Grading of fruits and vegetables is a crucial process in the produce industry, ensuring quality and consistency for consumers. This chapter highlights the significance of grading, with established standards defined by government agencies and industry organizations. Various grading criteria, including size, shape, color and defects, are explored, and grading techniques such as visual inspection, manual sorting, and automated technologies are discussed. Grading plays a vital role in minimizing waste and maximizing profits, but it also poses challenges, including cost and potential errors. The benefits of grading encompass quality control, consistency, marketability, fair pricing, and traceability. Nonetheless, subjectivity, limited applicability, and grading technique limitations are among the limitations. Despite this, grading remains an essential tool in the produce industry, ensuring high-quality and fresh produce that meets consumer expectations.
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