Marketing and 

Regulatory 

Programs 

Agricultural 

Marketing 

Service 

Specialty 

Crops 

Program 

Specialty 

Crops 

Inspection 

Division 

Oranges and Grapefruit

Grown in Texas and 

States Other Than 

Florida, California, and 

Arizona 

Shipping Point and Market Inspection 

Instructions 

WORKING DRAFT – September 2022 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

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

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

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

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

Remedies and complaint filing deadlines vary by program or incident. 

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

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

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

other than English. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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 Shipping Point Inspection Instructions for Citrus Grown in 

Texas and States Other Than Florida, California and Arizona dated October 1978 and 

the Market Inspection Instructions Citrus Grown in Texas and States Other Than 

Florida, California and Arizona dated October 1969, and include, but not limited to, all 

previous correspondence, memos, inspection instructions, or procedures. 
THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SHIPPING POINT AND MARKET INSPECTION INSTRUCTIONS FOR ORANGES AND 

GRAPEFRUIT GROWN IN TEXAS AND STATES OTHER THAN FLORIDA, CALIFORNIA, 

AND ARIZONA 

SECTION PAGE NO. 

ORANGE IDENTIFICATION CHART ........................................................................................ 1 

PART I – ORANGES............................................................................................................ 2 

GENERAL.......................................................................................................................... 2 

IMPORT CERTIFICATION AT PORTS OF ENTRY ....................................................................... 2 

MARKETING ORDER 906 .................................................................................................... 2 

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

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

SHIPPING POINT........................................................................................................... 3 

MARKET ...................................................................................................................... 4 

SAMPLING BULK LOADS...................................................................................................... 4 

NUMBER OF SAMPLES ........................................................................................................ 5 

SHIPPING POINT........................................................................................................... 5 

MARKET ...................................................................................................................... 5 

SAMPLING FOR INTERNAL DEFECTS .................................................................................... 5 

CUTTING PLANS FOR INTERNAL DEFECTS ............................................................................ 7 

CUTTING INSTRUCTIONS AND SCORING GUIDE DRYNESS-MUSHY CONDITION ......................... 8 

TOLERANCES AND APPLICATION OF TOLERANCES ............................................................... 9 

TOLERANCES .................................................................................................................... 9 

SUMMARY OF TOLERANCES......................................................................................... 11 

APPLICATION OF TOLERANCES.......................................................................................... 12 

SUMMARY OF APPLICATION OF TOLERANCES ................................................................ 13 

NOTESHEET AND CERTIFICATE ......................................................................................... 14 

PRODUCT........................................................................................................................ 14 

CLASSIFICATION OF ORANGES..................................................................................... 15 

NUMBER/TYPE OF CONTAINERS ........................................................................................ 15 

BRANDS/MARKINGS ......................................................................................................... 16 

SHIPPING POINT......................................................................................................... 16 

MARKET .................................................................................................................... 16 

ORIGIN ........................................................................................................................... 16 

CONDITION OF PACK........................................................................................................ 16 

DESCRIPTION OF PACK .................................................................................................... 17 

FILLING OF CARTONS ....................................................................................................... 17 

TIGHTNESS OF PACK WITHIN LAYERS IN CARTONS.............................................................. 17 

iii 
 

 

 

 

 

TIGHTNESS OF PACK WITHIN LAYERS IN WIRE-BOUND CRATES ........................................... 18 

BULGE ............................................................................................................................ 18 

STANDARD PACK ............................................................................................................. 18 

STANDARD SIZING AND FILL.............................................................................................. 19 

CONSUMER BAGS ............................................................................................................ 20 

TEMPERATURE OF PRODUCT ............................................................................................ 20 

SIZE ............................................................................................................................... 20 

MEASURING DIAMETER .................................................................................................... 20 

SIZE MARKS ON CONTAINERS ........................................................................................... 20 

DESCRIBING SIZE ............................................................................................................ 21 

BULK SHIPMENTS OR CONSUMER BAG PACKS ................................................................... 21 

DEFECTS (QUALITY AND CONDITION) ................................................................................ 21 

AMMONIATION (Q) ........................................................................................................... 22 

BUCKSKIN (Q) ................................................................................................................. 22 

BRUISING (C) .................................................................................................................. 23 

CAKED MELANOSE (Q)..................................................................................................... 23 

COLOR (Q)...................................................................................................................... 24 

COLOR ADDED ........................................................................................................... 25 

CREASING (Q) (C) ........................................................................................................... 25 

DISCOLORATION (Q) ........................................................................................................ 25 

DISCOLORATION TOLERANCES .................................................................................... 27 

SUMMARY OF DISCOLORATION TOLERANCES ................................................................ 28 

DRYNESS OR MUSHY CONDITION (Q) (C) .......................................................................... 28 

FIRMNESS/PUFFY (C)....................................................................................................... 29 

FREEZING INJURY (Q) (C) ................................................................................................ 30 

GRANULATION (TREE DRYNESS) (Q)................................................................................. 30 

GREEN SPOTS OR OIL SPOTS (Q)..................................................................................... 31 

HAIL (Q) ......................................................................................................................... 31 

MATURITY (Q) ................................................................................................................. 32 

SCAB (Q)........................................................................................................................ 32 

SCALE (Q) ...................................................................................................................... 33 

SCARS (Q)...................................................................................................................... 33 

SHAPE (Q) ...................................................................................................................... 34 

SKIN INJURY (SKIN BREAKDOWN) (C)................................................................................ 34 

SOOTY MOLD (Q) ............................................................................................................ 35 

SPROUTED SEEDS (C) ..................................................................................................... 35 

STEM BUTTONS AND ATTACHED STEM LEAVES .................................................................. 36 

SPRAYBURN (Q) .............................................................................................................. 36 

iv 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SUNBURN (Q).................................................................................................................. 36 

SPLIT ROUGH OR PROTRUDING NAVELS (Q) ...................................................................... 37 

TEXTURE (Q) .................................................................................................................. 37 

THORN SCRATCHES (Q)................................................................................................... 38 

WORMY FRUIT (Q OR C) .................................................................................................. 38 

DECAY (C) ...................................................................................................................... 39 

GRAPEFRUIT IDENTIFICATION CHART ................................................................................ 40 

PART II – GRAPEFRUIT..................................................................................................... 41 

GENERAL........................................................................................................................ 41 

IMPORT CERTIFICATIONS AT PORT OF ENTRY ..................................................................... 41 

MARKETING ORDER 906 .................................................................................................. 41 

REPRESENTATIVE SAMPLING............................................................................................ 42 

SIZE OF SAMPLES ............................................................................................................ 42 

SHIPPING POINT......................................................................................................... 42 

MARKET .................................................................................................................... 43 

SAMPLING BULK LOADS.................................................................................................... 43 

NUMBER OF SAMPLES ...................................................................................................... 43 

SHIPPING POINT......................................................................................................... 43 

MARKET .................................................................................................................... 44 

SAMPLING FOR INTERNAL DEFECTS .................................................................................. 44 

CUTTING PLAN FOR INTERNAL DEFECTS ............................................................................ 46 

CUTTING INSTRUCTIONS AND SCORING GUIDE FOR DRYNESS-MUSHY CONDITION ................ 47 

TOLERANCES AND APPLICATION OF TOLERANCES ............................................................. 48 

TOLERANCES .................................................................................................................. 48 

SUMMARY OF TOLERANCES......................................................................................... 50 

APPLICATION OF TOLERANCES.......................................................................................... 51 

SUMMARY OF APPLICATION OF TOLERANCES ................................................................ 52 

NOTESHEET AND CERTIFICATE ......................................................................................... 53 

PRODUCT........................................................................................................................ 54 

NUMBER/TYPE OF CONTAINERS ........................................................................................ 54 

BRANDS/MARKINGS ......................................................................................................... 54 

SHIPPING POINT......................................................................................................... 54 

MARKET .................................................................................................................... 54 

ORIGIN ........................................................................................................................... 55 

CONDITION OF PACK........................................................................................................ 55 

DESCRIPTION OF PACK .................................................................................................... 55 

FILLING OF CARTONS ....................................................................................................... 55 

TIGHTNESS OF PACK WITHIN LAYERS IN CARTONS.............................................................. 56 

v 
 

 

 

 

 

 

TIGHTNESS OF PACK WITHIN LAYERS IN WIRE-BOUND CRATES ........................................... 56 

BULGE ............................................................................................................................ 65 

STANDARD PACK ............................................................................................................. 65 

CONSUMER BAGS ............................................................................................................ 66 

TEMPERATURE OF PRODUCT ............................................................................................ 66 

SIZE ............................................................................................................................... 66 

MEASURING DIAMETER .................................................................................................... 67 

SIZE MARKS ON CONTAINERS ........................................................................................... 67 

DESCRIBING SIZE ............................................................................................................ 67 

BULK SHIPMENTS OR CONSUMER BAG PACKS ................................................................... 67 

DEFECTS (QUALITY AND CONDITION) ................................................................................ 68 

AMMONIATION (Q) ........................................................................................................... 68 

BLOSSOM END CLEARING (C)........................................................................................... 69 

BRUISING (C) .................................................................................................................. 69 

BUCKSKIN (Q) ................................................................................................................. 70 

CAKED MELANOSE (Q)..................................................................................................... 70 

CLUSTER RING (Q) .......................................................................................................... 70 

COLOR (Q)...................................................................................................................... 71 

COLOR ADDED ........................................................................................................... 72 

COLOR OF FLESH ....................................................................................................... 72 

CREASING (Q) (C) ........................................................................................................... 73 

MARKET .................................................................................................................... 73 

DISCOLORATION (Q) ........................................................................................................ 73 

DISCOLORATION TOLERANCES .................................................................................... 74 

SUMMARY OF DISCOLORATION TOLERANCES ................................................................ 75 

FIRMNESS (C) ................................................................................................................. 76 

FREEZING INJURY (Q) (C) ................................................................................................ 76 

DRYNESS OR MUSHY CONDITION (Q) (C) .......................................................................... 77 

GRANULATION (TREE DRYNESS) (Q)................................................................................. 78 

GREEN SPOTS OR OIL SPOTS (Q)..................................................................................... 78 

HAIL (Q) ......................................................................................................................... 78 

MATURITY (Q) ................................................................................................................. 79 

SCAB (Q)........................................................................................................................ 79 

SCALE (Q) ...................................................................................................................... 80 

SCARS (Q)...................................................................................................................... 80 

SEED COUNT................................................................................................................... 81 

SHAPE (Q) ...................................................................................................................... 81 

SKIN INJURY (SKIN BREAKDOWN) (C)................................................................................ 82 

vi 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SOOTY MOLD (Q) ............................................................................................................ 82 

SPRAYBURN (Q) .............................................................................................................. 83 

SPROUTED SEEDS (C) ..................................................................................................... 83 

STEM BUTTONS AND ATTACHED STEMS-LEAVES ................................................................ 84 

SUNBURN (Q).................................................................................................................. 84 

TEXTURE (Q) .................................................................................................................. 84 

THORN SCRATCHES (Q)................................................................................................... 85 

WORMY FRUIT (Q) (C) ..................................................................................................... 86 

DECAY (C) ...................................................................................................................... 86 

APPENDIX I – NOTESHEET AND CERTIFICATE EXAMPLES .................................................... 87 

EXAMPLE 1 – FV/SC-300 NOTESHEET (FRONT) – ORANGES .............................................. 87 

EXAMPLE 1 – FV/SC-300 NOTESHEET (BACK) – ORANGES ................................................ 88 

EXAMPLE 1 – FV/SC-300 CERTIFICATE – ORANGES .......................................................... 89 

EXAMPLE 2 – FV/SC-300 NOTESHEET (FRONT) – GRAPEFRUIT .......................................... 90 

EXAMPLE 2 – FV/SC-300 NOTESHEET (BACK) – GRAPEFRUIT ............................................ 91 

EXAMPLE 2 – FV/SC-300 CERTIFICATE – GRAPEFRUIT ...................................................... 92 

vii 
 

 

 

ORANGE IDENTIFICATION CHART 

Shipping Point and Market Inspection Instructions for Oranges and Grapefruit Grown in 

Texas and States Other Than Florida, California, and Arizona. 

(WORKING DRAFT – September 2022) 

1 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PART I – ORANGES 

GENERAL 

The U.S. Standards for Grades of Oranges (Texas and States other than Florida, 

California, and Arizona) apply to the common or sweet oranges, and varieties and hybrids 

of varieties belonging to the Mandarin group, except Tangerines. Mandarin varieties and 

hybrids, other than Tangerines, include but are not restricted to Satsuma, King, Wilking, 

Ponkan, Minneola, Kara, Kinnow, Page, Lee, Osceolo, and K-Early. 

Grapefruit are covered by a separate U.S. grade standard and in Part II – Grapefruit of 

these instructions. 

Any portion of these instructions beginning with §51 and followed with bold print is 

material copied directly from the U.S. Standards for Grades of Oranges (Texas and States 

other than Florida, California, and Arizona). 

IMPORT CERTIFICATION AT PORTS OF ENTRY 

For all imported oranges, except navels, at port of entry apply the U.S. Standards for 

Grades of Oranges (Texas and States other than Florida, California and Arizona) and the 

Texas maturity requirements. For navel oranges apply the U.S. Standards for Grades of 

Oranges (California and Arizona) and the Texas maturity requirements. Do not perform 

juice content measurements as a measure of maturity. If you are unsure of any import 

regulation, contact your immediate supervisor or Inspection Operations for guidance. 

For inspections requested on imported fruit other than at port of entry, or when import 

requirements are not in effect, apply the grade standards the fruit most closely resembles 

(texture, thickness of skin, discoloration, and scarring). 

MARKETING ORDER 906 

Marketing Order §906.137 for Oranges and Grapefruit Grown in Lower Rio Grande Valley 

in Texas contains specific grades that may be marked on the containers. If containers are 

marked as such, they must meet the additional following requirements, or they could be 

considered misbranded and PACA should be notified. §906.137 (a)(1-3) are applicable to 

grapefruit and can be found in that section. §906.137 (a)(4-5) are applicable to oranges 

and can be found below. 

MO §906.137 (a)...the identifying marks “Texasweet”, “Sweeter By Nature”, “Texas 

Fancy”, and “Texas Choice” shall be available to handlers only under the following terms 

and conditions:... 

Shipping Point and Market Inspection Instructions for Oranges and Grapefruit Grown in 

Texas and States Other Than Florida, California, and Arizona. 

(WORKING DRAFT – September 2022) 

2 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(4) The identifying marks “Texasweet” and “Sweeter by Nature” may severally or jointly 

be affixed only to containers of oranges or to individual oranges comprising a lot 

which grades at least U.S. Combination, with not less than 60 percent, by count, of 

the oranges in each container thereof grading at least U.S. No. 1 and the remainder 

U.S. No. 2. 

(5) The identifying mark “Texas Choice” may be affixed only to containers of oranges or 

to individual oranges comprising of a lot which grades at least U.S. No. 2, except 

that in determining whether the fruit is reasonably well colored the yellow or orange 

color must predominate over the green color on at least 75 percent of the fruit 

surface in the aggregate which is not discolored. 

For more complete instructions see Marketing Order 906. 

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 SAMPLE 

SHIPPING POINT 

In-line Certification 

Each sample will consist of 25 fruit. If containers have less than 25 fruit, examine a 

composite sample of 25 fruit. If a sample tolerance is exceeded, double the sample size. 

The lot average must never exceed the lot tolerance. 

The first sample examined must meet all lot tolerances. If three consecutive samples in a 

lot exceed a lot tolerance, a corrective action must be taken on the packed containers that 

are represented by the third sample. 

Stationary Lots 

Sampling for all lots will consist of 25 fruit. If containers have less than 25 fruit, examine a 

composite sample of 25 fruit. A minimum of 3 samples must be examined to certify a lot. 

If a lot tolerance is exceeded, double the sample size for containers containing 50 fruit or 

more, except for composite samples. If a sample tolerance is exceeded, examine the 

Shipping Point and Market Inspection Instructions for Oranges and Grapefruit Grown in 

Texas and States Other Than Florida, California, and Arizona. 

(WORKING DRAFT – September 2022) 

3 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

entire contents of the container, except for bulk lots or bulk bins. These lots will be limited 

to a 100-count sample. 

MARKET 

For packages containing 25 fruit or more, examine a minimum of 25 fruit. When any 

sample tolerance is exceeded, examine the entire contents of at least one package which 

exceeded the sample tolerance. If impractical to run the entire contents, i.e., extremely 

large number of fruit and bulk lots, examine a minimum of 100 fruit. 

For packages containing less than 25 fruit, open a sufficient number of adjoining packages 

to obtain a minimum of 25 fruit. Use the entire contents for the sample when opening an 

adjoining package. For example, when fruit are packed in 5 lb. consumer bags (10 fruit 

per bag), open 3 bags (30 fruit sample). If a sample tolerance is exceeded using this 

method, do not double the sample size. The lot is out of grade because the sample 

tolerance was exceeded. 

SAMPLING BULK LOADS 

Since the carrier is the container, do not treat the variation found in bulk loads like similar 

variations found in packages when applying the rule of double or one and one-half times 

the tolerance. The load, as a general rule, is sold as a unit and is inspected as such. If it 

is divided by bulkheads or partitions, you may inspect it as separate units if the applicant 

identifies the units as being separate or if there is a material difference in the quality and 

condition of the units. Do not attempt to report a range or an average for bulk loads. See 

the General Market Manual. 

When determining the minimum number of samples drawn from a bulk shipment, divide 

the load’s approximate net weight by the appropriate “packed net weight.” This calculation 

provides a 4/5-bushel equivalent. Example: Net weight of a load is approximate 57,000 

pounds; 57,000 ÷ 45 (packed net weight) = 1,267 cartons. Use the calculated carton 

equivalent as a guide when determining the number of samples to be examined. 

Examine a minimum of 25 contiguous fruit per sample. 

Shipping Point and Market Inspection Instructions for Oranges and Grapefruit Grown in 

Texas and States Other Than Florida, California, and Arizona. 

(WORKING DRAFT – September 2022) 

4 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NUMBER OF SAMPLES 

SHIPPING POINT 

In-line Certification 

A minimum of one sample for every 200 containers packed or 1/2 of the 1% of the total 

containers packed. 

Stationary Lots 

A minimum of 1% of the packages within the load or lot is recommended with a minimum 

of three sample examined on any lot. 

MARKET 

As a general guide the goal is to sample 1% of the containers in the lot. This number may 

be larger or smaller depending on the amount of defects in the lot. Very low or very high 

percentages of defects may change the sample number to less or more than 1%, 

respectively. Examine enough samples to ensure that the certificate issued will accurately 

describe the quality and condition of the lot. All unrestricted lots will have a minimum of 

three samples examined. Lots with less than three containers will have all containers 

examined to be considered unrestricted. For detailed guidance on the number of samples, 

refer to the General Market Manual. 

SAMPLING FOR INTERNAL DEFECTS 

The following plans are designed to provide efficient and accurate methods of sampling for 

internal defects in citrus. These defects include dryness-mushy condition (freezing injury), 

granulation (tree dryness), sprouted seeds, bruising or any other defect that cannot be 

detected or determined without cutting the fruit. 

There are two specific cutting plans. Plan A is used when internal defects are almost 

certain to be present, (e.g., immediately following a freeze or in late spring and summer 

months when granulation (tree dryness) is known to be a factor). Plan B is used when 

internal defects are suspected. Plan B detects internal defects while destroying a 

minimum amount of fruit. Both plans are based on the initial sample size of 25 fruit. 

Plan A – After the sample has been examined for external defects, select the 10 most 

suspicious fruit, without regard to external defects, and cut for internal defects. If no 

defects are found, do not cut any other specimens from that sample. Continue to cut 10 

fruit per sample provided no internal defects are found. If one or more internal defects 

Shipping Point and Market Inspection Instructions for Oranges and Grapefruit Grown in 

Texas and States Other Than Florida, California, and Arizona. 

(WORKING DRAFT – September 2022) 

5 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

are found, cut the remaining fruit in the sample to determine the percentage of internal 

defects: 

• Shipping Point: Do not deviate from the in-line certification sampling size. 

• Market: If sample tolerances are exceeded, the sample size must be at least 

doubled except for composite samples (50 fruit) or entire contents if less than 50 

fruit in the container. Continue to cut all fruit in each sample until a sample is found 

free from internal defects. Revert to cutting 10 fruit per sample when no internal 

defects are found. This does not apply to bagged lots because the entire contents 

of the bag have already been cut. 

Plan B – is similar to Plan A; the only difference is that if no internal defects are found, 

Plan B requires cutting 10 fruit from every fourth sample. Start cutting with the first sample 

and continue with every fourth sample thereafter. 

Select the 10 most suspicious fruit without regard to external defects from every fourth 

sample and cut them for internal defects. If no internal defects are found in the 10 fruit, 

continue to cut the 10 most suspicious fruit from every fourth sample. If one or more 

defects are found, cut the remaining fruit in the sample (25), unless the sample tolerances 

are exceeded. When exceeded, increase sample size to 50 fruit or entire contents if 

containing less than 50 fruit, and begin using Plan A (not applicable to bagged lots). Cut 

either 10 fruit or all fruit in the sample according to Plan A until 5 consecutive samples are 

free from internal defects. Revert to cutting 10 fruit from every fourth sample at this point: 

• Shipping Point: Do not deviate from the in-line certification sample size. 

• Market: If sample tolerances are exceeded, the sample size must be at least 

doubled (50 fruit or entire contents). 

Shipping Point and Market Inspection Instructions for Oranges and Grapefruit Grown in 

Texas and States Other Than Florida, California, and Arizona. 

(WORKING DRAFT – September 2022) 

6 
 

 

 

CUTTING PLANS FOR INTERNAL DEFECTS 

Shipping Point and Market Inspection Instructions for Oranges and Grapefruit Grown in 

Texas and States Other Than Florida, California, and Arizona. 

(WORKING DRAFT – September 2022) 

7 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CUTTING INSTRUCTIONS AND SCORING GUIDE DRYNESS-MUSHY CONDITION 

Preliminary Cut: This cut is intended to remove only the rind down to the fleshy portion of 

the fruit under the stem button and will vary in depth depending on rind thickness. 

1st Slice: 1/4 inch in width. This slice may be totally dry or in any stage from mushy to dry 

in all segments. This is the maximum amount permitted in the U.S. Fancy and No. 1 

grades. If the total volume of this slice is affected, any dryness-mushy condition in the 

remaining portion of the fruit will be considered as damage. 

2nd Slice: 1/4 inch in width. This slice, plus the first slice (totaling 1/2 inch) may be totally 

dry or in any stage from mushy to dry in all segments. This represents the maximum 

volume permitted in the U.S. No. 2 grade. If the total volume of this slice is affected, any 

dryness or mushy condition in the remaining portion of the fruit will be considered serious 

damage. 

3rd Slice: 1/4 inch in width. This 1/4 inch slice, plus the previous two slices (totaling 3/4 

inch) may be totally dry or in any stage from mushy to dry in all segments. This represents 

the maximum volume permitted in the U.S. No. 3 grade. If the total volume of this slice is 

affected, any dryness or mushy condition in the remaining portion of the fruit will be 

considered very serious damage. 

If any portions of the segments in the slice are not mushy or affected by dryness-mushy 

condition, additional mushiness or dryness may be allowed in other portions of the fruit, 

but the total amount must not exceed the equivalent volume permitted. If this is 

encountered, it will be necessary to cut several 1/4 inch slices to determine the total 

amount of dryness-mushiness present in the fruit. 

Shipping Point and Market Inspection Instructions for Oranges and Grapefruit Grown in 

Texas and States Other Than Florida, California, and Arizona. 

(WORKING DRAFT – September 2022) 

8 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TOLERANCES AND APPLICATION OF TOLERANCES 

TOLERANCES 

§51.689 Tolerances. 

In order to allow for variations incident to proper grading and handling in each of

the foregoing grades, the following tolerances, by count, based on a minimum 25 

count sample, are provided as specified. No tolerance shall apply to wormy fruit. 

(a) Defects 

(1) U.S. Fancy, U.S. No. 1, U.S. No. 1 Bright, U.S. No. 1 Bronze, U.S. No. 2, 

and U.S. No. 2 Russet Grades. 

(i) For defects at shipping point.

1 Not more than 10 percent of the 

fruit in any lot may fail to meet the requirements of the specified 

grade: Provided, That included in this amount not more than 5 

percent shall be allowed for defects causing very serious 

damage, including in this latter amount not more than 1 percent 

for decay. 

(ii) For defects en route or at destination. Not more than 12 percent 

of the fruit in any lot may fail to meet the requirements of the 

specified grade: Provided, That included in this amount not 

more than the following percentages shall be allowed for defects 

listed: 

(A) 10 percent for fruit having permanent defects; or, 

(B) 7 percent for defects causing very serious damage,

including therein not more than 5 percent for very serious 

damage by permanent defects and not more than 3 percent 

for decay. 

(2) U.S. Combination. 

(i) For defects at shipping point.

1 Not more than 10 percent of the 

fruit in any lot may fail to meet the requirements of the U.S. No. 2 

grade: Provided, That included in this amount not more than 5 

percent shall be allowed for defects causing very serious 

1 Shipping point, as used in these standards, means the point of origin of the shipment in the production area or at port of loading for 

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

United States. 

Shipping Point and Market Inspection Instructions for Oranges and Grapefruit Grown in 

Texas and States Other Than Florida, California, and Arizona. 

(WORKING DRAFT – September 2022) 

9 
 

 

 

 

 

 

damage, including in this latter amount not more than 1 percent 

for decay. 

(ii) For defects en route or at destination. Not more than 12 percent 

of the fruit in any lot may fail to meet the requirements of the U.S. 

No. 2 grade: Provided, That included in this amount not more 

than the following percentages shall be allowed for defects 

listed: 

(A) 10 percent for fruit having permanent defects; or, 

(B) 7 percent for defects causing very serious damage,

including therein not more than 5 percent for very serious 

damage by permanent defects and not more than 3 percent 

for decay. 

(iii) For defects at shipping point

1 and en route or at destination: No 

part of any tolerance shall be allowed to reduce for the lot as a 

whole, the 55 percent of U.S. No. 1 fruit required in the U.S.

Combination grade, but individual samples may have not more 

than 15 percent less than the required percentage for the grade: 

Provided, That the entire lot averages within the percentage 

required. 

(3) U.S. No. 3. 

(i) For defects at shipping point.

1 Not more than 10 percent of the 

fruit in any lot may fail to meet the requirements of the grade: 

Provided, That included in this amount not more than 1 percent 

for decay. 

(ii) For defects en route or at destination. Not more than 12 percent 

of the fruit in any lot may fail to meet the requirements of the 

grade: Provided, That included in this amount not more than the 

following percentages shall be allowed for defects listed: 

(A) 10 percent for fruit having permanent defects; or, 

(B) 3 percent for decay. 

(b) Discoloration. 

(1) U.S. No. 1, U.S. No. 1 Bright, U.S. Combination and U.S. No. 2. Not 

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

requirements relating to discoloration as specified in each grade. No 

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sample may have more than 20 percent of the fruit with excessive 

discoloration: Provided, That the entire lot averages within the 

percentage specified. 

(2) U.S. No. 1 Bronze. At least 10 percent of the fruit shall have more than 

one-third of the surface, in the aggregate, affected by discoloration,

and no part of any tolerance shall be allowed to reduce this 

percentage. No sample may have less than 5 percent of the fruit with 

required discoloration: Provided, That the entire lot averages within 

the percentage specified. No tolerance shall apply to fruit showing no 

discoloration. 

(3) U.S. No. 2 Russet. At least 10 percent of the fruit shall have more than 

one-half of the surface, in the aggregate, affected by discoloration, 

and no part of any tolerance shall be allowed to reduce this 

percentage. No sample may have less than 5 percent of the fruit with 

the required discoloration: Provided, That the entire lot averages 

within the percentage specified. 

SUMMARY OF TOLERANCES 

Shipping Point 

U.S. 

Fancy 

U.S. No. 1 

U.S. No. 2 

U.S. Combination1 

U.S. 

No. 3 

Discoloration 

A. Discoloration2 N/A 10% N/A 

Defects 

B. Defects 10% 10% 10% 

C. Very Serious Damage (included in B) 5% 5% N/A 

D. Decay (included in B or C for U.S. No. 3) 1% 1% 1% 

E. Wormy fruit3 0% 0% 0% 

1 At least 55 percent of the fruit, by count, must meet the requirements of the U.S. No. 1 grade. 

2 Discoloration is a separate tolerance and is not included in total defects for U.S. No. 1, U.S. No. 2, and Combination grades. 

For the U.S. Fancy grade discoloration is part of total defects. 

3 There is no tolerance for wormy fruit. If any wormy fruit is found, the lot fails. 

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Market 

U.S. 

Fancy 

U.S. No. 1 

U.S. No. 2 

U.S. Combination1 

U.S. 

No. 3 

Discoloration 

A. Discoloration2 N/A 10% N/A 

Defects 

B. Defects 12% 12% 12% 

C. Permanent defects (included in B) 10% 10% 10% 

D. Very Serious Damage (included in B) 7% 7% N/A 

E. Very serious damage by permanent defects 

(included in D) 5% 5% N/A 

F. Decay (included in D or B for U.S. No. 3) 3% 3% 3% 

G. Wormy fruit3 0% 0% 0% 

1 At least 55 percent of the fruit, by count, must meet the requirements of the U.S. No. 1 grade. 

2 Discoloration is a separate tolerance and is not included in total defects for U.S. No. 1, U.S. No. 2, and Combination grades. 

For the U.S. Fancy grade discoloration is part of total defects. 

3 There is no tolerance for wormy fruit. If any wormy fruit is found, the lot fails. 

APPLICATION OF TOLERANCES 

§51.690 Application of tolerances. 

Individual samples are subject to the following limitations, unless otherwise 

specified in §51.689. Individual samples shall have not more than one and one-half 

times a specified tolerance of 10 percent or more, and not more than double a 

specified tolerance of less than 10 percent: Provided, That at least one decayed 

may be permitted in any sample: And provided further, That the averages for the 

entire lot are within the tolerances specified for the grade. 

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SUMMARY OF APPLICATION OF TOLERANCES 

Shipping Point 

U.S. 

Fancy 

U.S. No. 1 

U.S. No. 2 

U.S. Combination1 

U.S. 

No. 3 

Discoloration 

A. Discoloration2 N/A 20% N/A 

Defects 

B. Defects 15% 15% 15% 

C. Very Serious Damage (included in B) 10% 10% N/A 

D. Decay (included in B or C for U.S. No. 3) 2% 2% 2% 

E. Wormy Fruit3 0% 0% 0% 

1 At least 55 percent of the fruit, by count, must meet the requirements of the U.S. No. 1 grade, but individual samples may have not 

less than 40 percent U.S. No. 1 fruit. 

2 Discoloration is a separate tolerance and is not included in total defects for U.S. No. 1, U.S. No. 2, and Combination grades. For the 

U.S. Fancy grade discoloration is part of total defects. 

3 There is no tolerance for wormy fruit. If any wormy fruit is found, the lot fails. 

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Market 

U.S. 

Fancy 

U.S. No. 1 

U.S. No. 2 

U.S. Combination1 

U.S. 

No. 3 

Discoloration 

A. Discoloration2 N/A 20% N/A 

Defects 

B. Defects 18% 18% 18% 

C. Permanent defects (included in B) 15% 15% 15% 

D. Very Serious Damage (included in B) 14% 14% N/A 

E. Very serious damage by permanent defects 

(included in D) 10% 10% N/A 

F. Decay (included in D or B for U.S. No. 3) 6% 6% 6% 

G. Wormy Fruit3 0% 0% 0% 

1 At least 55 percent of the fruit, by count, must meet the requirements of the U.S. No. 1 grade, but individual samples may have not 

less than 40 percent U.S. No. 1 fruit. 

2 Discoloration is a separate tolerance and is not included in total defects for U.S. No. 1, U.S. No. 2, and Combination grades. 

For the U.S. Fancy grade discoloration is part of total defects. 

3 There is no tolerance for wormy fruit. If any wormy fruit is found, the lot fails. 

NOTESHEET AND CERTIFICATE 

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

information appearing on the certificate with information from 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/SC-184) Handbook, or Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Inspection Certificate (FV/SC-300). 

Contact your supervisor for anything not covered in these instructions. 

PRODUCT 

Use the common name “Oranges” to describe this commodity in the product heading. 

Type may be reported in conjunction with oranges or may be reported in the “Lot ID” 

section on market notesheets and certificates. Do not certify variety. The variety may be 

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reported in the “Remarks” or “Other” section if requested by applicant and clearly stated on 

cartons or containers. 

CLASSIFICATION OF ORANGES 

Early type are those having a normal maturing season corresponding to the maturing 

period for Parson Brown or Hamlin varieties. October through January. 

Mid-Season type are those having a normal maturing season corresponding to that of 

Pineapples and Seedlings. December through February. 

Late type oranges are those having a normal maturing period corresponding to that of 

Valencia, Lue Gim Gong, and Pope Summer varieties. March through July. 

The following list of orange varieties are classified as Early, Mid-Season, and Late types: 

Early Mid-Season Late 

Boones’ Early 

Conner’s Seedless 

Early Oblong 

Enterprise 

Foster 

Hamlin 

Heards 

Hick 

Parson Brown 

Sixteen to One 

Walker’s Early 

Acme 

Arcadia 

Centennial 

Circassian 

Dummitt 

Exquisite 

Homosassa 

Indian River 

Jaffa 

Joppa 

Madma Vinous 

Magnum Bonum 

Majorca 

Marquis 

May 

Nonpareil 

Old Vini 

Osceola 

Paper Rind 

Pineapple 

Prata 

Ruby 

Sanford Blood 

Saul Blood 

Seeding 

Star Calyx 

Stark 

St. Michael 

Whitaker 

White 

Bessie 

Du Roi 

Lamb’s Late 

Lue Gim Gong 

Maltese Oval 

Pope Summer 

Valencia 

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 

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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. 

BRANDS/MARKINGS 

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. 

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. 

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 

Judge pack according to both bulge and tightness of the pack. 

When Biphenyl or other treated wraps, pads or liners are specified in the contract and the 

inspector can determine this factor without any question or doubt, report this information 

under the Pack heading. “Crates lined with Biphenyl liners.” 

Report unusual conditions, such as excessively high bulge. Some packs may have a high 

bulge, but the pack will be loose; flat packs may be found with the fruit tight in the box. 

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DESCRIPTION OF PACK 

Describe condition of pack for open or unlidded container in terms of fill. For other 

containers, apply terms describing tightness or fill depending upon the product and types 

of containers. 

FILLING OF CARTONS 

Use the following terms to describe the filling of cartons: 

Well filled: The carton is filled so that the fruit is in contact with the cover. 

Level full: The fruit is level with the top edge of the container. 

Fairly well filled: The carton is filled so that the fruit is slightly below the top edge but no 

more than 1/2 inch below. 

Slack: The fruit is more than 1/2 inch below the top edge of the carton. This term should 

also be qualified by showing how much the fruit is below the top edge in inches or fraction 

of an inch. 

TIGHTNESS OF PACK WITHIN LAYERS IN CARTONS 

Use the following terms to describe the tightness of pack within the layers in the carton: 

Tight: The fruit is tight enough in layers to prevent the specimens from moving materially 

within the package. 

Fairly tight: A condition between “tight” and “loose” in which there is excess of space 

within the layers but not sufficient space that an additional row of fruit can properly be 

added. 

Loose: There is sufficient space so that an additional row can properly be added to each 

layer within the container. 

Proper description of pack requires the use of terms for both filling and tightness. For 

example, “Well filled, tight in layers,” “fairly well filled, loose in layers” or other 

combinations in accordance with the facts. Cartons that are to be certified as meeting 

Standard Pack must be level full at time of packing. 

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TIGHTNESS OF PACK WITHIN LAYERS IN WIRE-BOUND CRATES 

Use the following terms in describing the tightness of pack within the layers in wire-bound 

crates: 

Very tight: Pack is too tight and tends to cause injury. 

Tight: Both pack and bulge are satisfactory. 

Fairly tight: The condition between “tight” and “slack,” that is tight enough to prevent the 

specimens from moving within the container. 

Slack: The package is not full. Also, qualify this statement by showing how much the fruit 

is below the level of the lid in fractions of an inch or inches. 

Examples: Tight pack in most cases, many cases 1/2 inch slack to level full; Fairly tight, 

lids showing 1/2 to 1 inch bulge; Most cases well filled, many fairly well filled. 

In determining the tightness of wire-bound crates take into consideration whether the 

package is on a rigid surface or whether it is resting on the ends of other crates of fruit 

which might permit the bottom side to become convex. This would make the crate appear 

slack at the top while in reality it is fairly tight. 

BULGE 

In reporting the height of the bulge, the measurement is the distance of the highest part of 

the curve of the lid above the level of the top edge of the ends of the container or the top 

side slats when they are flush with the tops of the ends. 

STANDARD PACK 

Standard Pack does not need to be determined on Market inspections unless requested 

by the applicant. Make certification of Standard Pack under the “Grade” heading in 

connection with the grade statement, but show the tightness of pack, and the uniformity of 

sizing, which are part of the requirements of Standard Pack, under the headings “Pack and 

Size.” A load may meet the requirements of the U.S. grades and not meet the 

requirements of “Standard Pack,” or vice versa. 

§51.691 Standard pack. 

(a) Fruit shall be fairly uniform in size. When packed in approved containers, 

fruit shall be arranged according to approved and recognized methods. 

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(b) “Fairly uniform in size” means that not more than 10 percent of fruit in any 

lot, and not more than double that amount in any sample, are outside the 

ranges of diameters given in Table 1. 

Table 1 to §51.691 paragraph (b) – 7/10 Bushel Carton 

Pack size/number Diameter in inches 

of oranges Minimum Maximum 

24 3-12/16 5-1/16 

32 3-6/16 4-9/16 

36 3-4/16 4-6/16 

40 3-2/16 4-4/16 

48 2-15/16 4 

56 2-13/16 3-13/16 

64 2-11/16 3-10/16 

72 2-9/16 3-8/16 

88 2-8/16 3-4/16 

113 2-7/16 3 

138 2-6/16 2-12/16 

163 2-3/16 2-8/16 

(c) In order to allow for variations, other than sizing, incident to proper 

packing, not more than 5 percent of the packages in any lot may fail to

meet the requirements of standard pack. 

STANDARD SIZING AND FILL 

Boxes or cartons which are not place-packed according to a definite pattern, but which are 

volume filled or jumble packed, cannot be certified as Standard Pack because the fruit is 

not arranged according to the approved and recognized methods. However, such cartons 

of oranges may be certified as meeting Standard Sizing and Fill if the oranges are fairly 

uniform (see Size section) in size and they have been properly shaken down and the 

container is at least level full at time of packing. 

Cartons that are fairly well filled, will be considered as meeting the filling requirements of 

Standard Sizing and Fill. As with Standard Pack, Standard Sizing and Fill certification will 

be made only on specific request and under the grade heading in connection with the 

grade statement. 

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CONSUMER BAGS 

When consumer bags are used, even though these bags are packed in master containers, 

mark out the Pack heading on the notesheet. 

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 

Size is not a requirement of the grade. A load may meet the requirements of the U.S. 

grades and fail to meet size. For market inspections, determine size if requested by the 

applicant, see the Standard Pack section. 

MEASURING DIAMETER 

In measuring fruit for diameter, use the greatest dimension measured at right angles to a 

line from stem to blossom end of the fruit. Make these measurements with a rigid jaw 

caliper. Turn the fruit in the caliper to make sure that the greatest dimension is obtained. 

Do not use pliable fruit, which has been squeezed out of shape account of tight pack, in 

the sample for measurement. 

When performing inspections for size only, each size will be considered separately and 

treated as a separate lot. See the Standard Pack section for additional details. For 

detailed guidance on size, refer to the General Market Manual. 

SIZE MARKS ON CONTAINERS 

Report the size marks on the containers under the “Brands and Markings” heading in 

connection with distinguishing marks. If they are not as marked, indicate this fact under 

the “Size” heading. Use general terms in describing the extent of incorrect markings. 

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Make the actual certification of size and count under the “Size” heading even though the 

size and count markings on the containers are shown under the “Products” heading. 

DESCRIBING SIZE 

Use the term “fairly uniform” if a lot meets size requirements, “irregular” if size 

requirements are not met. Do not use the term “uniform” when describing size since the 

term is not defined. 

When it is necessary to report a size or lot as “irregular,” the number of fruit and the 

percentage which fails to meet the requirements of “fairly uniform” will be shown to justify 

the use of the term “irregular.” 

BULK SHIPMENTS OR CONSUMER BAG PACKS 

Request for inspection for size of bulk shipments or consumer bag packs will require the 

measurement of sufficient fruit to accurately determine the number of fruit below or above 

a specified minimum and maximum diameter. When a box size is specified, as for 

example, 88 size, determine the number of fruit less than 2-8/16 inches and above 

3-4/16 inches in diameter. No statement of box sizes will be made on the certificate 

covering inspection of bulk or bagged fruit. However, the size description can be given by 

stating the diameter range in inches and fractions thereof. In addition, report the range 

and average percentage of fruit under and above the specified minimum and maximum 

diameters. 

Examples: 

(1) “Fairly uniform size.” 

(2) (In Bulk) “From 2-4/16 to 3-8/16, mostly 2-9/16 to 3 inches in diameter. Ranges 

from 3 to 24% per sample, average 8% under 2-8/16 inches or over 3-4/16 inches 

in diameter.” 

DEFECTS (QUALITY AND CONDITION) 

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

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

Factors noted with (Q) are considered as QUALITY only. Quality or “permanent” defects 

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

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

factors subject to change during shipment or storage (e.g., bruising, discoloration, 

shriveling, and decay). 

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

on the circumstances. 

References to area or aggregate area, or length are based on an orange 2-7/8 inches in 

diameter. Allowing proportionately greater areas on larger fruit and lesser areas on 

smaller fruit. 

AMMONIATION (Q) 

Ammoniation, also called exanthema, is a non-parasitic nutritional disease of the fruit, 

leaves, and twigs of citrus trees caused by a copper deficiency. It appears as dark brown, 

glossy spots on the rind of the fruit which can be of various sizes and shapes. Gum 

pockets can sometimes be found in the albedo of thick-skinned fruit when no symptoms 

appear on the surface. The surface spots or scars may be pimple-like and reddish-brown, 

coalescing to form large roughened areas on the fruit or they may be smooth and flat, or 

concave and rough. The rind can become hard and stiff. 

Ammoniation can be mistaken for melanose. The two can be distinguished by the fact that 

ammoniation originates in the tissues beneath the epidermis and appear to come up 

through the epidermis, while melanose is on the surface of the rind. 

Scoring Guide 

Score any amount against the U.S. Fancy grade. 

Damage: If not occurring as light speck type. 

Serious damage: When scars are cracked or dark and aggregating more than a circle 

3/4 inch in diameter or light colored and aggregating more than a circle 1-1/4 inches in 

diameter. 

Very serious damage: When aggregating more than 25% of the surface. 

BUCKSKIN (Q) 

Fruit affected by buckskin will have slightly roughened, grayish areas of abnormally thick 

rind. Buckskin is caused by citrus rust mites on immature fruit which is aggravated and 

extended by a surface-growing fungus following the mite injury. 

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Scoring Guide 

Score any amount against the U.S. Fancy grade. 

Damage: When aggregating more than a circle 1 inch in diameter. 

Serious damage: When aggregating more than 25% of the surface. 

Very serious damage: When aggregating more than 50% of the surface. 

BRUISING (C) 

Bruising after packing occurs because of jostling and movement in slack packs, pressure 

from too tight a pack, or overhead weight on lower layer packages. Bruises will have soft 

areas that, when cut, contain mushy areas in the underlying flesh. 

Affected fruit may be flattened on two or more sides. If the underlying flesh is not affected, 

these flattened areas may regain their shape. Do not score flattened areas unless the 

underlying flesh is mushy. 

The U.S. Standards for Grades of Oranges (Texas and States other than Florida, 

California and Arizona) require the U.S. Fancy, U.S. No. 1, U.S. No. 1 Bright, U.S. No.1 

Bronze, U.S. Combination, U.S. No. 2, and U.S. No. 2 Russet grades to be free from 

bruises. The U.S. No. 3 grade requires the fruit not be very seriously damaged by any 

other cause. 

Scoring Guide 

Score against U.S. Fancy, U.S. No. 1, U.S. Combination, and U.S. No. 2 grades when 

any amount of segment walls are collapsed, or rag is ruptured and juice sacs are ruptured, 

or areas are flattened to a point where they are so sunken that they cannot be restored 

into their original shape. 

Very serious damage: When the fruit has been split open, peel is badly watersoaked 

following bruising, or rag is ruptured and juice sacs are ruptured causing a mushy 

condition affecting all segments more than 3/4 inch at bruised area or the equivalent of the 

amount, by volume, when affecting more than one area on the fruit. 

CAKED MELANOSE (Q) 

Melanose occurs as small brown raised spots, approximately pin head size. These spots 

may coalesce to form large scab-like patches known as “caked melanose.” When 

scattered over the fruit surface, they are scored as discoloration (speck type melanose). 

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Melanose spots may also appear similar to tear staining. Tear staining is a form of rust 

mite discoloration with a smooth, diffused appearance. When encountered, score tear 

staining as discoloration. Melanose is easily distinguished from this defect by its brown 

glazed appearance, slightly raised texture, and distinct sandpapery feel. 

Scoring Guide 

Score any amount against the U.S. Fancy and U.S. No. 1 grades. 

Serious damage: When aggregating more than a circle 3/4 inch in diameter. 

Very serious damage: When aggregating more than 25% of the surface. 

COLOR (Q) 

“Color” refers to the amount of external yellow color present. It does not relate to 

discoloration caused by rust mite, speck type melanose, and smooth-fairly smooth 

superficial scars. When determining color, judge only that part of the fruit not affected by 

discoloration. Color must be judged in normal daylight. Fruit appears greener under 

artificial light or in a poorly lighted area. 

§51.695 Well colored...the fruit is yellow or orange in color with practically no trace 

of green color. 

§51.703 Fairly well colored...except for a one-inch circle in the aggregate of green 

color, the yellow or orange color predominates over the green color on that part of 

the fruit which is not discolored. 

§51.704 Reasonably well colored...the yellow or orange color predominates over the 

green color on at least two-thirds of the fruit surface in the aggregate which is not 

discolored. 

Scoring Guide 

U.S. Fancy: If the fruit does not meet the definition of “well colored.” Report as “Not well 

colored.” 

U.S. No. 1, U.S No. 1 Bright, U.S. No. 1 Bronze and U.S. Combination: When early 

and mid-season varieties do not meet the definition of “fairly well colored,” and for other 

late varieties if not less than 50% by count do not meet the definition of “fairly well colored” 

with the remaining amount at least “reasonably well colored.” Report as “Not fairly well 

colored” or “Not reasonably well colored” as the case may be. 

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U.S. No 2 and U.S. No. 2 Russet: When the fruit does not meet the definition of 

“reasonably well colored.” Report as “Not reasonably well colored.” 

U.S. No. 3: When more than 25% of the surface is of a solid dark green color. 

COLOR ADDED 

Do not mention on the certificate the degree of color attained after a color added process. 

Report it under “Brands and Markings” if the containers are stamped color added. 

CREASING (Q) (C) 

There are three citrus fruit-creasing/cracking patterns, including flavedo-splitting, innercracking and albedo-splitting, also called fruit creasing or pitting. This can appear as a 

transparent irregular pattern of the rind caused by the thickening peel. 

Creasing severity does not increase after harvest. Creases in fruit that are subjected to 

hot solutions, such as color added treatment, tend to become more apparent. 

On the market, creasing is scored as a quality factor unless the fruit is color added. If the 

fruit or containers are marked “color added” score all creasing as a condition factor. Do 

not aggregate, consider only the total surface area that is affected. 

Scoring Guide 

Score any amount against the U.S. Fancy grade. 

Damage: When materially weakens the skin, or extends over more than 1/3 of the 

surface. 

Serious damage: When seriously weakens the skin, or extends over more than 1/2 of the 

surface. 

Very serious damage: When very seriously weakens the skin, or is distributed over 

practically the entire surface. 

DISCOLORATION (Q) 

Use the term “Excessive discoloration” to describe discoloration which affects the 

appearance more than the amount permitted for the grade. Report excessive discoloration 

separately from other quality defects except in the U.S. Fancy grade. 

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Discoloration is defined in the standards and is based on the aggregate area of russeting 

of a light shade to golden brown. Discoloration of a lighter shade of color may be 

permitted on a greater area and darker shades of color will be restricted to a lesser area. 

§51.681 U.S. Fancy...(a) Basic requirements...(1) Discoloration: Not more than onetenth of the surface, in the aggregate, may be affected by discoloration. 

(See §51.700.) 

§51.682 U.S. No. 1...(a) Basic requirements...(2) Discoloration: Not more than onethird of the surface, in the aggregate, may be affected by discoloration. 

(See §51.700.) 

§51.683 U.S. No. 1 Bright...no fruit may have more than one-tenth of its surface, in 

the aggregate, affected by discoloration. For tolerances see §51.689. 

§51.684 U.S. No. 1 Bronze...all fruit must show some discoloration and at least 10 

percent, by count, of the fruit shall have more than one-third of their surface, in the 

aggregate, affected by discoloration. The predominating discoloration on these 

fruits shall be of rust mite type. For tolerances see §51.689. 

§51.685 U.S. Combination...the lot meets the basic requirement for discoloration as 

specified in the U.S. No. 2 grade. 

§51.686 U.S. No. 2...(a) Basic requirements...(1) Discoloration: Not more than onehalf of the surface, in the aggregate, may be affected by discoloration. For 

tolerances see §51.689. 

§51.687 U.S. No. 2 Russet...at least 10 percent by count of the fruit shall have more 

than one-half of their surface, in the aggregate, affected by any type of 

discoloration. For tolerances see §51.689. 

§51.700 Discoloration...means russeting of light shade of golden brown caused by 

rust mite or other means. Lighter shades of discoloration caused by smooth or 

fairly smooth, superficial scars or other means may be allowed on a greater area, or 

darker shades may be allowed on a lesser area, provided no discoloration caused 

by melanose or other means may affect the appearance of the fruit to a greater 

extent than the shade and amount of discoloration allowed for the grade. 

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DISCOLORATION TOLERANCES 

§51.689 Tolerances... 

(b) Discoloration. 

(1) U.S. No. 1, U.S. No. 1 Bright, U.S. Combination and U.S. No. 2. Not 

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

requirements relating to discoloration as specified in each grade. 

No sample may have more than 20 percent of the fruit with excessive 

discoloration: Provided, That the entire lot averages within the 

percentage specified. 

(2) U.S. No. 1 Bronze. At least 10 percent of the fruit shall have more than 

one-third of the surface, in the aggregate, affected by discoloration,

and no part of any tolerance shall be allowed to reduce this percentage. 

No sample may have less than 5 percent of the fruit with required 

discoloration: Provided, That the entire lot averages within the 

percentage specified. No tolerance shall apply to fruit showing no 

discoloration. 

(3) U.S. No. 2 Russet. At least 10 percent of the fruit shall have more than 

one-half of the surface, in the aggregate, affected by discoloration, and 

no part of any tolerance shall be allowed to reduce this percentage. No 

sample may have less than 5 percent of the fruit with the required

discoloration: Provided, That the entire lot averages within the 

percentage specified. 

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SUMMARY OF DISCOLORATION TOLERANCES 

Shipping Point and Market 

Grade Surface Area 

Allowed 

Surface Area 

Required Lot Tolerance Sample Tolerance 

U.S. Fancy 1/10 — 1 1 

U.S. No.1 1/3 — 10% 20% 

U.S. No.1 

Bright 1/10 — 10% 20% 

U.S. No. 1 

Bronze2 — 1/3 At least 10% No less than 5% in 

individual sample 

U.S. 

Combination — — 10% 20% 

U.S. No. 2 1/2 — 10% 20% 

U.S. No. 2 

Russet3 — 1/2 At least 10% No less than 5% in 

individual sample 

1 

Discoloration for the U.S. Fancy grade is included in the total tolerance for defects. 

2 

For U.S. No. 1 Bronze the predominating type of discoloration on each fruit shall be of rust mite type. All fruit must show some 

discoloration. No tolerance shall apply to fruit showing no discoloration. 

3 For U.S. No. 1 Russet the predominating type of discoloration may be of any type. All fruit must show some discoloration. 

No tolerance shall apply to fruit showing no discoloration. 

DRYNESS OR MUSHY CONDITION (Q) (C) 

Depth of dryness or mushy conditions specified is for all segments at the stem-end, or the 

equivalent of this amount, by volume, when occurring in other portions of the fruit. If 

segment membrane walls show buckling, at a cross section cut near the stem-end of the 

fruit, examine the lot closely for further injury such as: 

1. Watersoaked condition of the core; 

2. Mushy condition of segments or portions of segments; 

3. Partly dry or dry portions of segment; and, 

4. Open spaces in the pulp. 

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If any of the preceding conditions, or any combination of these conditions, is present and is 

the equivalent of more than the first 1/4 inch slice at the stem end, the fruit is damaged. 

Use the guidance provided in the Sampling for Internal Defects section and Cutting 

Instructions and Scoring Guide for Dryness-mushy Condition. 

FIRMNESS/PUFFY (C) 

The U.S. Fancy and U.S. No.1 grades require firm fruit. The U.S. No.2 grades requires 

fruit must be at least fairly firm. Fruit not meeting these requirements are scored against 

the total grade tolerance. The U.S. No. 3 grade allows slightly spongy fruit. 

If the fruit only shows signs of “puffy” skins, then score as damage (when the skin 

separates from more than half of the fruit) and report as “badly puffy.” If all the skin has 

separated from the fruit, then score as serious damage and report as “extremely puffy.” 

However, in the No. 3 grade the fruit would have to be soft and extremely puffy, report very 

serious damage as “extremely puffy and soft.” If only extremely puffy, then do not score 

against the No.3 grade. 

When testing for firmness, place the fruit in the palm of your hand and squeeze gently. If 

the fruit “bounces back” it is considered firm. Fruit with thick skin may feel soft or spongy 

and still be considered firm. Do not score fruit if only a particular area is affected (refer to 

the Bruising section). The entire fruit must be affected before scoring against each grade. 

Report as “not firm,” “not fairly firm,” or “soft.” 

§51.696 Firm...as applied to common oranges, means that the fruit is not soft, or 

noticeably wilted or flabby; as applied to oranges of the Mandarin group (Satsuma, 

King, Mandarin), means that the fruit is not extremely puffy, although the skin may 

be slightly loose. 

§51.705 Fairly firm...as applied to common oranges, means that the fruit may be 

slightly soft, but not bruised; as applied to oranges of the Mandarin group 

(Satsuma, King, Mandarin) means that the fruit is not extremely puffy or the skin 

extremely loose. 

§51.710 Slightly spongy...the fruit is puffy or slightly wilted but not flabby. 

Scoring Guide 

U.S. Fancy and U.S. No. 1: When not meeting the requirements of firm score against the 

total tolerance for the grade applied and report as “Puffy.” 

U.S. No. 2: When not meeting the requirements for fairly firm, score against the total 

tolerance for the grade being applied and report as “Badly puffy.” 

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U.S. No. 3: When not meeting the requirements of slightly spongy, score against the total 

tolerance for the grade and report as “Extremely puffy.” 

If the fruit is flabby or soft, score as very serious damage against any grade. 

FREEZING INJURY (Q) (C) 

Fruit that is affected by freezing injury may exhibit the following characteristics: 

1. Segment walls have buckled at the cross section cut near the stem end; 

2. Watersoaked condition of the core; 

3. Mushy condition of segments or portions of segments; 

4. Dry portions of segments; and, 

5. Open spaces in the pulp. 

If frozen citrus is examined several days after thawing, it will usually have a white or 

colorless crystalline compound (hesperidin) on the membrane that separates the pulp 

segments. These crystals may be visible within a few hours of freezing. Several weeks 

after freezing, the crystals may not be as numerous or conspicuous. 

Dryness from freezing differs from granulation dryness that is attributed to tree dryness. 

After freezing, affected juice sacs collapse, having been emptied of juice. During 

granulation, juice sacs do not collapse; they become filled with gelatinous or solid matter. 

If a significant freeze occurs, inspectors will be notified, by Inspection Operations, to score 

freezing injury as a condition defect. When it is felt that practically no additional change to 

the fruit will occur in transit, a second notification will be issued, instructing inspectors to 

score freezing injury as a quality defect. 

When freezing injury is encountered, use the guidance provided in the Sampling for 

Internal Defects section and Cutting Instructions and Scoring Guide for Dryness-Mushy 

Condition. 

GRANULATION (TREE DRYNESS) (Q) 

Do not confuse freezing injury with granulation. Granulation can occur due to variety or 

growing conditions not related to freezing. 

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Juice sacs of granulated fruit remain swollen and do not separate from each other or the 

segment walls. The juice is displaced by yellow to grayish-white solid matter. Affected 

fruit will generally feel firm, but very light in weight. 

Granulation sometimes appears throughout all of the pulp of affected fruits, but more often 

only occurs in the upper or stem end portion. When dryness is of irregular depth in 

different segments, use the average depth as the basis for scoring. 

Use the guidance provided in the Sampling for Internal Defects section and Cutting 

Instructions and Scoring Guide for Dryness-Mushy Condition. 

GREEN SPOTS OR OIL SPOTS (Q) 

Green spots or oil spots occur as irregular shaped yellow, green, or brown spots in which 

the oil glands of the skin stand out because of slight sinking of the tissue between them. 

Scoring Guide 

Injury: When more than slightly affecting the appearance. 

Damage: When aggregating more than a circle 7/8 inch in diameter. 

Serious damage: When aggregating more than a circle 1-1/4 inches in diameter. 

Never very serious damage. 

HAIL (Q) 

Hail can appear as small pits or strikes on the surface of the fruit. 

Scoring Guide 

Injury: When not well healed or aggregating more than a circle 1/4 inch in diameter. 

Damage: When not well healed or aggregating more than a circle 3/8 inch in diameter. 

Serious damage: When not well healed or aggregating more than a circle 1/2 inch in 

diameter. 

Very serious damage: When not well healed or aggregating more than a circle 3/4 inch 

in diameter. 

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MATURITY (Q) 

The standards specify that the fruit must be mature. No maturity requirements are outlined 

in the grades, but the fruit must meet the minimum acid ratio test according to the 

standards set forth in the Texas Agriculture Code §21.21(2)(A). 

§51.693 Mature...shall have the same meaning currently assigned that term in the 

laws and regulations of the State in which the orange is grown; or as the definition 

of such term may hereafter be amended. 

Minimum Ratio of Soluble Solids to Anhydrous Citric Acid Chart 

Minimum Total Solids Percent Solids to Acid Minimum Ratio 

8.5 10.00 to 1 

9.0 9.00 to 1 

All Higher Solids 9.00 to 1 

As a general policy, make no mention on the certificate with reference to maturity unless 

there is a specific request for its determination. If such a request is made, contact the 

supervisor for instructions. If sampling for maturity is approved, and when a Brix (Solids)-

Acid Ratio Test is performed on a lot of citrus and the lot fails account of not meeting the 

required Brix (solids) to acid ratio, report the fact in the grade statement. For example, 

“Fails to grade U.S. No. 1 account maturity (Brix-acid ratio).” In the “Remarks” or “Other” 

section of the certificate, report the Brix-acid ratio that was determined. 

SCAB (Q) 

Scab appears as spongy, corky lesions which develop on the fruit surface. Parts of the 

surface may be covered by confluent lesions. 

Scoring Guide 

Score any amount against the U.S. Fancy grade. 

Damage: When materially detracts from the shape or texture, or aggregating more than a 

circle 5/8 inch in diameter. 

Serious damage: When seriously detracts from the shape or texture, or aggregating 

more than a circle 3/4 inch in diameter. 

Very serious damage: When aggregating more than 25% of the surface. 

Shipping Point and Market Inspection Instructions for Oranges and Grapefruit Grown in 

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SCALE (Q) 

Scale is an insect that measures 1.5 - 2.0 mm (0.06 - 0.08 in.) in length, has a semitranslucent, reddish-brown or reddish-grey, non-living, protective shield produced from 

glue-like excretions and previously-shed skins. The shield is typically flat and kidneyshaped. Oranges are affected by several types of scale; the most common type is the 

purple scale. All types should be reported as scale. In scoring scale, refer to the 

definitions of injury, damage, serious damage and very serious damage in the standards. 

Scoring Guide 

Injury: When more than a few adjacent to the “button” at the stem end, or more than 6 

scattered on other portions of the fruit. 

Damage: When aggregating more than a circle 5/8 inch in diameter. 

Serious damage: When aggregating more than a circle 3/4 inch in diameter. 

Very serious damage: When aggregating more than 25% of the surface. 

SCARS (Q) 

Scars are scored on the basis of depth and smoothness. If scars are superficial and 

smooth or fairly smooth, they are scored on the basis of discoloration (refer to the 

Discoloration section). 

Scoring Guide 

Injury: When depressed, not smooth, or detracts from the appearance more than the 

amount of discoloration permitted in the grade. 

Damage: When deep, rough or hard aggregating more than a circle 1/4 inch in diameter, 

slightly rough with slight depth aggregating more than a circle 7/8 inch in diameter, smooth 

or fairly smooth with slight depth aggregating more than a circle 1-1/4 inch in diameter. 

Serious damage: When deep, rough aggregating more than a circle 1/2 inch in diameter; 

slightly rough with slight depth aggregating more than a circle 1-1/4 inches in diameter. 

Very serious damage: When deep, rough, or unsightly so that appearance is very 

seriously affected. 

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SHAPE (Q) 

The normal shape for the variety must be considered in determining the correct terms in 

describing shape. Certain varieties are characteristically flat while other varieties tend to 

be oblong in shape. A fruit of a given shape may be well formed for one variety and only 

slightly misshapen for another variety. 

Use the following terms to describe shape: 

§51.697 Well formed...the fruit has the shape characteristic of the variety. 

§51.706 Slightly misshapen...the fruit is not of the shape characteristic of the variety 

but is not appreciably elongated or pointed or otherwise deformed. 

§51.709 Misshapen...the fruit is decidedly elongated, pointed or flat sided. 

Scoring Guide 

U.S. Fancy and U.S. No.1: When not meeting the requirements of well formed, score 

against the tolerance for permanent defects in the grade being applied and report as “Not 

well formed.” 

U.S. No 2: When not meeting the requirements for slightly misshapen, score against the 

tolerance for permanent defects in the grade being applied and report as “Misshapen.” 

U.S. No 3: When not meeting the requirements for misshapen, score against the 

tolerance for permanent defects and report as “Badly Misshapen.” 

SKIN INJURY (SKIN BREAKDOWN) (C) 

This defect category represents several factors that result in similar looking conditions 

affecting the skin. These can be drying, darkening, or sinking of the oil cells near the stem 

end or other places on the fruit. Stem end breakdown is a physiological condition caused 

by a loss of fruit moisture. Pitting is a physiological breakdown of the rind on the fruit 

shoulder. This contrasts with breakdown associated with aging, which occurs at the stem 

end. Storage pitting is another type of skin injury affecting citrus. When these, or other 

similar-appearing injuries occur, they will be described on the notesheet and certificate as 

“skin breakdown.” 

Scoring Guide 

Score any amount against the U.S. Fancy grade. 

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Damage: When aggregating more than a circle 1/4 inch in diameter. 

Serious damage: When aggregating more than a circle 5/8 inch in diameter. 

Very serious damage: When aggregating more than 25% of the surface of the fruit. 

SOOTY MOLD (Q) 

A fungus that adheres to excretions of White Fly or other insects causes this defect. It 

may occur as light deposits scattered over the surface of the fruit or as heavily 

concentrated areas at the stem end. Normal washing procedures usually do not remove 

all fungus deposits. It can be easily scraped with the finger or knife. 

Scoring Guide 

Injury: When more than slightly affecting the appearance of the fruit. 

Damage: When aggregating more than a circle 3/4 inch in diameter. 

Serious damage: When aggregating more than a circle 1-3/8 inches in diameter. 

Very serious damage: When aggregating more than 25% of the surface of the fruit. 

SPROUTED SEEDS (C) 

During the latter part of the season, cut a few specimens through the center to determine 

whether the seeds are sprouted. Normally the seeds do not show sprouts before the early 

part of March. Sprouted seeds, when present, will be treated like other condition factors. 

Scoring Guide 

Damage: When more than 6 seeds are sprouted, including not more than 2 sprouts 

extending to the rind, and the remainder averaging not over 1/4 inch in length. 

Serious damage: When more than 6 seeds are sprouted, including not more than 3 

sprouts extending to the rind, and the remainder averaging not over 1/2 inch in length. 

Very serious damage: More than 6 seeds are sprouted, including not more than 3 

sprouts extending to the rind, remainder average not over 3/4 inch in length. 

In determining the percentages of sprouted seeds, follow the sampling plans for internal 

defects outlined in the Cutting Plans for Internal Defects section. 

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STEM BUTTONS AND ATTACHED STEM LEAVES 

Stem buttons and attached stem-leaves are not defects and are not mentioned on the 

certificate unless specifically requested by the applicant. Upon request, the inspector may 

determine the percentage of fruit with stem buttons attached/missing or with 

attached/missing stems-leaves. Report findings in percentages or general terms in the 

“Description of Products” on the SC-184 or in the “Other” section of the SC-300. 

Reference the applicant’s request under “Remarks.” 

SPRAYBURN (Q) 

Fruit affected by Sprayburn has flat, hard darkened areas on the rind. In advanced stages, 

surface cracking may occur. Darkened areas are usually irregularly sized and reddish to 

dark brown. Due to its distinctive appearance, Sprayburn is easily identified and usually 

graded out at the packinghouse. 

Scoring Guide 

Score any amount against the U.S. Fancy and U.S. No. 1 grades. 

Serious damage: When hard, or aggregating more than a circle 1-1/4 inches in diameter. 

Very serious damage: When aggregating more than 25% of the fruit surface. 

SUNBURN (Q) 

Sunburn appears as a toughened area of the skin caused by exposure to intense sunlight. 

The area will usually have a bleached appearance or a deep yellow color and definite 

flattening of the fruit surface in the affected area. The yellow surface may have a brown or 

gray center where the surface cells have died. Flesh under the affected area will be dried 

out, containing little or no juice. 

Scoring Guide 

Damage: When skin is flattened, dry, darkened or hard, aggregating more than 25% of 

the surface. 

Serious damage: When affecting more than 1/3 of the surface, hard, decidedly onesided, or light brown and aggregating more than a circle 1-1/4 inches in diameter. 

Very serious damage: When aggregating more than 50% of the surface. 

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SPLIT ROUGH OR PROTRUDING NAVELS (Q) 

This defect generally occurs on navel oranges. Unhealed splits are scored against all 

grades. 

Scoring Guide 

Injury: When split is unhealed; navel protrudes beyond general contour; opening is so 

wide, growth so folded and ridged that it detracts noticeably from appearance. 

Damage: When split is unhealed, or more than 1/4 inch in length, or more than 3 well 

healed splits, or navel protrudes beyond the general contour, and opening is so wide, 

folded or ridged that it detracts materially from appearance. 

Serious damage: When split is unhealed, or more than 1/2 inch in length, or aggregate 

length of all splits exceed 1 inch, or navel protrudes beyond general contour, and opening 

is so wide, folded and ridged that it seriously detracts from appearance. 

Very serious damage: Score when split is unhealed, or fruit is very seriously weakened. 

TEXTURE (Q) 

Texture refers to the smoothness or roughness of skin that varies considerably with the 

size of the fruit and variety. Large sizes are normally rougher than small sizes for the 

same variety. Therefore, in reporting smooth and fairly smooth texture, the size of fruit 

and variety must be considered in determining the proper descriptive term. Thickness of 

skin can be annotated as it is closely related to texture. 

Use the following terms to describe texture: 

Smooth: Skin is thin and smooth for the variety and size of the fruit. 

Fairly smooth: The skin is not materially rough or coarse and that the skin is not thick for 

the variety. 

Slightly rough: Skin is not smooth or fairly smooth but is not excessively rough or 

excessively thick, or materially ridged, grooved or wrinkled. 

Rough: Skin is excessively rough or excessively thick, or materially ridged, grooved or 

wrinkled. 

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Scoring Guide 

U.S. Fancy: When not meeting the requirements of smooth, score against the permanent 

defect tolerance for the grade and report as “Not smooth.” 

U.S. No. 1: When not meeting the requirements of fairly smooth, score against the 

permanent defect tolerance for the grade and report as “Not fairly smooth.” 

U.S. No. 2: When not meeting the requirements of slightly rough, score against the 

permanent defect tolerance for the grade and report as “Rough.” 

U.S. No. 3: When not meeting the requirements of rough, score against the permanent 

defect tolerance for the grade and report as “Excessively rough.” 

THORN SCRATCHES (Q) 

Wind may cause fruit to rub against branches, twigs, thorns, or leaves, causing scratches 

and scars to develop. Unlike insect damage scars, this type of scar is usually superficial, 

and the shape or pattern of the scar may suggest the source of the abrasion. 

Scoring Guide 

Injury: When not slight, not well healed, or more unsightly than discoloration permitted in 

the grade. 

Damage: When not well healed, or hard concentrated thorn injury aggregating more than 

a circle 5/8 inch in diameter. 

Serious damage: When not well healed, or hard concentrated thorn injury aggregating 

more than a circle 3/4 inch in diameter. 

Very serious damage: When aggregating more than 25% of the surface. 

WORMY FRUIT (Q OR C) 

Wormy fruit is caused by Mexican fruit fly larvae and can be transported widely in infested 

fruit. The adult female fruit fly typically deposits eggs in citrus when the fruit begins to 

show color. Eggs are laid in groups of about 10 and hatch in 6 to 12 days. The newly 

hatched larvae eat and burrow into the pulp of the fruit, taking on the color of their food, so 

when small they may be easily overlooked. As they grow, the larva becomes white with 

the typical fruit fly larval shape: a long, rounded body, with the mouth end somewhat 

curved up. Many larvae may be found in a single fruit. When fully grown, the larvae 

emerge through visible exit holes. 

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Frequently fruit that has been infested with Mexican fruit fly larva is also soft or mushy, 

ensure that you cut any suspicious fruit. Use the guidance provided in the Sampling for 

Internal Defects section. 

There is no tolerance for wormy fruit, one fruit will fail the whole lot. In transit or at 

destination if live worm(s) are present or a combination of live and dead, report as a 

condition factor. Report as a quality factor if the worm(s) are dead. 

Since there is no tolerance for wormy fruit, report any percentage on the certificate, this 

includes less than whole percentages (-1/2, 1/2, and -1). A range will always be reported 

when wormy fruit are found. 

If the lot fails only account of wormy fruit, the grade statement should read: “Fails to grade 

U.S. No. 1 Account Quality or Condition (wormy fruit).” 

Scoring Guide 

Always very serious damage: Free from; score any amount in all grades. 

DECAY (C) 

Decay is a free from defect and any amount is scored. The most common types affecting 

citrus include Green Mold Rot, Blue Mold Rot, Brown rot, Sour Rot, and Stem End Rot. 

Scoring Guide 

Always very serious damage: Free from; score any amount against the 1% decay 

tolerance at shipping point and the 3% decay tolerance at market. 

On the certificate, report stages of decay as early, moderate, and advanced when in 

excess of the sample or lot tolerances (see General Market Manual for definitions). 

Shipping Point and Market Inspection Instructions for Oranges and Grapefruit Grown in 

Texas and States Other Than Florida, California, and Arizona. 

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GRAPEFRUIT IDENTIFICATION CHART 

Shipping Point and Market Inspection Instructions for Oranges and Grapefruit Grown in 

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PART II – GRAPEFRUIT 

GENERAL 

The U.S. Standards for Grades of Grapefruit (Texas and States other than Florida, 

California, and Arizona) apply to the common grapefruit, and varieties and hybrids of 

common grapefruit varieties. 

Oranges are covered by a separate U.S. grade standard and in Part I – Oranges of these 

instructions. 

Any portion of these instructions beginning with §51 and followed with bold print is 

material copied directly from the United States Standards for Grades of Grapefruit (Texas 

and States other than Florida, California, and Arizona). 

IMPORT CERTIFICATIONS AT PORT OF ENTRY 

Apply the U.S. Standards for Grades of Florida Grapefruit and Marketing Order §905.306 

(as referenced in the Grapefruit Import Regulations §944.106(c)). If you are unsure of any 

import regulation, contact your immediate supervisor or Inspection Operations for 

guidance. 

For inspections requested on imported fruit other than at port of entry, or when import 

requirements are not in effect, apply the grade standards the fruit most closely resembles 

(texture, thickness of skin, discoloration, and scarring). 

MARKETING ORDER 906 

Marketing Order §906.137 for Oranges and Grapefruit Grown in Lower Rio Grande Valley 

in Texas contains specific grades that may be marked on the containers. If containers are 

marked as such, they must meet the additional following requirements, or it could be 

considered misbranded and PACA should be notified. 

MO §906.137 (a)... the identifying marks “Texasweet”, “Sweeter By Nature”, “Texas 

Fancy”, and “Texas Choice” shall be available to handlers only under the following terms 

and conditions: 

(1) The identifying marks “Texasweet” and “Sweeter by Nature” may severally or jointly 

be affixed only to containers of grapefruit or to individual grapefruit comprising a lot 

which grades at least U.S. No. 1. 

(2) The identifying mark “Texas Fancy” may be affixed only to containers of grapefruit 

or to individual grapefruit comprising a lot which grades at least U.S. No. 1 with no 

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more than 40 percent of the surface of the grapefruit, in the aggregate, affected by 

discoloration. 

(3) The identifying mark “Texas Choice” may be affixed only to containers of grapefruit 

or to individual grapefruit comprising a lot which grades at least U.S. No. 2, with no 

more than 60 percent of the surface of the grapefruit, in the aggregate, affected by 

discoloration. 

For more complete instructions see Marketing Order 906. 

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 SAMPLES 

The sample size for Texas grapefruit is a minimum of 25 fruit for each sample, regardless 

of the size of the container. 

SHIPPING POINT 

In-line Certification 

Each sample will consist of 25 fruit. If containers have less than 25 fruit, examine a 

composite sample of 25 fruit. When a sample tolerances is exceeded, double the sample 

size. The lot average must never exceed the lot tolerance. 

The first sample examined must meet all lot tolerances. If three consecutive samples in a 

lot exceed a lot tolerance, a corrective action must be taken on the packed containers that 

are represented by the third sample. 

Stationary Lots 

Sampling for all lots will consist of 25 fruit. If containers have less than 25 fruit, examine a 

composite sample of 25 fruit. A minimum of 3 samples must be examined to certify a lot. 

If a lot tolerance is exceeded, double the sample size for containers containing 50 fruit or 

more, except for composite samples. If a sample tolerances is exceeded, examine the 

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entire contents of the container, except for bulk lots or bulk bins. These lots will be limited 

to a 100-count sample. 

MARKET 

For packages containing 25 fruit or more, examine a minimum of 25 fruit. When any 

sample tolerance is exceeded, examine the entire contents of at least one package which 

exceeded the sample tolerance. 

For packages containing less than 25 fruit, open a sufficient number of adjoining packages 

to obtain a minimum of 25 fruit. Use the entire contents for the sample when opening an 

adjoining package. For example, when fruit are packed in 5 lb. consumer bags (10 fruit 

per bag), open 3 bags (30 fruit sample). If a sample tolerance is exceeded using this 

method, do not double the sample size. The lot is out of grade because the sample 

tolerance was exceeded. 

SAMPLING BULK LOADS 

Since the carrier is the container, do not treat the variation found in bulk loads like similar 

variations found in packages when applying the rule of double or one and one-half times 

the tolerance. The load, as a general rule, is sold as a unit and is inspected as such. If it 

is divided by bulkheads or partitions, you may inspect it as separate units if the applicant 

identifies the units as being separate or if there is a material difference in the quality and 

condition of the units. Do not attempt to report a range or an average for bulk loads. See 

the General Market Manual. 

When determining the minimum number of sub-samples drawn from a bulk shipment, 

divide the load’s approximate net weight by the appropriate “packed net weight.” This 

calculation provides a 4/5-bushel equivalent. Example: net weight of a load is 

approximate 57,000 pounds; 57,000 ÷ 45 (packed net weight) = 1,267 cartons. Use the 

calculated carton equivalent as a guide when determining the number of sub-samples to 

be examined. 

Examine a minimum of 25 contiguous fruit per sub-sample. 

NUMBER OF SAMPLES 

SHIPPING POINT 

In-line Certification 

A minimum of one sample for every 200 containers packed or 1/2 of the 1% of the total 

containers packed. 

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Stationary Lots 

A minimum of 1% of the packages within the load or lot is recommended with a minimum 

of three sample examined on any lot. 

MARKET 

As a general guide the goal is to sample 1% of the containers in the lot. This number may 

be larger or smaller depending on the amount of defects in the lot. Very low or very high 

percentages of defects may change the sample number to less or more than 1%, 

respectively. Examine enough samples to ensure that the certificate issued will accurately 

describe the quality and condition of the lot. All unrestricted lots will have a minimum of 

three samples examined. Lots with less than three containers will have all containers 

examined to be considered unrestricted. For detailed guidance on the number of samples, 

refer to the General Market Manual. 

SAMPLING FOR INTERNAL DEFECTS 

The following plans are designed to provide efficient and accurate methods of sampling for 

internal defects in citrus. These defects include dryness-mushy condition (freezing injury), 

granulation (tree dryness), sprouted seeds, bruising or any other defect that cannot be 

detected or determined without cutting the fruit. 

There are two specific cutting plans. Plan A is used when internal defects are almost 

certain to be present, (e.g., immediately following a freeze or in late spring and summer 

months when granulation (tree dryness) is known to be a factor). Plan B is used when 

internal defects are suspected. Plan B detects internal defects while destroying a 

minimum amount of fruit. Both plans are based on the initial sample size of 25 fruit. 

Plan A – After the sample has been examined for external defects, select the 10 most 

suspicious fruit, without regard to external defects, and cut for internal defects. If no 

defects are found, do not cut any other specimens from that sample. Continue to cut 10 

fruit per sample provided no internal defects are found. If one or more internal defects are 

found, cut the remaining fruit in the sample to determine the percentage of internal defects: 

• Shipping Point: Do not deviate from the in-line certification sampling size. 

• Market: If sample tolerances are exceeded, the sample size must be at least 

doubled except for composite samples (50 fruit) or entire contents if less than 50 

fruit in the container. Continue to cut all fruit in each sample until a sample is found 

free from internal defects. Revert to cutting 10 fruit per sample when no internal 

defects are found. This does not apply to bagged lots because the entire contents 

of the bag have already been cut. 

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Plan B – is similar to Plan A; the only difference is that if no internal defects are found, 

Plan B requires cutting 10 fruit from every fourth sample. Cutting should start with the first 

sample and continue with every fourth sample thereafter. 

Select the 10 most suspicious fruit without regard to external defects from every fourth 

sample and cut them for internal defects. If no internal defects are found in the 10 fruit, 

continue to cut the 10 most suspicious fruit from every fourth sample. If one or more 

defects are found, cut the remaining fruit in the sample (25), unless the sample tolerances 

are exceeded. When exceeded, increase sample size to 50 fruit or entire contents if 

containing less than 50 fruit, and begin using Plan A (not applicable to bagged lots). Cut 

either 10 fruit or all fruit in the sample according to Plan A until 5 consecutive samples are 

free from internal defects. Revert to cutting 10 fruit from every fourth sample at this point: 

• Shipping Point: Do not deviate from the in-line certification sample size. 

• Market: If sample tolerances are exceeded, the sample size must be at least 

doubled (50 fruit or entire contents). 

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CUTTING PLAN FOR INTERNAL DEFECTS 

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CUTTING INSTRUCTIONS AND SCORING GUIDE FOR DRYNESS-MUSHY CONDITION 

Preliminary Cut: This cut is intended to remove only the rind down to the fleshy portion of 

the fruit under the stem button and will vary in depth depending on rind thickness. 

1st Slice: 1/4 inch in width. This slice may be totally dry or from mushy to dry in all 

segments. This is the maximum amount permitted in the U.S. Fancy and U.S. No. 1 

grade. If the total volume of this slice is affected, any dryness-mushy condition in the 

remaining portion of the fruit will be considered as damage. 

2nd Slice: 1/4 inch in width. This slice, plus the first slice (totaling 1/2 inch) may be totally 

dry or from mushy to dry in all segments. This represents the maximum volume permitted 

in the U.S. No. 2 grade. If the total volume of this slice is affected, dryness- mushy 

condition in the remaining portion of the fruit will be considered serious damage. 

3rd Slice: 1/4 inch in width. This 1/4 inch slice, plus the previous two slices (totaling 3/4 

inch) may be totally dry or from mushy to dry in all segments. This represents the 

maximum volume permitted in the U.S. No. 3 grade. If the total volume of this slice is 

affected, any dryness-mushy condition in the remaining portion of the fruit will be 

considered very serious damage. 

If any portions of the segments in the slice are not mushy or affected by dryness-mushy 

condition, additional mushiness or dryness may be allowed in other portions of the fruit, 

but the total amount must not exceed the equivalent volume permitted. If this is 

encountered, it will be necessary to cut several 1/4 inch slices to determine the total 

amount of dryness-mushiness present in the fruit. 

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TOLERANCES AND APPLICATION OF TOLERANCES 

TOLERANCES 

§51.628 Tolerances. 

In order to allow for variations incident to proper grading and handling in each of

the foregoing grades, the following tolerances, by count, based on a minimum 25 

count sample, are provided as specified. No tolerance shall apply to wormy fruit. 

(a) Defects. 

(1) U.S. Fancy, U.S. No. 1, U.S. No. 1 Bright, U.S. No. 1 Bronze, U.S. No. 2, 

and U.S. No. 2 Russet. 

(i) For defects at shipping point.

1 Not more than 10 percent of the 

fruit in any lot may fail to meet the requirements of the specified 

grade: Provided, That included in this amount not more than 5 

percent shall be allowed for defects causing very serious 

damage, including in this latter amount not more than 1 percent 

for decay. 

(ii) For defects en route or at destination. Not more than 12 percent 

of the fruit in any lot may fail to meet the requirements of the 

specified grade: Provided, That included in this amount not 

more than the following percentages shall be allowed for defects 

listed: 

(A) 10 percent for fruit having permanent defects; or, 

(B) 7 percent for defects causing very serious damage,

including therein not more than 5 percent for very serious 

damage by permanent defects and not more than 3 percent 

for decay. 

(2) U.S. Combination. 

(i) For defects at shipping point.

1 Not more than 10 percent of the 

fruit in any lot may fail to meet the requirements of the U.S. No. 2 

grade: Provided, That included in this amount not more than 

1 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 or overseas shipment, or, in the case of shipments from outside the continental United States, the port of entry into the 

United States. 

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5 percent shall be allowed for defects causing very serious 

damage, included in this latter amount not more than 1 percent 

for decay. 

(ii) For defects en route or at destination. Not more than 12 percent 

of the fruit in any lot, may fail to meet the requirements of the 

U.S. No. 2 grade: Provided, That included in this amount not 

more than the following percentages shall be allowed for defects 

listed: 

(A) 10 percent for fruit having permanent defects; or, 

(B) 7 percent for defects causing very serious damage,

including therein not more than 5 percent for very serious 

damage by permanent defects and not more than 3 percent 

for decay. 

(iii) For defects at shipping point

1 and en route or at destination. No 

part of any tolerance shall be allowed to reduce for the lot as a 

whole, the 55 percent of U.S. No. 1 fruit required in the U.S.

Combination grade, but individual samples may have not more 

than 15 percent less than the required percentage for the grade: 

Provided, That the entire lot averages within the percentage 

required. 

(3) U.S. No. 3. 

(i) 1 For defects at shipping point. Not more than 10 percent of the 

fruit in any lot may fail to meet the requirements of the grade: 

Provided, That included in this amount not more than 1 percent 

for decay. 

(ii) For defects en route or at destination. Not more than 12 percent 

of the fruit in any lot may fail to meet the requirements of the 

grade: Provided, That included in this amount not more than the 

following percentages shall be allowed for defects listed: 

(A) 10 percent for fruit having permanent defects; or, 

(B) 3 percent for decay. 

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(b) Discoloration. 

(1) U.S. No. 1, U.S. No. 1 Bright, U.S. Combination and U.S. No. 2. Not 

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

requirements relating to discoloration as specified in each grade; No 

sample may have more than 20 percent of the fruit with excessive 

discoloration: Provided, That the entire lot averages within the 

percentage specified. 

(2) U.S. No. 1 Bronze. At least 10 percent of the fruit shall have more than 

one-half of the surface, in the aggregate, affected by discoloration, and 

no part of any tolerance shall be allowed to reduce this percentage: 

Provided, That the entire lot averages within the percentage specified.

No tolerance is provided for fruit showing no discoloration. 

(3) U.S. No. 2 Russet. At least 10 percent of the fruit shall have more than

two-thirds of the surface, in the aggregate, affected by discoloration,

and no part of any tolerance shall be allowed to reduce this percentage: 

Provided, That the entire lot averages within the percentage specified. 

SUMMARY OF TOLERANCES 

Shipping Point 

U.S. 

Fancy 

U.S. No. 1 

U.S. No. 2 

U.S. Combination1 

U.S. 

No. 3 

Discoloration 

A. Discoloration2 N/A 10% N/A 

Defects 

B. Defects 10% 10% 10% 

C. Very Serious Damage (included in B) 5% 5% N/A 

D. Decay (included in B or C for U.S. No. 3) 1% 1% 1% 

E. Wormy fruit3 0% 0% 0% 

1 At least 55 percent of the fruit, by count, must meet the requirements of the U.S. No. 1 grade. 

2 Discoloration is a separate tolerance and is not included in total defects for U.S. No. 1, U.S. No. 2, and Combination grades. 

For the U.S. Fancy grade discoloration is part of total defects. 

3 There is no tolerance for wormy fruit. If any wormy fruit is found, the lot fails. 

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Market 

U.S. 

Fancy 

U.S. No. 1 

U.S. No. 2 

U.S. Combination1 

U.S. 

No. 3 

Discoloration 

A. Discoloration2 N/A 10% N/A 

Defects 

B. Defects 12% 12% 12% 

C. Permanent defects (included in B) 10% 10% 10% 

D. Very Serious Damage (included in B) 7% 7% N/A 

E. Very serious damage by permanent 

defects (included in D) 5% 5% N/A 

F. Decay (included in D or B for U.S. No. 3) 3% 3% 3% 

G. Wormy fruit3 0% 0% 0% 

1 At least 55 percent of the fruit, by count, must meet the requirements of the U.S. No. 1 grade. 

2 Discoloration is a separate tolerance and is not included in total defects for U.S. No. 1, U.S. No. 2, and Combination grades. 

For the U.S. Fancy grade discoloration is part of total defects. 

3 There is no tolerance for wormy fruit. If any wormy fruit is found, the lot fails. 

APPLICATION OF TOLERANCES 

§51.629 Application of tolerances. 

Individual samples are subject to the following limitations, unless otherwise 

specified in §51.628. Individual samples shall have not more than one and one-half 

times a specified tolerance of 10 percent or more, and not more than double a 

specified tolerance of less than 10 percent: Provided, That at least one decayed 

fruit may be permitted in any sample: And provided further, That the averages for 

the entire lot are within the tolerances specified for the grade. 

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SUMMARY OF APPLICATION OF TOLERANCES 

Shipping Point 

U.S. 

Fancy 

U.S. No. 1 

U.S. No. 2 

U.S. Combination1 

U.S. 

No. 3 

Discoloration 

A. Discoloration2 N/A 20% N/A 

Defects 

B. Defects 15% 15% 15% 

C. Very Serious Damage 

(included in B) 10% 10% N/A 

D. Decay (included in B or C for U.S. No. 3) 2% 2% 2% 

E. Wormy fruit3 0% 0% 0% 

1 At least 55 percent of the fruit, by count, must meet the requirements of the U.S. No. 1 grade, but individual samples may have not 

less than 40 percent U.S. No. 1 fruit. 

2 Discoloration is a separate tolerance and is not included in total defects for U.S. No. 1, U.S. No. 2, and Combination grades. 

For the U.S. Fancy grade discoloration is part of total defects. 

3 There is no tolerance for wormy fruit. If any wormy fruit is found, the lot fails. 

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Market 

U.S. 

Fancy 

U.S. No. 1 

U.S. No. 2 

U.S. Combination1 

U.S. 

No. 3 

Discoloration 

A. Discoloration2 N/A 20% N/A 

Defects 

B. Defects 18% 18% 18% 

C. Permanent defects (included in B) 15% 15% 15% 

D. Very Serious Damage 

(included in B) 14% 14% N/A 

E. Very serious damage by permanent 

defects (included in D) 10% 10% N/A 

F. Decay (included in D or B for U.S. No. 3) 6% 6% 6% 

G. Wormy fruit3 0% 0% 0% 

1 At least 55 percent of the fruit, by count, must meet the requirements of the U.S. No. 1 grade, but individual samples may have not 

less than 40 percent U.S. No. 1 fruit. 

2 Discoloration is a separate tolerance and is not included in total defects for U.S. No. 1, U.S. No. 2, and Combination grades. 

For the U.S. Fancy grade discoloration is part of total defects. 

3 There is no tolerance for wormy fruit. If any wormy fruit is found, the lot fails. 

NOTESHEET AND CERTIFICATE 

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

information appearing on the certificate with information from 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/SC-184) Handbook, or Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Inspection Certificate (FV/SC-300) 

Manual. Contact your supervisor for anything not covered in these instructions 

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PRODUCT 

Use the common name “Grapefruit” to describe this commodity in the product heading. 

Type may be reported in conjunction with grapefruit or may be reported in the “Lot ID” 

section on market notesheets and certificates. Do not certify variety. The variety may be 

reported in the “Remarks” or “Other” section if requested by applicant and clearly stated on 

cartons or containers. 

Do not certify grapefruit as “Red Seedless” or “Ruby Red” or “Star Ruby” or “Foster Pink” 

or “Thompson Pink.” If containers are so stamped, state this under the “Products, Brand” 

heading on the certificate. 

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. 

BRANDS/MARKINGS 

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. When “color added” is stamped on the container or fruit, also report it under this 

heading. 

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. When “color added” is stamped on the container or fruit, 

also report it under this heading. 

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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 

Judge pack according to both bulge and tightness of the pack. 

When Biphenyl or other treated wraps, pads or liners are specified in the contract and the 

inspector can determine this factor without any question or doubt, report this information 

under the Pack heading. “Crates lined with Biphenyl liners.” 

Report unusual conditions, such as excessively high bulge. Some packs may have a high 

bulge, but the pack will be loose; flat packs may be found with the fruit tight in the box. 

DESCRIPTION OF PACK 

Describe condition of pack for open or unlidded container in terms of fill. For other 

containers, apply terms describing tightness or fill depending upon the product and types 

of containers. 

FILLING OF CARTONS 

Use the following terms to describe the filling of cartons: 

Well filled: The carton is filled so that the fruit is in contact with the cover 

Level full: The fruit is level with the top edge of the container. 

Fairly well filled: The carton is filled so that the fruit is slightly below the top edge but no 

more than 1/2 inch below. 

Slack: The fruit is more than 1/2 inch below the top edge of the carton. This term should 

also be qualified by showing how much the fruit is below the top edge in inches or fraction 

of an inch. 

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TIGHTNESS OF PACK WITHIN LAYERS IN CARTONS 

Use the following terms to describe the tightness of pack within the layers in the carton: 

Tight: The fruit is tight enough in layers to prevent the specimens from moving materially 

within the package. 

Fairly tight: A condition between “tight” and “loose” in which there is excess of space 

within the layers but not sufficient space that an additional row of fruit can properly be 

added. 

Loose: There is sufficient space so that an additional row can properly be added to each 

layer within the container. 

Proper description of pack requires the use of terms for both filling and tightness. For 

example, “Well filled, tight in layers,” “fairly well filled, loose in layers” or other 

combinations in accordance with the facts. Cartons that are to be certified as meeting 

Standard Pack must be level full at time of packing. 

TIGHTNESS OF PACK WITHIN LAYERS IN WIRE-BOUND CRATES 

Use the following terms in describing the tightness of pack within the layers in wire-bound 

crates: 

Very tight: Pack is too tight and tends to cause injury. 

Tight: Both pack and bulge are satisfactory. 

Fairly tight: The condition between “tight” and “slack,” that is tight enough to prevent the 

specimens from moving within the container. 

Slack: The package is not full. Also, qualify this statement by showing how much the fruit 

is below the level of the lid in fractions of an inch or inches. 

Examples: Tight pack in most cases, many cases 1/2 inch slack to level full; Fairly tight, 

lids showing 1/2 to 1 inch bulge; Most cases well filled, many fairly well filled. 

In determining the tightness of wire-bound crates take into consideration whether the 

package is on a rigid surface or whether it is resting on the ends of other crates of fruit 

which might permit the bottom side to become convex. This would make the crate appear 

slack at the top while in reality it is fairly tight. 

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BULGE 

In reporting the height of the bulge, the measurement is the distance of the highest part 

of the curve of the lid above the level of the top edge of the ends of the container or the 

top side slats when they are flush with the tops of the ends. 

STANDARD PACK 

Standard Pack does not need to be determined on Market inspections unless requested 

by the applicant. Make certification of Standard Pack under the “Grade” heading in 

connection with the grade statement, but show the tightness of pack, and the uniformity 

of sizing, which are part of the requirements of Standard Pack, under the headings 

“Pack and Size.” A load may meet the requirements of the U.S. grades and not meet 

the requirements of “Standard Pack,” or vice versa. 

§51.630 Standard Pack 

(a) Fruit shall be fairly uniform in size, unless specified uniform in size... 

(b) “Fairly uniform in size” means that not more than 10 percent of fruit in any 

lot, and not more than double that amount in any sample, are outside the 

ranges of diameters given in Table I. 

Table 1 to §51.630 paragraph (b) – 7/10 Bushel Carton 

Pack size/number Diameter in inches 

of grapefruit Minimum Maximum 

18 4-15/16 5-9/16 

23 4-5/16 5 

27 4-2/16 4-12/16 

32 3-15/16 4-8/16 

36 3-13/16 4-5/16 

40 3-10/16 4-2/16 

48 3-9/16 3-14/16 

56 3-5/16 3-10/16 

64 3 3-8/16 

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(c) “Uniform in size” means that not more that 10 percent of fruit in any lot, 

and not more than double that amount in any sample, may vary more than 

the following amounts: 

(1) 32 size and smaller – not more than six-sixteenths inch in diameter; 

and, 

(2) 27 size and larger – not more than nine-sixteenths inch in diameter. 

(d) In order to allow for variations, other than sizing, incident to proper 

packing, not more than 5 percent of the packages in any lot may fail to

meet the requirements of standard pack. 

CONSUMER BAGS 

When consumer bags are used, even though these bags are packed in master 

containers, mark out the pack heading. 

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 

Size is not a requirement of the grade. A load may meet the requirements of the U.S. 

grades and fail to meet size. For market inspections, determine size if requested by the 

applicant, see the Standard Pack section. 

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MEASURING DIAMETER 

In measuring fruit for diameter, use the greatest dimension measured at right angles to 

a line from stem to blossom end of the fruit. Make these measurements with a rigid jaw 

caliper. Turn the fruit in the caliper to make sure that the greatest dimension is 

obtained. Do not use pliable fruit, which has been squeezed out of shape account of 

tight pack, in the sample for measurement. 

When performing inspections for size only, each size will be considered separately and 

treated as a separate lot. For detailed guidance on size, refer to the, see General 

Market Manual. 

SIZE MARKS ON CONTAINERS 

Report the size marks on the containers under the “Products” heading in connection 

with distinguishing marks. If they are not as marked, state the facts under the “Size” 

heading. Use general terms in describing the extent of incorrect markings. Make the 

actual certification of size and count under the “Size” heading even though the size and 

count markings on the containers are shown under the “Products” heading. 

DESCRIBING SIZE 

Use the terms “fairly uniform” or “uniform” if a lot meets size requirements, “irregular” if 

size requirements are not met. 

When it is necessary to report a size or lot as “irregular,” the number of fruit and the 

percentage which fails to meet the requirements of “fairly uniform” will be shown to 

justify the use of the term “irregular.” 

BULK SHIPMENTS OR CONSUMER BAG PACKS 

Request for inspection for size of bulk shipments or consumer bag packs will require the 

measurement of sufficient fruit to accurately determine the number of fruit below or 

above a specified minimum and maximum diameter. When a box size is specified, as 

for example, 40 size, determine the number of fruit less than 3-10/16 inches and above 

4-2/16 inches in diameter. No statement of box sizes will be made on the certificate 

covering inspection of bulk or bagged fruit. However, the size description can be given 

by stating the diameter range in inches and fractions thereof. In addition, report the 

range and average percentage of fruit under and above the specified minimum and 

maximum diameters. 

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DEFECTS (QUALITY AND CONDITION) 

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

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

Factors noted with (Q) are considered as QUALITY only. Quality 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 (e.g., bruising, discoloration, 

shriveling, and decay). 

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

depending on the circumstances. 

References to area or aggregate area, or length are based on a grapefruit 4-1/8 inches 

in diameter. Allowing proportionately greater areas on larger fruit and lesser areas on 

smaller fruit. 

AMMONIATION (Q) 

Ammoniation, also called exanthema, is a non-parasitic nutritional disease of the fruit, 

leaves, and twigs of citrus trees caused by a copper deficiency. It appears as dark 

brown, glossy spots on the rind of the fruit which can be of various sizes and shapes. 

Gum pockets can sometimes be found in the albedo of thick-skinned fruit when no 

symptoms appear on the surface. The surface spots or scars may be pimple-like and 

reddish-brown, coalescing to form large roughened areas on the fruit or they may be 

smooth and flat, or concave and rough. The rind can become hard and stiff. 

Ammoniation can be mistaken for melanose. The two can be distinguished by the fact 

that ammoniation originates in the tissues beneath the epidermis and appear to come 

up through the epidermis, while melanose is on the surface of the rind. 

Scoring Guide 

Score any amount against the U.S. Fancy grade. 

Damage: If not occurring as light speck type. 

Serious damage: When scars are cracked or dark and aggregating more than a circle 

3/4 inch in diameter. 

Very serious damage: When aggregating more than 25% of the surface. 

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BLOSSOM END CLEARING (C) 

This is a physiological disorder which appears as a watersoaked, translucent, blotchy 

area or areas occurring mostly around the blossom end, but may also appear 

elsewhere. It tends to be more prominent on thinner skinned seedless varieties. It is 

progressive and tends to occur late in the season, particularly following heavy rains that 

can increase the water content of the fruit. It is frequently followed by decay. 

Scoring Guide 

Damage: When area affected exceeds 3/4 inch. 

Serious damage: When area affected exceeds 1 inch or is discolored, or mushy. 

Very Serious damage: When aggregating more than a circle 1-1/2 inches in diameter 

or when the underlying flesh is discolored (any shade of brown) and mushy. 

BRUISING (C) 

Bruising after packing occurs because of jostling and movement in slack packs, 

pressure from too tight a pack, or overhead weight on lower layer packages. Bruises 

will have soft areas that, when cut, contain mushy areas in the underlying flesh. 

Affected fruit may be flattened on two or more sides. If the underlying flesh is not 

affected, these flattened areas may regain their shape. Do not score flattened areas 

unless the underlying flesh is mushy. 

The U.S. Standards for Grades of Grapefruit (Texas and States other than Florida, 

California and Arizona) require the U.S. Fancy, U.S. No. 1, U.S. No. 1 Bright, U.S. No.1 

Bronze, U.S. Combination, U.S. No. 2, and U.S. No. 2 Russet grades to be free from 

bruises. The U.S. No. 3 grade requires the fruit not be very seriously damaged by any 

other cause. 

Scoring Guide 

U.S. Fancy, U.S. No. 1, and U.S. No. 2 grades: When any amount of segment walls 

are collapsed, or rag is ruptured and juice sacs are ruptured, or areas are flattened to a 

point where they are so sunken that they cannot be restored into their original shape. 

Very serious damage: When fruit has been split open, peel is badly watersoaked 

following bruising, or rag is ruptured and juice sacs are ruptured causing a mushy 

condition affecting all segments more than 3/4 inch at bruised area or the equivalent of 

the amount, by volume, when affecting more than one area on the fruit. 

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Texas and States Other Than Florida, California, and Arizona. 

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BUCKSKIN (Q) 

Fruit affected by buckskin will have slightly roughened, grayish areas of abnormally 

thick rind. Buckskin is caused by citrus rust mites on immature fruit which is aggravated 

and extended by a surface-growing fungus following the mite injury. 

Scoring Guide 

Score any amount against the U.S. Fancy grade. 

Damage: When aggregating more than a circle 1-1/4 inches in diameter. 

Serious damage: When aggregating more than 25% of the surface. 

Very serious damage: When aggregating more than 50% of the surface. 

CAKED MELANOSE (Q) 

Melanose occurs as small brown raised spots, approximately pin head size. These 

spots may coalesce to form large scab-like patches known as “caked melanose”. When 

scattered over the fruit surface, they are scored as discoloration (speck type melanose). 

Melanose spots may also appear similar to tear staining. Tear staining is a form of rust 

mite discoloration with a smooth, diffused appearance. When encountered, score tear 

staining as discoloration. Melanose is easily distinguished from this defect by its brown 

glazed appearance, slightly raised texture, and distinct sandpapery feel. 

Scoring Guide 

Score any amount against the U.S. Fancy and U.S. No. 1 grades. 

Serious damage: When aggregating more than a circle 1 inch in diameter. 

Very serious damage: When aggregating more than 25% of the surface. 

CLUSTER RING (Q) 

Cluster rings occur as one of more smooth rings and/or roughened areas of various 

diameters on the stem end half of the fruit. This injury is the result of rust mite or orchid 

trips that feed in the shaded area created where fruit are in direct contact of where a 

leaf and the fruit touch. 

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When cluster rings occur as superficial smooth or fairly smooth areas on the fruit, report 

as “discoloration” and score against the discoloration tolerance. 

When cluster rings do not occur as superficially smooth-fairly smooth areas on the fruit, 

report as “cluster ring scars” and score against the general lot tolerance. 

As a guide score for the U.S. No. 2 grade, allow three fairly smooth dark brown to black 

halo circles, each 1-1/4 inches in diameter, which affect the appearance the same as 

one-half of the surface having a light shade of golden brown. Allow less diameter when 

the ring area is solid and more diameter when the ring area is lighter in color. 

As a guide, score cluster ring scars as damage when areas are raised and very rough 

aggregating more than a circle 1/2 inch in diameter; raised and rough aggregating more 

than a circle 1 inch in diameter; raised and slightly rough aggregating more than 10 

percent of the fruit surface. 

Score cluster ring scars as serious damage when areas are raised and very rough, 

aggregating more than a circle 1 inch in diameter; raided and rough aggregating more 

than 5 percent of the fruit surface; raised and slightly rough aggregating more than 15 

percent of the fruit surface. 

Score cluster ring scars as very serious damage when raised or very rough or unsightly 

to the point that the appearance is very seriously affected. 

When areas occur slightly raised and rough with a grayish to light brown color; which 

will not take a sheen after the waxing-polishing process, report as cluster ring scars and 

score on the following basis: 

Scoring Guide 

Damage: When aggregating more than a circle 1-1/4 inches in diameter. 

Serious damage: When aggregating more than 25 percent of the surface. 

Very serious damage: When aggregating more than 50 percent of the surface. 

COLOR (Q) 

“Color” refers to the amount of external yellow color present. It does not relate to 

discoloration caused by rust mite, speck type melanose, and smooth-fairly smooth 

superficial scars. When determining color, judge only that part of the fruit not affected 

by discoloration. Color must be judged in normal daylight. Fruit appears greener under 

artificial light or in a poorly lighted area. 

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§51.633 Well colored...the fruit is yellow or orange in color with practically no 

trace of green color. 

§51.639 Fairly well colored...except for a 1-inch circle in the aggregate of green 

color, the yellow or orange color predominates over the green color on that part 

of the fruit which is not discolored. 

§51.647 Slightly colored...except for a 2-inch circle in the aggregate of green 

color, the portion of the fruit surface which is not discolored shows some yellow 

color. 

Scoring Guide 

U.S. Fancy: If the fruit does not meet the definition of “well colored,” report as “Not well 

colored.” 

U.S. No. 1: If the fruit does not meet the definition of “fairly well colored,” report as “Not 

fairly well colored.” 

U.S. No 2: If the fruit does not meet the definition for “slightly colored,” report as “Poorly 

colored.” 

U.S. No. 3: May be poorly colored but score when more than 25% of the surface is of a 

solid dark green color. 

COLOR ADDED 

Do not mention on the certificate the degree of color attained after a color added 

process. It should be reported under “Brands and Markings” if the containers are 

stamped color added. 

COLOR OF FLESH 

The color of flesh may be reported at applicants request but is not a factor of the grade. 

State in the remarks “color of flesh determined and reported at applicant’s request.” 

Example: “Flesh mostly faded red, some red color.” 

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CREASING (Q) (C) 

There are three citrus fruit-creasing/cracking patterns, including flavedo-splitting, innercracking and albedo-splitting, also called fruit creasing or pitting. This can appear as a 

transparent irregular pattern of the rind caused by the thickening peel. 

Creasing severity does not increase after harvest, Creases in fruit that are subjected to 

hot solutions, such as color added treatment, tend to become more apparent. 

MARKET 

Creasing is scored as a quality factor unless the fruit is color added. If the fruit or 

containers are marked “color added” score all creasing as a condition factor. 

Scoring Guide 

Damage: When materially weakens the skin, or extends over more than 1/3 of the 

surface. 

Serious damage: When seriously weakens the skin, or extends over more than 1/2 of 

the surface. 

Very serious damage: When very seriously weakens the skin, or is distributed over 

practically the entire surface. 

DISCOLORATION (Q) 

Use the term “Excessive discoloration” to describe discoloration which affects the 

appearance more than the amount permitted for the grade. Report excessive 

discoloration separately from other quality defects except in the U.S. Fancy grade. 

Discoloration is defined in the standards and is based on the aggregate area of 

russeting of a light shade to golden brown. Discoloration of a lighter shade of color may 

be permitted on a greater area and darker shades of color will be restricted to a lesser 

area. 

§51.620 U.S. Fancy...(a) Basic requirements: (1) Discoloration: Not more than 

one-tenth of the surface, in the aggregate, may be affected by discoloration. 

(See §51.638.) 

§51.621 U.S. No. 1...(a) Basic requirements: (1) Discoloration: Not more than 

one-half of the surface, in the aggregate, may be affected by discoloration. 

(See §51.638.) 

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§51.622 U.S. No. 1 Bright...no fruit may have more than one-tenth of its surface, in 

the aggregate, affected by discoloration. (a) For tolerances see §51.628. 

§51.623 U.S. No. 1 Bronze...all fruit must show some discoloration and at least 10 

percent, by count, of the fruit shall have more than one-half of their surface, in the 

aggregate, affected by discoloration. The predominating discoloration on each of 

these fruits shall be of rust mite type. For tolerances see §51.628. 

§51.624 U.S. Combination....the lot meets the basic requirement for discoloration 

as specified in the U.S. No. 2 grade. For tolerances see §51.628. 

§51.625 U.S. No. 2...(a) Basic requirements: (1) Discoloration: Not more than 

two-thirds of the surface, in the aggregate, may be affected by discoloration.

(See §51.638.) 

§51.626 U.S. No. 2 Russet...at least 10 percent of the fruit shall have more than

two-thirds of their surface, in the aggregate, affected by any type of discoloration. 

For tolerances see §51.628. 

§51.638 Discoloration... russeting of light shade of golden brown caused by rust 

mite or other means. Lighter shades of discoloration caused by smooth or fairly 

smooth, superficial scars or other means may be allowed on a greater area, or 

darker shades may be allowed on a lesser area, provided no discoloration caused 

by speck type melanose or other means may detract from the appearance of the 

fruit to a greater extent than the shade and amount of discoloration allowed in the 

grade. 

DISCOLORATION TOLERANCES 

§51.628 Tolerances... 

(b) Discoloration. 

(1) U.S. No. 1, U.S. No. 1 Bright, U.S. Combination, and U.S. No. 2. Not 

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

requirements relating to discoloration as specified in each grade; No 

sample may have more than 20 percent of the fruit with excessive 

discoloration: Provided, That the entire lot averages within the 

percentage specified. 

(2) U.S. No. 1 Bronze. At least 10 percent of the fruit shall have more 

than one-half of the surface, in the aggregate, affected by 

discoloration, and no part of any tolerance shall be allowed to reduce 

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this percentage: Provided, That the entire lot averages within the 

percentage specified. No tolerance is provided for fruit showing no 

discoloration. 

(3) U.S. No. 2 Russet. At least 10 percent of the fruit shall have more 

than two-thirds of the surface, in the aggregate, affected by 

discoloration, and no part of any tolerance shall be allowed to reduce 

this percentage: Provided, That the entire lot averages within the 

percentage specified. 

SUMMARY OF DISCOLORATION TOLERANCES 

The predominating type of discoloration on U.S. No.1 Bronze fruit shall be of rust mite 

type. 

The predominating type of discoloration on U.S. No. 2 Russet may be any type of 

discoloration. 

Shipping Point and Market 

Grade 

Surface 

Area 

Allowed 

Surface 

Area 

Required 

Tolerance Sample 

Tolerance 

U.S. Fancy 1/10 — 1 1 

U.S. No.1 1/2 — 10% 20% 

U.S.No.1 Bright 1/10 — 10% 20% 

U.S. No. 1 Bronze2 

— 1/2 At least 10% 

No less than 

5% in 

individual 

sample 

U.S. Combination — — 10% 20% 

U.S. No. 2 2/3 — 10% 20% 

U.S. No. 2 Russet3 

— 2/3 At least 10% 

No less than 

5% in 

individual 

sample 

1 Discoloration for the U.S. Fancy grade is included in the total tolerance for defects. 

2 For U.S. No. 1 Bronze the predominating type of discoloration on each fruit shall be of rust mite type. All fruit must show some 

discoloration. No tolerance shall apply to fruit showing no discoloration. 

3 For U.S. No. 1 Russet the predominating type of discoloration may be of any type. All fruit must show some discoloration. No 

tolerance shall apply to fruit showing no discoloration. 

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FIRMNESS (C) 

When testing for firmness, place the fruit in the palm of your hand and squeeze gently. 

If the fruit “bounces back” it is considered firm. Fruit with thick skin may feel soft or 

spongy and still be considered firm. Do not score fruit if only a particular area is 

affected (refer to Bruising section). The entire fruit must be affected before scoring 

against each grade. Report as “not firm,” “not fairly firm,” or “soft.” 

§51.634 Firm...the fruit is not soft, or noticeably wilted or flabby; and the skin is 

not spongy or puffy. 

§51.643 Fairly firm...the fruit may be slightly soft, but not bruised; and the skin is 

not spongy or puffy. 

§51.649 Slightly spongy...the fruit is puffy or slightly wilted but not flabby. 

Scoring Guide 

U.S. Fancy and U.S. No. 1: When not meeting the requirements of firm score against 

the total tolerance for the grade applied and report as “Puffy.” 

U.S. No. 2: When not meeting the requirements for fairly firm, score against the total 

tolerance for the grade being applied and report as “Badly puffy.” 

U.S. No. 3: When not meeting the requirements of slightly spongy, score against the 

total tolerance for the grade and report as “Extremely puffy.” 

If the fruit is flabby or soft, score as very serious damage against any grade. 

FREEZING INJURY (Q) (C) 

Fruit that is affected by freezing injury may exhibit the following characteristics: 

1. Segments have buckled at the cross section cut near the stem end; 

2. Watersoaked condition of the core; 

3. Mushy condition of segments or portions of segments; 

4. Dry portions of segments; and, 

5. Open spaces in the pulp. 

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If frozen citrus is examined several days after thawing, it will usually have a white or 

colorless crystalline compound (hesperidin) on the membrane that separates the pulp 

segments. These crystals may be visible within a few hours of freezing. Several weeks 

after freeing, the crystals my not be as numerous or conspicuous. 

Dryness from freezing differs for granulation dryness that is attributed to tree dryness. 

After freezing, affected juice sacs collapse, having be emptied of juice. During 

granulation, juice sacs do not collapse; they become filled with gelatinous or solid 

matter. 

If a significant freeze occurs, inspectors will be notified, by Inspection Operations, to 

score freezing injury as a condition defect. When it is felt that practically no additional 

change to the fruit will occur in transit, a second notification will be issued, instruction 

inspectors to score freezing injury as a quality defect. 

When freezing injury is encountered, use the guidance provided in the Sampling for 

Internal Defects section and Cutting Instructions and Scoring Guide for Dryness-Mushy 

Condition. 

DRYNESS OR MUSHY CONDITION (Q) (C) 

Depth of dryness or mushy conditions specified is for all segments at the stem-end, or 

the equivalent of this amount, by volume, when occurring in other portions of the fruit. 

If segment membrane walls show buckling, at a cross section cut near the stem-end of 

the fruit, the lot should be closely examined for further injury such as: 

1. Watersoaked condition of the core; 

2. Mushy condition of segments or portions of segments; 

3. Partly dry or dry portions of segment; and, 

4. Open spaces in the pulp. 

If any of the preceding conditions, or any combination of these conditions, is present 

and is the equivalent of more than the first 1/4 inch slice at the stem end, the fruit is 

damaged. Use the guidance provided in the Sampling for Internal Defects section and 

Cutting Instructions and Scoring Guide for Dryness-Mushy Condition. 

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GRANULATION (TREE DRYNESS) (Q) 

Do not confuse freezing injury with granulation. Granulation can occur due to variety or 

growing conditions not related to freezing. 

Juice sacs of granulated fruit remain swollen and do not separate from each other or the 

segment walls. The juice is displaced by yellow to grayish-white solid matter. Affected 

fruit will generally feel firm, but very light in weight. 

Granulation sometimes appears throughout all of the pulp of affected fruits, but more 

often only occurs in the upper or stem end portion. When dryness is of irregular depth 

in different segments, use the average depth as the basis for scoring. 

Use the guidance provided in the Sampling for Internal Defects section and Cutting 

Instructions and Scoring Guide for Dryness-Mushy Condition. 

GREEN SPOTS OR OIL SPOTS (Q) 

Green spots or oil spots occur as irregular shaped yellow, green, or brown spots in 

which the oil glands of the skin stand out because of slight sinking of the tissue between 

them. 

Scoring Guide 

Injury: When more than slightly affecting the appearance. 

Damage: When aggregating more than a circle 1inch in diameter. 

Serious damage: When aggregating more than a circle 1-1/2 inches in diameter. 

Never score as very serious damage. 

HAIL (Q) 

Hail can appear as small pits or strikes on the surface of the fruit. 

Scoring Guide 

Injury: When not well healed or aggregating more than a circle 3/8 inch in diameter. 

Damage: When not well healed or aggregating more than a circle 1/2 inch in diameter. 

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Serious damage: When not well healed or aggregating more than a circle 5/8 inch in 

diameter. 

Very serious damage: When not well healed or aggregating more than a circle 1 inch 

in diameter. 

MATURITY (Q) 

§51.631 Mature...shall have the same meaning currently assigned that term in the 

laws and regulations of the State in which the grapefruit is grown; or as the 

definition of such term may hereafter be amended. 

The standards specify that the fruit must be mature. No maturity requirements are 

outlined in the grades, but the fruit must meet the minimum acid ratio test according to 

the standards set forth in the Texas Agriculture Code §21.21(1)(A). 

Minimum Ratio of Soluble Solids to Anhydrous Citric Acid Chart 

Minimum Total Solids Percent Solids to Acid Minimum Ratio 

8.5 10.00 to 1 

9.0 9.00 to 1 

All Higher Solids 9.00 to 1 

As a general policy, do not mention maturity on the certificate unless requested by the 

applicant. If such a request is made contact supervisor for instructions. If sampling for 

maturity is approved, and when a Brix (Solids)-Acid Ratio Test is performed on a lot of 

citrus and the lot fails account of not meeting the required Brix (solids) to acid ratio, 

report the fact in the grade statement. For example, “Fails to grade U.S. No. 1 account 

maturity (Brix-acid ratio).” In the “Remarks” or “Other” section of the certificate, report 

the Brix-acid ration that was determined. 

SCAB (Q) 

Scab appears as spongy, corky lesions which develop on the fruit surface. Parts of the 

surface may be covered by confluent lesions. 

Scoring Guide 

Score any amount against the U.S. Fancy grade. 

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Damage: When materially detracts from the shape or texture, or aggregating more 

than a circle 3/4 inch in diameter. 

Serious damage: When seriously detracts from the shape or texture, or aggregating 

more than a circle 1 inch in diameter. 

Very serious damage: When aggregating more than 25% of the surface. 

SCALE (Q) 

Scale is an insect that measures 1.5 - 2.0 mm (0.06 - 0.08 in.) in length, has a semitranslucent, reddish-brown or reddish-grey, non-living, protective shield produced from 

glue-like excretions and previously-shed skins. The shield is typically flat and kidneyshaped. Grapefruit are affected by several types of scale; the most common type is the 

purple scale. 

Scoring Guide 

Injury: When more than a few adjacent to the “button” at the stem end, or more than 6 

scattered on other portions of the fruit. 

Damage: When aggregating more than a circle 3/4 inch in diameter, or occurring in a 

ring more than a circle 1-1/4 inches in diameter. 

Serious damage: When aggregating more than a circle 1 inch in diameter, or 

occurring in a ring more than a circle 1-1/2 inches in diameter. 

Very serious damage: When aggregating more than 25% of the surface. 

SCARS (Q) 

Scars are scored on the basis of depth and smoothness. If scars are superficial and 

smooth or fairly smooth, they are scored on the basis of discoloration (refer to the 

Discoloration section). 

Scoring Guide 

Injury: When depressed, not smooth, or detracts from the appearance more than the 

amount of discoloration permitted in the grade. 

Damage: When very deep or rough aggregating more than a circle 1/2 inch in 

diameter, deep or rough aggregating more than 1 inch in diameter; slightly rough or of 

slight depth aggregating more than 10% of the surface. 

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Serious damage: When very deep or rough aggregating more than a circle 1 inch in 

diameter; deep or rough aggregating more than more than 5% of the fruit surface; slight 

depth or slightly rough aggregating more than 15% of the surface. 

Very serious damage: When very deep or very rough, or unsightly so that appearance 

is very seriously affected. 

SEED COUNT 

At the applicant’s request, the range and number of seeds per fruit can be certified. To 

determine the number of seeds, cut a composite sample of 5 or 10 fruit from each 

sample and report findings in the “Remarks” section. The number of seeds is not a 

grade factor. 

SHAPE (Q) 

The normal shape for the variety must be considered in determining the correct terms in 

describing shape. Certain varieties are characteristically flat while other varieties tend 

to be oblong in shape. A fruit of a given shape may be well formed for one variety and 

only slightly misshapen for another variety. 

Use the following terms to describe shape: 

§51.635 Well formed...the fruit has the shape characteristic of the variety. 

§ 51.640 Fairly well formed...the fruit may not have the shape characteristic of the

variety but is not elongated or pointed or otherwise deformed. 

§51.644 Slightly misshapen...the fruit is not of the shape characteristic of the 

variety but is not appreciably elongated or pointed or otherwise deformed. 

§51.648 Misshapen...the fruit is decidedly elongated, pointed or flat sided. 

Scoring Guide 

U.S. Fancy: When not meeting the requirements of well formed, score against the 

tolerance for permanent defects and report as “Not well formed.” 

U.S. No.1: When not meeting the requirements of fairly well formed, score against the 

tolerance for permanent defects in the grade being applied and report as “Not fairly well 

formed.” 

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U.S. No 2: When not meeting the requirements for slightly misshapen, score against 

the tolerance for permanent defects in the grade being applied and report as 

“Misshapen.” 

U.S. No 3: When not meeting the requirements for misshapen, score against the 

tolerance for permanent defects and report as “Badly Misshapen.” 

SKIN INJURY (SKIN BREAKDOWN) (C) 

This defect category represents several factors that result in similar looking conditions 

affecting the skin. These can be drying, darkening, or sinking of the oil cells near the 

stem end or other places on the fruit. Stem end breakdown is a physiological condition 

caused by a loss of fruit moisture. Pitting is a physiological breakdown of the rind on 

the fruit shoulder. This contrasts with breakdown associated with aging, which occurs 

at the stem end. Storage pitting is another type of skin injury affecting citrus. When 

these, or other similar-appearing injuries occur, they will be described on the notesheet 

and certificate as “skin breakdown.” 

Scoring Guide 

Score any amount against the U.S. Fancy grade. 

Damage: When aggregating more than a circle 3/8 inch in diameter. 

Serious damage: When aggregating more than a circle 5/8 inch in diameter. 

Very serious damage: When aggregating more than a circle 1-1/4 inches in diameter. 

SOOTY MOLD (Q) 

A fungus that adheres to excretions of White Fly or other insects causes this defect. It 

may occur as light deposits scattered over the surface of the fruit or as heavily 

concentrated areas at the stem end. Normal washing procedures usually do not 

remove all fungus deposits. It can be easily scraped with the finger or knife. 

Scoring Guide 

Injury: When more than slightly affecting the appearance of the fruit. 

Damage: When aggregating more than a circle 3/4 inch in diameter. 

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Serious damage: When aggregating more than a circle 1-3/8 inches in diameter. 

Very serious damage: When aggregating more than 25% of the surface of the fruit. 

SPRAYBURN (Q) 

Fruit affected by Sprayburn has flat, hard darkened areas on the rind. In advanced 

stages, surface cracking may occur. Darkened areas are usually irregularly sized and 

reddish to dark brown. Due to its distinctive appearance, Sprayburn is easily identified 

and usually graded out at the packinghouse. 

Scoring Guide 

Score any amount against the U.S. Fancy and U.S. No. 1 grades. 

Serious damage: When hard, or aggregating more than a circle 1-1/4 inches in 

diameter. 

Very serious damage: When aggregating more than 25% of the fruit surface. 

SPROUTED SEEDS (C) 

During the latter part of the season, inspectors should cut a few specimens through the 

center to determine whether the seeds are sprouted. Normally the seeds do not show 

sprouts before the early part of March. Sprouted seeds, when present, will be treated 

like other condition factors. 

Scoring Guide 

Damage: When more than 6 seeds are sprouted, including not more than 1 sprouts 

extending to the rind, and the remainder averaging not over 1/4 inch in length. 

Serious damage: When more than 6 seeds are sprouted, including not more than 2 

sprouts extending to the rind, and the remainder averaging not over 1/2 inch in length. 

Very serious damage: More than 6 seeds are sprouted, including not more than 3 

sprouts extending into the rind, and the remainder averaging not over 3/4inch in length. 

In determining the percentages of sprouted seeds, follow the sampling plans for internal 

defects outlined in the Cutting Plans for Internal Defects section. 

Shipping Point and Market Inspection Instructions for Oranges and Grapefruit Grown in 

Texas and States Other Than Florida, California, and Arizona. 

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STEM BUTTONS AND ATTACHED STEMS-LEAVES 

Stem buttons and attached stem-leaves are not defects and do not mention on the 

certificate unless specifically requested by the applicant. Upon request, the inspector 

may determine the percentage of fruit with stem buttons attached/missing or with 

attached/missing stems-leaves. Report findings in percentages or general terms in the 

“Description of Products” on the SC-184 or in the “Other” section of the SC-300. 

Reference the applicant’s request under “Remarks.” 

SUNBURN (Q) 

Sunburn appears as a toughened area of the skin caused by exposure to intense 

sunlight. The area will usually have a bleached appearance or a deep yellow color and 

definite flattening of the fruit surface in the affected area. The yellow surface may have 

a brown or gray center where the surface cells have died. Flesh under the affected 

area will be dried out, containing little or no juice. 

Scoring Guide 

Score any amount against the U.S. Fancy grade. 

Damage: When skin is flattened, dry, darkened or hard, aggregating more than 25% of 

the surface. 

Serious damage: When skin is hard, fruit is decidedly one-sided, aggregating more 

than 1/3 of the surface. 

Very serious damage: When aggregating more than 50% of the surface. 

TEXTURE (Q) 

Texture refers to the smoothness or roughness of skin that varies considerably with the 

size of the fruit and variety. Large sizes are normally rougher than small sizes for the 

same variety. Therefore, in reporting smooth and fairly smooth texture, the size of fruit 

and variety must be considered in determining the proper descriptive term. Thickness 

of skin can be annotated as it is closely related to texture. 

Use the following terms to describe texture: 

Smooth: Skin is thin and smooth for the variety and size of the fruit. 

Fairly smooth: The skin is not materially rough or coarse and that the skin is not thick 

for the variety. 

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Slightly rough: Skin is not smooth or fairly smooth but is not excessively rough or 

excessively thick, or materially ridged, grooved or wrinkled. 

Rough: Skin is excessively rough or excessively thick, or materially ridged, grooved or 

wrinkled. 

Scoring Guide 

U.S. Fancy: When not meeting the requirements of smooth, score against the 

permanent defect tolerance for the grade and report as “Not smooth.” 

U.S. No. 1: When not meeting the requirements of fairly smooth, score against the 

permanent defect tolerance for the grade and report as “Not fairly smooth.” 

U.S. No. 2: When texture is more than slightly rough, score against the permanent 

defect tolerance for the grade and report as “Rough.” 

U.S. No. 3: When having rough texture that is very seriously detracting from the 

appearance, score against the permanent defect tolerance for the grade and report as 

“Excessively rough.” 

THORN SCRATCHES (Q) 

Wind may cause fruit to rub against branches, twigs, thorns, or leaves, causing 

scratches and scars to develop. Unlike insect damage scars, this type of scar is usually 

superficial, and the shape or pattern of the scar may suggest the source of the abrasion. 

Scoring Guide 

Injury: When not slight, not well healed, or more unsightly than discoloration permitted 

in the grade. 

Damage: When not well healed, hard concentrated thorn injury aggregating more than 

a circle 3/4 inch in diameter or slight scratches aggregating more than a circle 1 inch in 

diameter. 

Serious damage: When not well healed, hard concentrated thorn injury aggregating 

more than a circle 7/8 inch in diameter or slight scratches aggregating more than a 

circle 1-1/4 inch in diameter. 

Very serious damage: When aggregating more than 25% of the surface. 

Shipping Point and Market Inspection Instructions for Oranges and Grapefruit Grown in 

Texas and States Other Than Florida, California, and Arizona. 

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WORMY FRUIT (Q) (C) 

Wormy fruit is caused by Mexican fruit fly larvae and can be transported widely in 

infested fruit. The adult female fruit fly typically deposits eggs in citrus when the fruit 

begins to show color. Eggs are laid in groups of about 10 and hatch in 6 to 12 days. 

The newly hatched larvae eat and burrow into the pulp of the fruit, taking on the color of 

their food, so when small they may be easily overlooked. As they grow, the larva 

becomes white with the typical fruit fly larval shape: a long, rounded body, with the 

mouth end somewhat curved up. Many larvae may be found in a single fruit. When 

fully grown, the larvae emerge through visible exit holes. 

Frequently fruit that has been infested with Mexican fruit fly larva is also soft or mushy, 

ensure that you cut any suspicious fruit. Use the guidance provided in the Sampling for 

Internal Defects section. 

There is no tolerance for wormy fruit, one fruit will fail the whole lot. In transit or at 

destination if live worm(s) are present or a combination of live and dead, report as a 

condition factor. Report as a quality factor if the worm(s) are dead. 

Since there is no tolerance for wormy fruit, report any percentage on the certificate, this 

includes less than whole percentages (-1/2, 1/2, and -1). A range will always be 

reported when wormy fruit are found. 

If the lot fails only account of wormy fruit, the grade statement should read: “Fails to 

grade U.S. No. 1 Account Quality or Condition (wormy fruit).” 

Scoring Guide 

Always very serious damage: Free from; score any amount in all grades. 

DECAY (C) 

Decay is a free from defect and any amount is scored as very serious damage. The 

most common types affecting citrus include Green Mold Rot, Blue Mold Rot, Brown rot, 

Sour Rot, and Stem End Rot. 

Scoring Guide 

Always very serious damage: Free from; score any amount against the 1% decay 

tolerance at shipping point and the 3% decay tolerance at market. 

On the certificate, report stages of decay as early, moderate, and advanced when in 

excess of the sample or lot tolerances (see General Market Manual for definitions). 

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APPENDIX I – NOTESHEET AND CERTIFICATE EXAMPLES 

EXAMPLE 1 – FV/SC-300 NOTESHEET (FRONT) – ORANGES 

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Texas and States Other Than Florida, California, and Arizona. 

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EXAMPLE 1 – FV/SC- 300 NOTESHEET (BACK) – O RANGES 

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Texas and States Other Than Florida, California, and Arizona. 

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EXAMPLE 1 – FV/SC- 300 CERTIFICATE –ORANGES 

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Texas and States Other Than Florida, California, and Arizona. 

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EXAMPLE 2 – FV/SC- 300 NOTESHEET (FRONT) – G RAPEFRUIT 

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Texas and States Other Than Florida, California, and Arizona. 

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EXAMPLE 2 – FV/SC- 300 NOTESHEET (BACK) – G RAPEFRUIT 

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Texas and States Other Than Florida, California, and Arizona. 

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EXAMPLE 2 – FV/SC- 300 CERTIFICATE –GRAPEFRUIT 

Shipping Point and Market Inspection Instructions for Oranges and Grapefruit Grown in 

Texas and States Other Than Florida, California, and Arizona. 

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