Grading is a voluntary service paid for by poultry processors. U.S. Inspected Poultry Inspection refers to wholesomeness of poultry or poultry products and their fitness for human food.
Inspection is mandatory and required by law.
The product and processing plants premises, equipment, and facilities are inspected to ensure that poultry and poultry products are processed under sanitary conditions. Inspection involves only those properties related to wholesomeness, not quality.