds 1% inches and serious damage when exceeding 1%
inches. Damage by hollow heart on “round type” melons is scored when the aggregate
width of the crack(s) exceeds 2 inches; and serious damage when exceeding 2’2
inches. These scoring guides are based on a 25 pound melon. Melons weighing less
than 25 pounds would be allowed a lesser degree of cracking based on the following
table:

Any amount greater than listed below should be scored as damage

Long type Round type
20 to 24 Ibs - % inch 20 to 24 Ibs - 1% inch
15 to 19 Ibs - % inch 15 to 19 Ibs - 1 inch
14 Ibs and less - % inch 14 Ibs and less - % inch

When measuring hollow heart cracks, the greatest width is used, regardless of
the location within the melon. For multi-directional cracks radiating from the center of
the melon, measure the greatest width of each crack and add together to determine the
aggregate width.

Multi-directional
crack

Single crack

Please refer to the Official Visual Aid 2X2 Slides for illustrations of Hollow Heart.

Discolored Spots in the Flesh (Q)

Cottony-white to brown spots can occur in both immature and mature melons
and their location in the flesh will determine when they are scored. Spots that are
outside the seed area are less objectionable than those located among the seeds.
Additionally, spots that have turned brown may be more objectionable than those that
remain white. The following table contains the scoring guidelines for this defect:

17


as
EAZI 4

n
hee

U2

4
ey =

MBE

Se

Carrier No. Stated by :

AePLicant

oe al

Cron Chore

Additional Lot 1D. :
—~ Inspection Completed: =
Gani Type] Name m yy Hour Min. AIP
— 0, o|2,4|9,.7||0,9:0 O||A|m
Refrigeration Unit: Doors: APPLICANT:

Condition of Carrier:

unts fom MKE Branx NY

eat
Sucn-Ci ta PRoDUCE

Inspection Site : A pp) } cants Sto re

Address: Rio Dry; Az.

7 PRODUCT:

‘Waterwelons

BRANDS / MARKS :

"SOCnK-

SWS?! COUNT

yell llow 1

Cita" © COUNT,
esh, Pro duce 0

la

Condition of Load & Containers =
i STACKED ON PALLETS AT ABOVE LOCATION

(

) INTACT THROUGH LOAD ( ) PARTLY UNLOADED

FORM FV-300-N (3-93) A
ppe'

ndix Il - i


EXAMPLE 1

both
1

ptt tii
6 7

D

TT BRERT

“Veter”

PACK:

SS
oS
fr

G

PLI Number | 10. | TEMPE] oon [DK Kee Quals Y
NONE | NoNe| bly? | 20 2 Z /
~ |v (eT | 2 ° 3 o
vw | ~ |492? | 20 ) 3 °
“| ~ |? |2 ! 4 z
4 Y | | 2w ZL 3 r)

4 Ge Q ma
70 bye

uty

GN
|

ny
SS

¢d

CARLOT Basis :
HOURLY Basis :
TRAVEL Time:

Est TOTAL:

REPORTED TO: Joe

: we B18 A

INSPEGYED BY THe

“24-47

ASSISTED é

Appendix II - ii

U.S.Government Printing Office: 1994 - 384-084


United States Standards for Grades of Watermelons'

Grades
51.1970 U.S. Fancy.
51.1971 U.S. No. 1.
51.1972 U.S. No. 2.
Tolerances
51.1973 Tolerances.
Application of Tolerances
51.1974 Application of tolerances.
Sample for Grade and Size Determination
51.1975 Sample for grade and size determination.
Size
51.1976 Size.
Definitions
51.1977 Mature.
- 51.1978 Fairly well formed.
51.1979 Similar varietal characteristics.
51.1980 Overripe.
51.1981 Badly misshapen.
51.1982 Damage.
51.1983 Serious damage.
51.1984 Permanent defects.
51.1985 Condition defects.
51.1986 Classification of defects.
Optional Internal Quality Requirements
51.1987 Optional internal quality requirements.
Grades
§51.1970 U.S. Fancy.
"U.S. Fancy" consists of watermelons which meet the following requirements:
(a) Basic requirements:
(1) Mature;
(2) Similar varietal characteristics;
(3) Fairly well formed;
(4) Not overripe;
(b) Free from:
(1) Anthracnose;

‘Compliance with the provisions of these standards shall not excuse failure to comply with the provisions of the
Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act, or with applicable State laws and regulations. .

1


Defects noted with (C) are considered condition factors at market. Defects noted with
(Q or C) may be considered as quality or condition depending on the circumstances.
Factors with no notation are considered quality only.

Table of Contents
Section Page(s)

(1) General enh |
(2) Sampling afl
Represen e pling fl
Samples for Grade Determination Al
Small Lots... eee 2
Sampling for Internal Defects . 2
Cutting For Internal Defects... 2
Determining Seed Count OPTIONAL. 2
(3) Summary of Tolerances.........cceececceseeceeeeteeeeeeeeseeeeeeneeaeeeeeateeeaeeateeeeesseeaeeesseeneseeeanenees 3
(4) Application of Tolerances ........ccccccsessecsesseeseesseseeesaeeeeessaeseeseseaesseesesenseseseeeeeeeenee 4
(5) Notesheet and Certificate 0.0... eeesesesessesesseeeereeaeeeeeseanenetseneaeesaseessensaeeseeeeeeaes

Headings on Notesheets .
Handwritten Certificates ..
Product... cece
Number/Type of Containers
Brands/Markings.
Origin
(6) Condition of Pack..
Count Per Carton

(7) Temperature of Product...

Size Tolerances..
Range in Weight.
Variation in Weight ...
Computing Average Weight.
Weight/Tally Sheet EXAMPLE.

Abii ii ib bo bP bEiiidd
CODWDDDA NNN ODOOOUUMNUH


WS. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE

TRINT AO VEGETABLE OAASION EXAMPLE 4
FEDERAL - STATE INSPECTION NOTESHEET

wees Melon Hend frodece Tre" Noodles, Az | ———
rerecron S Tate Farmers MKE Tocseas, AZ |" PoF 15299
owe P..sTa7es 17993 Va“ Mech. AEF CSN "0: ——_

Produc I Vetiety, Number & Size of Contaiver, Description of Produd (Brand, Markings, Size, ic), Grade Marked:

DEFECTS: SIZE ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CWT:
J INCLUDING 7 ADOTONAL nescRienon oF MIN, MAX. FEE $

" TOLERANCES| neti DEFECTS ot $

i EXPENSES $
«| 8 3
a § MOSTLY ‘OTHER s g To ;
2 8 Pa 4 2
g1212 g 2| (8 REMARKS
D\!|oh\/lo Sun L
zolo |o|Ylo NP
2lolo|f\lo pe
21 | ial 0 SCR ger
20|0|0 ! (0) aA Ni 6.0
a er il
MIA

me

FV - 184-43 (2/94)

Appendix II - ix


M.D Ben ee US. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULT
STARTED: forlosay" : AGRICULTURAL WARKETING SERVICE EXAMPLE 3
M.M =D O-.Y.
courtetee, {0 [710 (31917 FEDERAL - STATE INSPECTION NOTESHEET
' Bubba's Melons amemTM J arsville,GA |" a
sere SAME AS APLUCAHE omer: Pp FF 91713
‘CONVEYANCE NO.: ST-2697 GA ‘TYPE: ofenToP TRai Lec CERTIFICATE NO: ————_ om
‘Product / Variety, Number & Size of Container, Description of Product (Brand, Markings, Size, etc.), Grade Marked:
d
OEFECTS: Ea ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Mw :
INCLUDING apna MIN, MAX, FEE ¢t
Zl Esra [rucrwces| recs on
o & EXPENSE
a 2 ka MOSTLY OTHER g g Wat :
$18 | E 2| [8 REMARKS
zo|l |e |\\/,o SCR
w{sle|\lo se [mis | 522
w|i le lf\lo See Ip ud
w|z[e lf \lo ASS DEA
wlelell Vo MIS
1 29)|  lasepak |SboZ Ws AG bu dlig,
to — CN a hee
ol Lis AVE
yy 113 114 | 2 [zs [zz]23_2¢ 25 | Stal Melws
1.00 1.50 195° ap? 212° 22.79 23° 247 25° A Total weight-1O747S-
11.50 18.50 4.5 a5? arF5 225° 935° 2475 & Ave.21.49/bs
18.50 19.15 2 21.75 22® 735° 24°
18,50 192 22 2129 22° 237° 242° Generally I'7% 25265,
192° 205° 21,75 22° 23° 5 mostly 19.50 te 23 Lbs,
Ww?” p17 225° 235° 4 Ave. 2).49 lés
50 00 200
wi? a? 22% 23: 4
215° 92% 235° 3 Ho under 18,50 16s.
naire we 2
na 4)
5o
(ap. |raee |as°?|193| 932 >|222rse927]25~|

FV 184-13 (2/94)

Appendix Il - vii


OL

‘aBeiene spunod gy'zz‘} ON SN ‘a3qvVYeo

“spunod gp'6| JepuN %y UM Spunod
8y'zz ebelene ‘spunod g/'¥z 0} 0Z Aysow ‘spunod ¢/'Gz 0} Gz'6| AlleseueD :3ZIS

ISMO]JOJ SE SPAI JO] BAOGE OY} J0j S}UaWA}e}S epesH pue oZIs OY

fo}
wo

On~nnnununwtrtrnnn

SNOTAW

spunod gp'zz - obeioAy

os'9z O01S O06)

St've

Seve

os'¥2

Slve

Seve

00've

glge O00'%”2

os'9e SZ@S2 00'”2

8% le 92 ETA ve

os'ez
glee
00°€%
SES
SLee
Se'ee
os"ez
Geet
os'€?
GLe?e?
00'€z

bd

0S'%2
SECS
0s'22
Gece
00°%2
0s'%z
TAA
00°%e
os'%e
GLUe
Stee

(44

SZ'YZLL - JUBIOM [2301
OS2S% SLSPZ SZOLL OS'LZL

OSs'lz
00°12
00°12
SOLS
SOLS
GLLe
Os’ Le
00'L2

Le

UHDISM FOVASAV - FTAWVX3)

00°02
Sle
0s'02
00°0¢
00°02
S702

02

L3SHS ATIVL GNV LHOISM

oo'6e SZ’8L

SL'6L
SZ6L SL8l

6b 8b Lb

TWLOL

9) JHSISM



Internal Quality (Q) OPTIONAL

The grade standards provide a definition for optional internal quality
requirements. Watermelons certified as having “Good” or “Very Good” internal quality
must have an average soluble solids of not less than 8% or 10% respectively.

The soluble solids test for internal quality of watermelons is used to determine
the approximate average sugar content of the lot. It is not to be used as a substitute
for procedures outlined in the “Maturity” section above.

A sample of at least 4 random watermelons on lots of 1200 melons or less will
be used for the soluble solids test. For lots containing more than 1200 melons, one
additional melon for every additional 300 melons in the lot will be selected. All melons
must be selected at random without regard to external indications of maturity or location
within the lot.

The following is a list of equipment needed to perform a soluble solids test:

1. Refractometer

2. Coring probe (long enough to penetrate the entire melon)
3. Knife

4. Garlic press

5. Bowl to hold juice
6. Spoon

7. Distilled water to “zero” the refractometer
8. Water and towel to clean refractometer

The refractometer must be clean to ensure an accurate reading. Care should be
taken not to scratch the prism surface. Properly adjust the refractometer to a “zero”
reading before testing the juice. This can be accomplished by cleaning the instrument
with water, drying the prism, and placing a drop of distilled water on the prism. A
properly calibrated refractometer will read zero when tested. Adjust or replace the
instrument as appropriate. Do not use tap water when calibrating the instrument.

Make sure you have a brightly lit working environment. The refractometer will be
very difficult to read in poor light.

Using the coring probe, take 3 plugs only from each watermelon, ensuring the
probe extends through the entire melon. Plugs should be taken from the stem end,
blossom end and center. When taking the end plugs on long-type melons, insert the
probe approximately 2 inches from each end. When testing round-type melons, a plug
1 inch from each end will be sufficient.

After obtaining the plugs, cut off and discard the rind where the flesh breaks to

whitish-pink or whitish-yellow color, ensuring that no white flesh remains. Place the
plugs in a garlic press or similar extractor and squeeze the juice from the plugs into a

12


Shipping Point and Market
Inspection Instructions for
Watermelons

These inspection instructions are specifically developed and designed by the
Fresh Products Branch to assist officially licensed inspectors in the interpretation and
application of the U.S. Standards for Grades of Watermelons, Section 51.1970.

These instructions do not establish any substantial rule not legally authorized by
the official grade standards. This publication supersedes any previously issued
inspection instructions.

Any portion of these instructions beginning with a section number such as §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 Watermelons are printed in
Appendix | of these instructions. All U.S. standards are administered and maintained by
the Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) and are available on the Internet under the
USDA, AMS homepage (www.ams.usda.gov).

Refer to General Inspection Instructions for additional information pertaining to
date, inspection point, carrier, condition of carrier, lading, etc. not covered in these
instructions. (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.)

June 1998

This replaces Market Inspection Instructions for Watermelons, dated January 1978, and
Shipping Point Inspection Instructions for Watermelons, dated March 1978.

[This publication may be duplicated without authorization from USDA.



Appendix Il

Certificate & Notesheet Examples



eee

Revised, February 2007, HU-152-19(d),
Page 21, Watermelons, Combined Shipping Point
and Market Inspection Instructions, June 1998

Soft ends should not be confused with damage by bruising occurring on the
ends. Do not report damage by bruised ends as “soft bruised ends” because this gives
the appearance of combining two separate defects.

Decay (C)

Do not score decay when affecting the stem only. This fact may be mentioned at
applicant's request. Decay affecting any other portion of the melon is scorable against
the 1% shipping point and 2% market tolerances. The most common types affecting
watermelons include Anthracnose Rot, Bacterial Fruit Blotch, Bacterial Soft Rot, Black
Rot, Blossom End Rot, Phytophthora Rot and Stem End Rot. Inspectors are not
required to name decays encountered on inspections. A description of the stages
(early, moderate or advanced) is required on all certificates.

(11) Grade

A statement shall be made in this section indicating whether or not the lot(s)
meet the requirements of the grade. Other specifications for which the application is
based and/or percentage of U.S. No. 1 quality may also be reported here.

Examples: U.S. No. 1, Good Internal Quality
U.S. No. 1, 25.50 pounds average.

(12) Remarks

Any explanatory or qualifying statements that are necessary to complete the
certificate should be made in this section. They may include one or more of the
following:

e Restrictions to load, size, or weight.

e Cross references to another certificate number such as in re-inspections,
appeals, etc.
Contract specifications.
Factors not affecting grade, reported at applicant’s request.

21

eek




Bruises.....

End yields readily to slight pressure
applied by palm of the hand or
shriveling is associated with the
soft end.

Aggregating more than 5 sq. in. (32
sq. cm) of medium brown
discoloration on a 25-Ib. (11.3 kg)
watermelon.

Side bruises over 3 in. (76.2 mm)
in diameter and sunken.

End bruises over 2 in. (50.8 mm) in
diameter and sunken.

Aggregating more than 12 sq. in.
(77 sq. cm) of medium brown
discoloration on a 25-Ib. (11.3 kg)
watermelon.

Over 5 in. (127 mm) in diameter
and sunken or soft and springy with
underlying flesh water-soaked.
Over 2 in. (50.8 mm) in diameter
with underlying flesh water-soaked.

'The following defects are considered serious damage when present in any degree: Sunscald, immaturity,

Anthracnose, overripe and decay.

Optional Internal Quality Requirements
§51.1987 Optional internal quality requirements.
The following internal quality requirements may be specified in connection with the grade.
(a) “Very good internal quality" means that the combined juice from the edible portion of a
sample of watermelons selected at random contains not less than 10 percent soluble solids as
determined by an approved refractometer.
(b) "Good internal quality" means that the combined juice from the edible portion of a sample of
watermelons selected at random contains not less than 8 percent soluble solids as determined by

an approved refractometer.


EXAMPLE 2
L |

PACK:

SY] BRERT

pitit
7

D

‘iher - .

PLU Number | 10. | TEMPE cunt DK Give Ant Bau
NONE |none |19° | 20 ° 0) NG 2)

Va v QGo° 20 1 4 \ i !

7 Y 142? | 20 o (0) y 3|6

v ~ | 85°| 20 1 7 |6@8)\ /\ 2.

v ~ | 88° | 20 it |S 7 \ )
a at : ob 39) (ah) A -scate, led!
Gr -AdV-|__\G08)
NoVE _|wone | 85° | 20 mC ome \ J

v | $3° | 2 EMICHE: z x

v vy |qg5°\mi| |2 4¢1@|ol 7 \

4 GO 4 tb G 2
\ 1 eR) 2

Lp! YP ) (70710) 7A Kk IP)

NS (Adv
~e

REMARKS / RESTRICTIONS / SPI

CARLOT Basis :
HOURLY Basis :
TRAVEL Time :

REPORTED TO: cA R RY

oate pie A ;

ope
henge ein

REQUESTED BY:

ATE:

Sle]

ASSISTED sy: ] iw

Appendix II - v

U.S.Government Printing Office: 1994 - 384-08¢


(2) Decay; -

(3) Sunscald;

(4) Whiteheart;

(©) Free from damage by any means. See §51.1982.

(d) For tolerances see §51.1973.

§51.1971 U.S. No. 1.

"U.S. No. 1" consists of watermelons which meet the following requirements:

(a) Basic requirements:

(1) Mature;

(2) Similar varietal characteristics;

(3) Fairly well formed;

(4) Not overripe;

(b) Free from:

(1) Anthracnose;

(2) Decay;

(3) Sunscald;

(©) Free from damage by any means. See §51.1982.

(d) For tolerances see §51.1973.

§51.1972 U.S. No. 2.

"U.S. No. 2" consists of watermelons which meet the following requirements:

(a) Basic requirements:

(1) Mature;

(2) Similar varietal characteristics;

(3) Not overripe;

(4) Not badly misshapen;

(b) Free from:

(1) Anthracnose;

(2) Decay;

(3) Sunscald;

(c) Free from serious damage by any means. See §51.1983.

(d) For tolerances see §51.1973.

Tolerances

§51.1973 Tolerances.

In order to allow for variations incident to proper grading and handling in each of the foregoing
grades, the following tolerances, by count, shall be permitted in any lot:

(a) US. Fancy.

(1) For defects at shipping point.’ 8 percent for watermelons which fail to meet the
requirements of this grade: Provided, That included in this amount not more than 4 percent shall
be allowed for defects causing serious damage: And provided further, That included in this

*Shipping points, as used in these standards, means the point of origin of the shipment in the producing area or at

port of loading for ship stores for overseas shipments, or, in the case of shipments from outside of the continental
United States, the port of entry into the United States.


(9) Size

If the applicant does not request size certification, it need not be determined and
the statement “Not determined” will suffice in this section on the notesheet. Size
certification is not a requirement of the watermelon grades.

Size is determined by weighing 50 melons and is separate from the 20 melon
sample used to determine quality and condition. If a lot contains less than 50 melons,
size may still be determined by weighing all available melons.

Generally, the weight range, average weight and an undersize statement is
reported on the certificate. If the weight range exceeds 10 pounds, a mostly statement
must also be given. The weight of individual melons is recorded in % pound
increments. The average weight for the lot is recorded in exact averages, such as
25.70 pounds, 32.15 pounds, etc.

Uniformity of Size In Cartons

When melons are packed in cartons, uniformity of size can be an important
factor. Watermelons will be considered “Uniform” in size if there is no more than a
three pound variation between the largest and smallest melon in the carton.
Watermelons are “Fairly Uniform” if there is no more than a four pound variation
between the largest and smallest melons. Cartons containing melons with more than a
four pound variation shall be reported as “Irregular.”

Size Tolerances

The watermelon standards provide a separate tolerance for both undersize and
oversize melons. Not more than 5% may be below the minimum size requirements.
When minimum and maximum sizes are specified, not more than 5% may be below a
specified minimum size and not more than 5% may be above a specified maximum size
(for a total of 10% offsize). These tolerances are based on the total number of melons
weighed for size and not the 20 melon sample examined for defects.

Range in Weight

Melon lots shall be considered “well-sized” when the size range does not exceed
8 to 12 pounds and not vary more than three to five pounds above or below the
average weight. If the weight range varies more than those listed above, inspectors
shall record the range and give a mostly statement. Example: Size ranges from 26 to
40 pounds, mostly 28 to 36 pounds, average 32 pounds with 5% under 27 pounds.

Variation In Weight

According to the watermelon standard, when size is stated as average weight,
unless otherwise specified, melons averaging less than 30 pounds shall not vary more


(10) Quality and Condition

Statements pertaining to maturity, firmness, amount and type of defects, and
decay are shown in the appropriate sections. Factors noted with the letter (C) shall be
reported as CONDITION on market certificates. Factors noted with the letters (Q or C)
may be considered as QUALITY or CONDITION, depending on the circumstances.
Factors noted with the letter (Q) are considered as QUALITY only.

Permanent defects (Quality) — defects not subject to change during shipment or
storage (Q).

Condition defects — defects which are subject to change during shipment or
storage (C).

Maturity (Q)

§51.1977 “Mature” means that the watermelon has reached
the stage of development at which the flesh is at least fairly
sweet and shows characteristic color of a mature watermelon
for the variety.

Maturity is the most important “Quality” factor in the certification of watermelons
and is impossible to determine without cutting. Inspectors should cut and taste a
sufficient number of melons to confirm their suspicions as to the internal quality (red
flesh color and sweetness). Care should be taken to ensure that only a minimum of
specimens be cut to make this determination.

The flesh color of mature red-flesh watermelons must be at least “pale red.” An
example of this color is provided on the Official Color Comparator WAT-CC-1. Please
refer to this visual aid when questions on minimum flesh color arise. Melons with less
color than the comparator shall be scored as immature. Flesh color of red types may
be described as good red, pale red, pink, whitish pink according to the facts. The term
“characteristic color” shall be used to describe flesh color of types other than red.
Melons may develop a darker shade of red or other characteristic color after clipping,
but the sugar content and eating quality will not improve.

Some external indications of a mature melon can include the following: creamy
or yellow color on the ground side of the melon; a filled out appearance with regard to
the circumference; rind color breaking from pea green at the blossom end to a natural
darker green color. Internally, flesh color and sweetness are the only definitive
factors to be considered when determining maturity.

11