Standardization and inspection of fresh produce

• Grade standards identify the degrees of quality in a commodity that are the basis of its usability and value.
• Such standards, if enforced properly, are essential tools of quality assurance during marketing and provide a common language for trade among growers, handlers, processors, and receivers at terminal markets.
• Some production areas like California, USA enforce minimum standards concerning produce quality, maturity, container, marking, size and packing requirements.
• This provides orderly marketing and equity in the marketplace and protects consumers from inedible and poor-quality produce
• To ensure uniformity of inspection:

(1) inspectors are trained to apply the standards

(2) visual aids (color charts, models, diagrams, photographs and the like) are used whenever possible

 (3) objective methods for determining quality and maturity are used whenever feasible and practical, and

(4) good working environments with proper lighting are provided.