Asparagus for Processing Grades and Standards

Grades Of Asparagus For Processing

Grade 1 Consists Of Spears Of Asparagus Which Meet The Following Requirements:

Ø Basic Requirements:

·       Fresh; And,

·       Fairly Well Formed.

Ø Free From:

·       Decay; And,

·       Broken Tips.

Ø Free From Damage Caused By:

·       Doubles;

·       Spreading Tips; 

·       Knife Cuts;

·       Broken Butts;

·       Hail;

·       Freezing;

·       Dirt;

·       Disease; 

·       Beetles Or Other Insects; Or,

·       Mechanical, Or Other Means.

Ø Size: Unless Otherwise Specified, Each Spear Shall Meet The Following Requirements:

·       For Diameter. Not Less Than One-Fourth Inch.

·       For Length. Not More Than 7-1/2 Inches.

Ø Color: Unless Otherwise Specified, The Spear Shall Have Green Color Extending At Least 4 1/2 Inches Below The Tip. There Shall Be No Restrictions Regarding The Amount Of White Color Permitted On A Spear Unless Agreed Upon By The Processor And Grower. (See §51.4078.)

Ø For Tolerances See “Application Of Standards” §51.4079.

Grade 2 Consists Of Spears Of Asparagus Which Meet The Following Requirements:

Ø Basic Requirements:

·       Fresh.

Ø Free From:

·       Decay.

Ø Free From Damage Caused By:

·       Dirt.

Ø Free From Serious Damage Caused By:

·       Disease; 

·       Beetles Or Other Insects; Or,

·       Mechanical, Or Other Means.

Ø Size. Unless Otherwise Specified, Each Spear Shall Be Not More Than 7-1/2 Inches In Length.

Ø Color. Unless Otherwise Specified, The Spear Shall Have Green Color Extending At Least 3 Inches Below The Tip. There Shall Be No Restrictions Regarding The Amount Of White Color Permitted On A Spear Unless Agreed Upon By The Processor And Grower. (See §51.4078.)

Ø For Tolerances See “Application Of Standards” §51.4079.