section 52,38 in the reference on processed fruits and vegetables. 

 Other suggestions for changes in Federal Specifications are dis- 

 cussed later. 



Grading for demerits usually proceeds as follows for the indi- 

 vidual, thoroughly -wet and squeezed sponge: 



1. Check for trueness to type according to the "Description of 

 Important Species," given earlier. Any lot containing sponges not 

 true to type should be rejected as being impossible to grade. Such 

 lots should not be encountered, however, since an experienced seller 

 would not make this mistake. 



2. Check the sample for size according to a mutually accepted 

 standard method. It is suggested that not more than one-sixth of 

 the samples fails to meet the size indicated — to borrow the phrasing 

 common in Agriculture Standards. An adjustment in price could be 

 made if this requirement as to size is not met. 



3. Look for faults: 



a. Smell the sponge for strong odor. 



b. Squeeze out a few drops of water to detect gurry. 



c. With both thumbs first placed on top of the sponge, run 

 them down the sides at several spots and look for holes 

 and other faults. 



d. Inspect the bottom for dirt, holes, and looseness. 



e. Use the thumb and forefinger for squeezing to detect 

 interior dirt, such as shells and rocks. 



f . Squeeze the whole sponge in one or two hands to detect 

 elasticity, stiffness, poor recovery of shape, or weak 

 inside structure. 



g. Inspect surface structure and shape closely, 

 h. Test for brittleness and tendency to split. 



i. Run any special tests for a particular type or use. 



U. Assign demerits to the sponge according to the agreed standard 

 system of demerits. 



5. Deter min e the grade of the sponges in the lot by considering 



the average number of demerits that were assigned to the sponges in 

 the given lot. 



16 



