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Do you consider yourself a fan of “fancy” produce? The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has specific guidelines regarding the usage of such descriptors, and these labels might have more significance than you think.
The next time you find yourself in the produce aisle, take a moment to examine the labels on the fruits and vegetables. You might encounter terms like “Fancy” or “Extra Fancy.” Contrary to being mere marketing buzzwords, these classifications hold real meaning according to USDA regulations.
Understanding these labels can provide insight into the quality of the produce you purchase. Here’s a closer look at what “fancy” designations entail and how they can guide your grocery choices.
What are USDA grades?
The USDA, through its Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS), offers voluntary grading services applicable to various agricultural products, including fruits, vegetables, and nuts. These grading standards were established under the Agricultural Marketing Act of 1946 to create official U.S. grades that indicate varying levels of quality.
These grades serve multiple stakeholders, including producers, suppliers, buyers, and consumers. They help streamline marketing efforts by creating a standard for buying and selling, establishing quality control systems, and determining loan values.
Evaluation criteria typically consider both visible characteristics (such as blemishes, shape, and color) and non-visible qualities like taste and aroma, all aimed at promoting consistency in produce quality.
What do “Fancy” and “Extra Fancy” mean?
The terms “Fancy” and “Extra Fancy” may resonate as marketing jargon, but they are defined within the USDA’s voluntary grading framework that assesses the quality of fresh produce.
According to the USDA, “U.S. Extra Fancy” signifies produce that is of the highest quality. For instance, in the case of apples, this category is designated for those that are “mature but not overripe, clean, fairly well formed, free from decay, and without visible defects such as bruises or discoloration.” Essentially, these apples represent the pinnacle of quality.
On the other hand, “U.S. Fancy” encompasses apples that meet similar criteria but may have minor flaws in appearance. While still mature and clean, these apples permit slight imperfections in color or shape without compromising overall quality.
This grading system also applies to other fruits such as oranges, peaches, blueberries, and pecans. While specific requirements may vary by type, the essence of the definitions remains consistent: “Extra Fancy” denotes flawless produce, while “Fancy” allows for minimal imperfections.
Where can you spot these labels?
Although there are established standards for these designations, the use of the labels themselves is voluntary. This means that not all producers will choose to display them, leaving you less likely to see them everywhere. However, you may come across such labels more frequently in bulk produce sections or at specialty grocery stores.
What this really means for you
For consumers, these labels can significantly aid in selecting high-quality fruits and vegetables, perfect for special occasions or culinary presentations.
Yet, it’s crucial to remember that produce with slight blemishes, like a bruised apple, may still offer the same nutritional benefits and flavor as its unblemished counterparts. As the saying goes, don’t judge a book by its cover; when it comes to cooking, an imperfect apple might just be the right choice for your recipe.
Source
www.foodandwine.com