Federal agencies in their food purchase 

 programs. However, large volume food 

 buyers may also request that USDA 

 graders use these standards to certify 

 the condition of the containers of the 

 food they are purchasing. 



Single copies of USDA's grade standards 

 and standards for condition of containers 

 are available, on request, from the 

 Washington, D.C., office of the grading 

 service. 



Plant Survey 



Before USDA begins in-plant grading 

 services, a plant survey is required. 

 USDA also requires a plant survey if a 

 processor wishes to use a U.S. grade 

 designation on the label of products 

 graded on a lot basis. 



In addition to the initial plant approval, 

 surveys must be repeated at least 

 annually if the processor wishes to con- 

 tinue USDA grading or official grade 

 labeling. 



4 



USDA's plant survey insures 

 adherence to sanitation guidelines. 



