First major revision since initial publication of the standards in 1969
The USDA has published a final rule revising the U.S. Standards for Grades of Pecans in the Shell and the U.S. Standards for Grades of Shelled Pecans. This is the first major revision to the standards since their initial publication in 1969.
The new rule replaces the current grades with U.S. Extra Fancy, U.S. Fancy, U.S. Choice and U.S. Standard grades. It establishes rules on size classification, kernel color classification, tolerances for variation and defects, and samples for grade or size determination. It also updates the definitions of various terms, including loose extraneous or foreign material, well cured, well developed, uniform in color and damage, and establishes methods for the application of the standard.
The final rule was adopted as proposed in October 2023 and becomes effective on July 26, 2024.
