Canned Field Peas and Canned Black-Eye Peas Grades and Standards

Grades of Canned Field Peas and Canned Black-Eye Peas 

1. U.S. Grade A is the quality of canned peas that possess similar varietal characteristics; that possess a normal flavor and odor; that are fairly young; that are practically free from defects; that possess at least a fairly good color; and that scores not less than 85 points when scored in accordance with the scoring system outlined in this subpart.
2. U.S. Grade C is the quality of canned peas that possess similar varietal characteristics; that possess a normal flavor and odor; that possess a fairly good color; that are nearly mature; that are fairly free from defects; and that scores not less than 70 points when scored in accordance with the scoring system outlined in this subpart.
3. Substandard is the quality of canned peas that fail to meet the requirements of U.S. Grade C or U.S. Standard.

Inspection Aid

Headspace Gauge

See How to Purchase Inspection Aids for more details.

Detailed standards, Inspection Instructions & Other Resources:

• U.S. Grade Standards for Canned Field Peas and Canned Black-Eye Peas (pdf)
• Inspection Instructions for Canned Field Peas and Canned Black-Eye Peas (pdf)
• 21 CFR § 155.200 - Certain other Canned Vegetables (pdf)
• AOAC Official Method 945.81 Weevils in Beans and Peas
• Certification Manual
• Condition of Container Manual
• FDA MPM:V-11  G. Method for Peas and Beans (Canned, Frozen, and Dried) (V-104)
• FDA Food Defect Action Levels
• Foreign Material Manual
• General Procedures Manual 
• Safety Manual
• Sampling Manual
• Sanitation Manual
• SC 364-51 Score Sheet for Canned Field Peas and Canned Black-Eye Peas
• Technical Procedures Manual