Food Defect Levels Handbook

Levels of natural or unavoidable defects in foods that present no health hazards for humans

Introduction

Products without defects

Use of Chemical Substances to Eliminate Defect Levels

Using This Food Defect Action Level Booklet

Glossary

Commodities and Defect Action Levels

INTRODUCTION
Title 21, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 110.110 allows the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to establish maximum levels of natural
or unavoidable defects in foods for human use that present no health hazard. These "Food Defect Action Levels" listed in this booklet are set
on this premise--that they pose no inherent hazard to health.

Poor manufacturing practices may result in enforcement action without regard to the action level. Likewise, the mixing of blending of food
with a defect at or above the current defect action level with another lot of the same or another food is not permitted. That practice renders
the final food unlawful regardless of the defect level of the finished food.

The FDA set these action levels because it is economically impractical to grow, harvest, or process raw products that are totally free of non-
hazardous, naturally occurring, unavoidable defects. Products harmful to consumers are subject to regulatory action whether or not they
exceed the action levels.
It is incorrect to assume that because the FDA has an established defect action level for a food commodity, the food manufacturer need only
stay just below that level. The defect levels do not represent an average of the defects that occur in any of the products--the averages are
actually much lower. The levels represent limits at which FDA will regard the food product "adulterated"; and subject to enforcement action
under Section 402(a)(3) of the Food, Drug, and Cosmetics Act.

As technology improves, the FDA may review and change defect action levels on this list. Also, products may be added to the list. The FDA
publishes these revisions as Notices in the Federal Register. It is the responsibility of the user of this booklet to stay current with any
changes to this list.

PRODUCTS WITHOUT DEFECT LEVELS

If there is no defect action level for a product, or when findings show levels or types of defects that do not appear to fit the action level
criteria, FDA evaluates the samples and decides on a case-by-case basis. In this procedure, FDA's technical and regulatory experts in filth
and extraneous materials use a variety of criteria, often in combination, in determining the significance and regulatory impact of the
findings.

The criteria considered is based on the reported findings (e.g., lengths of hairs, sizes of insect fragments, distribution of filth in the sample,
and combinations of filth types found). Moreover, FDA interprets the findings considering available scientific information (e.g., ecology of
animal species represented) and the knowledge of how a product is grown, harvested, and processed.

USE OF CHEMICAL SUBSTANCES TO ELIMINATE DEFECT LEVELS

It is FDA's position that pesticides are not the alternative to preventing food defects. The use of chemical substances to control insects,
rodents and other natural contaminants has little, if any impact on natural and unavoidable defects in foods. The primary use of pesticides
in the field is to protect food plants from being ravaged by destructive plant pests (leaf feeders, stem borers, etc.).

A secondary use of pesticides is for cosmetic purposes--to prevent some food products from becoming so severely damaged by pests that it
becomes unfit to eat.
USING THIS FOOD DEFECT ACTION LEVEL BOOKLET
This edition of The Food Defect Action Level includes the source of each defect and the significance of it (i.e., how the defect affects the
food). Food processors may find this information helpful as a quality control tool in their operation.

Food commodities (Product) are listed alphabetically. Each listing indicates the analytical methodology (Defect Method) used, as well as the
parameters for the defect (Defect Action Level).

The Macroanalytical Procedures Manual (MPM) is out of print. However, it is available on the web at Macroanalytical Procedures Manual
(/food/laboratory-methods/macroanalytical-procedures-manual-mpm).

For information on the availability of the Official Methods of Analysis by AOAC International, you may contact them at:

www.aoac.org (http://www.aoac.org/)  (http://www.fda.gov/about-fda/website-policies/website-disclaimer)

AOAC INTERNATIONAL

2275 Research Blvd, Ste 300

Rockville, MD 20850-3250  USA

•+1 (800) 379-2622 (Toll Free North America)

•+1 (301) 924-7077 (Worldwide)

The Glossary describes terms used throughout this booklet.

GLOSSARY
ABUSE

Improper handling.

AESTHETIC

Offensive to the senses.

CONTAMINATION
Addition of foreign material, (e.g., dirt, hair, excreta, non-invasive insects, machinery mold) to a product.

COPEPODS

Small free-swimming marine crustaceans, many of which are fish parasites. In some species the females enter the tissues of the host fish
and may form pus pockets.

DAMAGE

Refers to the condition of the product which shows the evidence of the pest habitation or feeding, (e.g., tunneling, gnawing, egg cases, etc.).

DECOMPOSED

Consists of the bacterial breakdown of the normal product tissues and the subsequent enzyme induced chemical changes. These changes
are manifested by abnormal odors, taste, texture, color, etc.

ECONOMIC ADULTERATION

Intentional failure to remove inedible materials from the finished product, or the intentional addition or substitution of cheaper food or
ingredient to a product.

EXTRANEOUS MATERIALS

Any foreign matter in a product associated with objectionable conditions or practices in production, storage, or distribution. Includes:
objectionable matter contributed by insects, rodents, and birds; decomposed material; and miscellaneous matter such as sand, soil, glass,
rust, or other foreign substances.

FOREIGN MATTER

Includes objectionable matter such as sticks, stones, burlap bagging, cigarette butts, etc. Also includes the valueless parts of the raw plant
material, such as stems.

GUMMY
A resinous glaze on an almond kernel that is induced by an insect injury or mechanical damage.

HARVEST

occurs during the harvesting process.

INFECTION

A condition due to the growth of an organism in a host, (e.g., rot or decay, visible mold mycelia).

INFESTATION

The presence of any live or dead life cycle stages of insects in a host product, (e.g., weevils in pecans, fly eggs and maggots in tomato
products); or evidence of their presence (i.e., excreta, cast skins, chewed product residues, urine, etc.); or the establishment of an active
breeding population, (e.g., rodents in a grain silo). 

MILDEW

Refers to downy mildew which is a fungus infection that causes yellow-brown spots on the leaves of edible greens in the mustard family.

MOLD COUNT

Refers to the results of the Howard mold count method which is reported as the percentage of positive microscopic fields that have been
scored as either positive or negative based on the presence or absence of a minimum amount of mold hyphae. Performed only on
comminuted fruits and vegetables, and some ground spices. The source of the mold hyphae is rotten raw material that is processed along
with sound raw material but is no longer visible due to the comminution process.

MOLDY

Evidenced by the presence of mold (mold hyphae and/or spore forming structures) that are visible to the unaided eye. Microscopic
examination may be used to confirm the presence of characteristic hyphal filaments and fruiting structures.

POST HARVEST
occurs after harvest, for example:

1. field holding of the harvested crop prior to transit

2. farm storage of harvested crop
3. during transit by truck, ship, rail, etc.
4. at the processing facility, awaiting processing or proper storage

PREHARVEST

occurs while product is in the field, during growth or awaiting harvest.

PROCESSING

occurs while in the processing facility, in storage or during processing.

RANCID

A condition where a product has a disagreable odor or taste of decomposed oils or fat. For example, rancid nuts frequently are soft, with a yellow, dark, or
oily appearance, a bitter taste and a stale odor.

ROT

Plant tissue that is visibly decomposed, usually discolored with disagreeable odors and taste. The plant tissue has been invaded and is being digested by
microorganisms. Although rot can also be caused by bacteria and yeasts, these organisms are secondary invaders. Molds are the primary organisms of
decomposition and the presence of mold hyphae in the tissue is used to confirm rot.

SHRIVELED

A condition where the nut kernel is shrunken and not fully developed, commonly a result of climatic stress or infection by certain molds.

SIGNIFICANCE OF DEFECT
Refers to the real or potential impact on the consumer due to the presence of a particular defect. A listed defect can have more than one
significance to the consumer (e.g., the mold defect of whole cassia has an aesthetic significance, whereas the mold defect of green coffee
beans has a potential health hazard significance due to the threat of mold toxins produced by the mold species known to infect coffee
beans).

SOUR

In fruits, consists of the bacterial breakdown of the product and the formation of lactic acid and subsequent sour taste.

WATER INSOLUBLE INORGANIC MATTER

A contaminant of the finished product that consists of fine grit that originates from the sand, dirt, and stones that contaminate the raw
agricultural product at the time of harvest.

WHOLE OR EQUIVALENT INSECT

A whole insect, separate head, or body portions with head attached.

WORTHLESS

Any condition where the product has been affected by organisms or the environment that it has no food value.

COMMODITIES AND DEFECT ACTION LEVELS

DEFECT

PRODUCT (Method) ACTION LEVEL

Allspice, Insect Filth

Average of 30 or more insect fragments per 10 grams
Ground (AOAC 981.21)
 DEFECT

PRODUCT (Method) ACTION LEVEL

Rodent filth
Average of 1 or more rodent hairs per 10 grams
(AOAC 981.21)

DEFECT SOURCE: Insect fragments - pre/post harvest and processing insect infestation. Rodent hair - post harvest and/or processing contamination with
animal hair or excreta

SIGNIFICANCE: Aesthetic

Allspice, Whole Mold

Average of 5% or more berries by weight are moldy
(MPM-V32
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-8-
spices-condiments-
flavors-and-crude-drugs))

DEFECT SOURCE: : Preharvest and/or post harvest infection

SIGNIFICANCE: Potential health hazard - may contain mycotoxin producing fungi

Apple Butter Mold

Average of mold count is 12% or more
(AOAC 975.51)

Rodent filth
Average of 4 or more rodent hairs per 100 grams of apple butter
(AOAC 945.76)

Insects
Average of 5 or more whole or equivalent insects (not counting mites, aphids, thrips, or scale insects) per 100 grams of apple
(AOAC 945.76) butter
 DEFECT

PRODUCT (Method) ACTION LEVEL

DEFECT SOURCE: Mold - post harvest infection. Rodent hair - post harvest and/or processing contamination with animal hair. Whole or equivalent insects -
preharvest, and/or post harvest and/or processing insect infestation,

SIGNIFICANCE: Aesthetic

Apricots, Insect filth

Average of 2% or more by count has been damaged or infected by insects
Canned (MPM-V51
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-9-fruits-
and-fruit-products-v-51-v-
78))

DEFECT SOURCE: Pre-harvest insect infestation

SIGNIFICANCE: Aesthetic

Asparagus, Insect filth

10% by count of spears or pieces are infested with 6 or more attached asparagus beetle eggs and/or sacs
Canned or (MPM-V93
Frozen (/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-11-
vegetables-and-
vegetable-products))

Insects
Asparagus contains an average of 40 or more thrips per 100 grams

(MPM-V93 OR

(/food/laboratory- Insects (whole or equivalent) of 3mm or longer have an average aggregate length of 7mm or longer per 100 grams of
methods/mpm-v-11- asparagus
vegetables-and-
vegetable-products))
 DEFECT

PRODUCT (Method) ACTION LEVEL

DEFECT SOURCE: Pre-harvest insect infestation

SIGNIFICANCE: Aesthetic

Bay (Laurel) Mold

Average of 5% or more pieces by weight are moldy
Leaves (MPM-V32
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-8-
spices-condiments-
flavors-and-crude-drugs) )
*

Insect filth
Average of 5% or more pieces by weight are insect-infested
(MPM-V32
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-8-
spices-condiments-
flavors-and-crude-drugs))

Mammalian excreta
Average of 1 mg or more mammalian excreta per pound after processing
(MPM-V32
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-8-
spices-condiments-
flavors-and-crude-drugs))

DEFECT SOURCE: Mold - preharvest infection. Insect infestation - preharvest and/or post harvest and/or processing insect infestation. Mammalian excreta -
post harvest and/or processing animal contamination

SIGNIFICANCE: Aesthetic
 DEFECT

PRODUCT (Method) ACTION LEVEL

Beets, Canned Rot Average of 5% or more pieces by weight with dry rot

DEFECT SOURCE: Preharvest mold infection

SIGNIFICANCE: Aesthetic

Berries: Mold
Average mold count is 60% or more
Drupelet, (AOAC 955.47)
Canned and
Frozen Insects and larvae
Average of 4 or more larvae per 500 grams

(blackberries, (AOAC 981.20) OR

raspberries, Average of 10 or more whole insects or equivalent per 500 grams (excluding thrips, aphids and mites)
etc.)

DEFECT SOURCE:  Insects and larvae - preharvest insect infestation. Mold - post harvest infection

Significance: Aesthetic

Berries: Lingon, Insect larvae

Average of 3 or more larvae per pound in a minimum of 12 subsamples
Canned ( MPM-V64
(European (/food/laboratory-
cranberry) methods/mpm-v-9-fruits-
and-fruit-products-v-51-v-
78#v64))

DEFECT SOURCE:  Insects-pre-harvest insect infestation

Significance: Aesthetic
 DEFECT

PRODUCT (Method) ACTION LEVEL

Berries: Multer, Insects

Average of 40 or more thrips per No.2 can in all subsamples and 20% of subsamples are materially infested
Canned ( MPM-V64
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-9-fruits-
and-fruit-products-v-51-v-
78#v64))

DEFECT SOURCE:  Insects-pre-harvest insect infestation

Significance: Aesthetic

Broccoli, Frozen Insects and mites

Average of 60 or more aphids and/or thrips and/or mites per 100 grams
(AOAC 945.82)

DEFECT SOURCE:  Pre-harvest insect infestation

Significance: Aesthetic

Brussels Insects
Average of 30 or more aphids and/or thrips per 100 grams
Sprouts, Frozen ( MPM-V95
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-11-
vegetables-and-
vegetable-products#v95))

DEFECT SOURCE:  Pre-harvest insect infestation

Significance: Aesthetic
 DEFECT

PRODUCT (Method) ACTION LEVEL

Capsicum Pods Insect filth and/or mold Average of more than 3% of pods by weight are insect-infested and/or moldy
( MPM-V32
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-8-
spices-condiments-
flavors-and-crude-
drugs#v32))

Mammalian excreta
Average of more than 1mg mammalian excreta per pound
( MPM-V32
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-8-
spices-condiments-
flavors-and-crude-
drugs#v32))

DEFECT SOURCE:  Insect infested - preharvest and/or post harvest insect infestation. Mold - preharvest and/or post harvest infection, Mammalian excreta -
post harvest and/or processing animal contamination

Significance: Aesthetic, Potential health hazard - mold may contain mycotoxin producing fungi

Ground Mold
Average mold count is more than 20%
Capsicum (AOAC 945.94)
(excluding
paprika) Insect filth
Average of more than 50 insect fragments per 25 grams
(AOAC 978.22)

Rodent filth
Average of more than 6 rodent hairs per 25 grams
(AOAC 978.22)
 DEFECT

PRODUCT (Method) ACTION LEVEL

DEFECT SOURCE: Mold - pre-harvest and/or post harvest mold infection. Insect fragments - pre-harvest and/or post harvest and/or processing insect
infestation. Rodent hair - pre-harvest and/or post harvest and/or processing contamination with animal hair or excreta 

Significance: Aesthetic, Mold may contain mycotoxin producing fungi 

Ground Paprika Mold

Average mold count is more than 20%
(AOAC 945.94)

Insect filth
Average of more than 75 insect fragments per 25 grams
(AOAC 977.25B)

Rodent filth
Average of more than 11 rodent hairs per 25 grams
(AOAC 977.25B)

DEFECT SOURCE:  Mold - pre and/or post harvest mold infection. Insect fragments - pre and/or post harvest and/or processing insect infestation. Rodent hair -
pre and/or post harvest and/or processing contamination with animal hair or excreta 

Significance: Aesthetic, Potential health hazard - mold may contain mycotoxin producing fungi 

Cassia (or) Mold

Average of 5% or more pieces by weight are moldy
Cinnamon Bark, ( MPM-V32
Whole (/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-8-
spices-condiments-
flavors-and-crude-
drugs#v32))
 DEFECT

PRODUCT (Method) ACTION LEVEL

Insect filth
Average of 5% or more pieces by weight are insect-infested
( MPM-V32
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-8-
spices-condiments-
flavors-and-crude-
drugs#v32))

Mammalian excreta
Average of 1 mg or more mammalian excreta per pound
( MPM-V32
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-8-
spices-condiments-
flavors-and-crude-
drugs#v32))

DEFECT SOURCE:  Mold - post harvest mold infection. Insect infestation - post harvest and/or processing. Mammalian excreta - post harvest and/or
processing animal contamination.

Significance: Aesthetic

Cinnamon, Insect filth

Average of 400 or more insect fragments per 50 gram
Ground (AOAC 968.38b)

Rodent filth
Average of 11 or more rodent hairs per 50 grams
(AOAC 968.38b)
 DEFECT

PRODUCT (Method) ACTION LEVEL

DEFECT SOURCE:  Insect fragments - post harvest and/or processing insect infestation. Rodent hair - post harvest and/or processing contamination with
animal hair or excreta

Significance: Aesthetic

Cherries: Brined Insect filth

Average of 5% or more pieces are rejects due to maggots
and Maraschino ( MPM-V48
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-9-fruits-
and-fruit-products-v-42-v-
48#v48))

DEFECT SOURCE:  Pre-harvest insect infestation

Significance: Aesthetic

Cherries: Fresh, Rot

Average of 7% or more pieces are rejects due to rot
Canned, or ( MPM-V48
Frozen (/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-9-fruits-
and-fruit-products-v-42-v-
48#v48))

Insect filth
Average of 4% or more pieces are rejects due to insects other than maggots
( MPM-V48
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-9-fruits-
and-fruit-products-v-42-v-
48#v48))
 DEFECT

PRODUCT (Method) ACTION LEVEL

DEFECT SOURCE:  Insect reject - Pre-harvest and/or post harvest insect infestation, Rot reject - pre-harvest mold infection

SIGNIFICANCE: Aesthetic

Cherry Jam Mold

Average mold count is 30% or more
( MPM-V61
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-9-fruits-
and-fruit-products-v-51-v-
78#v61))

DEFECT SOURCE:  Pre-harvest mold infection

Significance: Aesthetic

Chocolate and Insect filth

Average is 60 or more insect fragments per 100 grams when 6 100-gram subsamples are examined

Chocolate (AOAC 965.38) OR

Liquor Any 1 subsample contains 90 or more insect fragments

Rodent filth
Average is 1 or more rodent hairs per 100 grams in 6 100-gram subsamples examined

(AOAC 965.38) OR

Any 1 subsample contains 3 or more rodent hairs

Shell
For chocolate liquor, if the shell is in excess of 2% calculated on the basis of alkali-free nibs
(AOAC 968.10-970.23)

DEFECT SOURCE:  Insect fragments - post harvest and/or processing insect infestation, Rodent hair - post harvest and/or processing contamination with
animal hair or excreta, Shell - processing contamination

Significance: Aesthetic
 DEFECT

PRODUCT (Method) ACTION LEVEL

Citrus Fruit Mold

Average mold count is 10% or more
Juices, Canned (AOAC 970.75)

Insects and insect eggs

5 or more Drosophila and other fly eggs per 250 ml or 1 or more maggots per 250 ml
(AOAC 970.72)

DEFECT SOURCE:  Mold - processing contamination, Fly eggs and/or maggots - post harvest insect infestation 

Significance: Aesthetic

Cloves Stems
Average of 5% or more stems by weight
( MPM-V32
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-8-
spices-condiments-
flavors-and-crude-
drugs#v32))

DEFECT SOURCE:  Harvest

SIGNIFICANCE: Aesthetic, economic adulteration

Cocoa Beans Mold

More than 4% of beans by count are moldy
( MPM-V18
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-4-
chocolate-sugars-and-
related-products))
 DEFECT

PRODUCT (Method) ACTION LEVEL

Insect filth
More than 4% of beans by count are insect-infested including insect-damaged
( MPM-V18
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-4-
chocolate-sugars-and-
related-products))

Insect filth and/or mold More than 6% of beans by count are insect-infested or moldy

NOTE: Level differs when both filth and mold are present

Mammalian excreta
Average of 10 mg or more mammalian excreta per pound
( MPM-V18
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-4-
chocolate-sugars-and-
related-products))

DEFECT SOURCE: Mold - post harvest infection, Insect infested/damaged - post harvest and/or processing insect infestation, Mammalian excreta - post
harvest and/or processing animal contamination

Significance: Aesthetic, Potential health hazard - may contain mycotoxin producing fungi

Cocoa Powder Insect filth

Average of 75 or more insect fragments per subsample of 50 grams when 6 subsamples are examined

Press Cake (AOAC 965.38) OR

Any 1 subsample contains 125 or more insect fragments

Rodent filth
Average in 6 or more subsamples is 2 or more rodent hairs per subsample of 50 grams

(AOAC 965.38) OR

Any 1 subsample contains 4 or more rodent hairs

 DEFECT

PRODUCT (Method) ACTION LEVEL

Shell
2% or more shell calculated on the basis of alkali-free nibs.
(AOAC 968.10-970.23)

DEFECT SOURCE:  Insect fragments - post harvest and/or processing insect infestation, Rodent hair - post harvest and/or processing contamination with
animal hair or excreta, Shell - processing contamination

Significance: Aesthetic

Coffee Beans, Grade defects

Beans are poorer than Grade 8 of the New York Green Coffee Association
Graded Green ( MPM-V6
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-1-
beverages-and-beverage-
materials))

DEFECT SOURCE:   Quality - processing

Significance: Aesthetic, economic adulteration

Coffee Beans, Insect filth and insects

Average 10% or more by count are insect-infested or insect-damaged

Green ( MPM-V1 Note:

(/food/laboratory- If live external infestation is present use the Compliance Policy Guide (CPG) titled " Food Storage and Warehousing-
methods/mpm-v-1- Adulteration-Filth" (CPG 580.100) (/regulatory-information/search-fda-guidance-documents/cpg-sec-580100-food-storage-and-
beverages-and-beverage- warehousing-adulteration-filth-domestic-and-import) in accordance with "Interpretation of Insect Filth" (CPG 555.600)
materials)) (/regulatory-information/search-fda-guidance-documents/cpg-sec-555600-filth-insects-rodents-and-other-pests-foods)
 DEFECT

PRODUCT (Method) ACTION LEVEL

Mold
Average of 10% or more beans by count are moldy
( MPM-V1
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-1-
beverages-and-beverage-
materials))

DEFECT SOURCE:  Insect infested/damaged - preharvest and/or post harvest and/or processing insect infestation, Mold - post harvest and/or processing
infection

Significance: Aesthetic, Potential health hazard - mold may contain mycotoxin producing fungi

Condimental Mammalian excreta

Average of 3 mg or more of mammalian excreta per pound
Seeds Other ( MPM-V32
than Fennel (/food/laboratory-
Seeds and methods/mpm-v-8-
Sesame Seeds spices-condiments-
flavors-and-crude-
drugs#v32))

DEFECT SOURCE:  Post harvest and/or processing animal contamination

Significance: Aesthetic

Corn: Sweet Insect larvae

Insect larvae (corn ear worms, corn borers) 2 or more 3mm or longer larvae, cast skins, larval or cast skin fragments of corn
Corn, Canned (AOAC 973.61) ear worms or corn borer and the aggregate length of such larvae, cast skins, larval or cast skin fragments exceeds 12 mm in 24
pounds (24 No. 303 cans or equivalent)

DEFECT SOURCE:  Pre-harvest insect infestation

Significance: Aesthetic
 DEFECT

PRODUCT (Method) ACTION LEVEL

Corn Husks for Insect filth

Average of 5 % or more husks by weight are insect-infested (including insect-damaged)
Tamales ( MPM-V115
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-11-
vegetables-and-
vegetable-
products#v115))

Mold
Average of 5% or more husks by weight are moldy
( MPM-V115
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-11-
vegetables-and-
vegetable-
products#v115))

DEFECT SOURCE:  Insect infested - preharvest and/or processing insect infestation, Mold - preharvest and/or post harvest and/or processing infection

Significance: Aesthetic

Cornmeal Insects
Average of 1 or more whole insects (or equivalent) per 50 grams
(AOAC 981.19)

Insect filth
Average of 25 or more insect fragments per 25 grams
(AOAC 981.19)

Rodent filth
Average of 1 or more rodent hairs per 25 grams

(AOAC 981.19) OR

Average of 1 or more rodent excreta fragment per 50 grams

 DEFECT

PRODUCT (Method) ACTION LEVEL

DEFECT SOURCE:  Insects and insect fragments - preharvest and/or post harvest and/or processing insect infestation, Rodent hair and excreta fragments -
post harvest and/or processing contamination with animal hair or excreta

SIGNIFICANCE: Aesthetic

Cranberry Mold
Average mold count is more than 15%

Sauce (AOAC 970.76) OR

The mold count of any 1 subsample is more than 50%

DEFECT SOURCE:  Pre-harvest and/or post harvest infection

Significance: Aesthetic

Cumin Seed Sand and grit Average of 9.5% or more ash and/or 1.5% or more acid insoluble ash
(AOAC 975.48)

DEFECT SOURCE:  Harvest contamination

Significance: Aesthetic

Currant Jam, Mold

Average mold count is 75% or more
Black ( MPM-V61
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-9-fruits-
and-fruit-products-v-51-v-
78#v61))

DEFECT SOURCE:  Post harvest and/or processing infection

Significance: Aesthetic
 DEFECT

PRODUCT (Method) ACTION LEVEL

Currants Insect filth

5% or more, by count, wormy in the average of the subsamples
( MPM-V53
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-9-fruits-
and-fruit-products-v-51-v-
78#v53))

DEFECT SOURCE:  Pre-harvest insect infestation

Significance: Aesthetic

Curry Powder Insect filth

Average of 100 or more insect fragments per 25 grams
(AOAC 975.48)

Rodent filth
Average of 4 or more rodent hairs per 25 grams
(AOAC 975.48)

DEFECT SOURCE:  Insect fragments - preharvest and/or post harvest and/or processing insect infestation, Rodent hair - post harvest and/or processing
contamination with animal hair or excreta

Significance: Aesthetic

Date Material Insects

10 or more dead insects (whole or equivalent) in 1 or more subsamples

(Chopped, ( MPM-V53 OR

Sliced, (or) (/food/laboratory- 5 or more dead insects (whole or equivalent) per 100 grams
Macerated) methods/mpm-v-9-fruits-
and-fruit-products-v-51-v-
78#v53))
 DEFECT

PRODUCT (Method) ACTION LEVEL

Pits
2 or more pits and/or pit fragments 2 mm or longer measured in the longest dimension per 900 grams
( MPM-V53
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-9-fruits-
and-fruit-products-v-51-v-
78#v53))

DEFECT SOURCE:  Insects - preharvest and/or post harvest and/or processing insect infestation, Pits - processing

SIGNIFICANCE: Insects - Aesthetic, Pits - mouth/tooth injury

Dates, Pitted Multiple

Average of 5% or more dates by count are rejects (moldy, dead insects, insect excreta, sour, dirty, and/or worthless) as
( MPM-V53 determined by macroscopic sequential examination
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-9-fruits-
and-fruit-products-v-51-v-
78#v53))

Pits
Average of 2 or more pits and/or pit fragments 2 mm or longer in the longest dimension per 100 dates
( MPM-V53
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-9-fruits-
and-fruit-products-v-51-v-
78#v53))

DEFECT SOURCE:  Insects, insect excreta, & mold - preharvest and/or post harvest and/or processing, Sour & worthless - preharvest, Dirt - harvest
contamination, Pits - processing

Significance: Insects, insect excreta, mold, sour & worthless, dirt - Aesthetic, Pits - mouth/tooth injury
 DEFECT

PRODUCT (Method) ACTION LEVEL

Dates, Whole Multiple

Average of 5% or more dates by count are rejects (moldy, dead insects, insect excreta, sour, dirty, and/or worthless) as
( MPM-V53 determined by macroscopic sequential examination
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-9-fruits-
and-fruit-products-v-51-v-
78#v53))

DEFECT SOURCE:  Insects, insect excreta, & mold - preharvest and/or post harvest and/or processing, Sour & worthless - preharvest, Dirt - harvest
contamination

Significance: Aesthetic

Eggs and Other Decomposition

2 or more cans decomposed and at least 2 subsamples from decomposed cans have direct microscopic counts of 5 million or
Egg Products, (AOAC 939.14, 940.36, more bacteria per gram
Frozen 940.37)

DEFECT SOURCE:  Processing (incubator rejects)

Significance: Economic

Fennel Seed Insects

20% or more of subsamples contain insects
( MPM-V32
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-8-
spices-condiments-
flavors-and-crude-
drugs#v32))
 DEFECT

PRODUCT (Method) ACTION LEVEL

Mammalian excreta
20% or more of subsamples contain mammalian excreta

( MPM-V32 OR

(/food/laboratory- average of more than 3 mg of mammalian excreta per pound

methods/mpm-v-8-
spices-condiments-
flavors-and-crude-
drugs#v32))

DEFECT SOURCE:  Insects - preharvest and/or post harvest insect infestation, Excreta - post harvest and/or processing animal contamination

SIGNIFICANCE: Aesthetic

Fig Paste Insects

Contains 13 or more insect heads per 100 grams of fig paste in each of 2 or more subsamples
(AOAC 964.23)

DEFECT SOURCE:  Pre-harvest and/or post harvest and/or processing insect infestation

Significance: Aesthetic

Figs Insect filth and/or mold Average of 10% or more by count are insect-infested and/or moldy and/or dirty fruit or pieces of fruit
and/or dirty fruit or
pieces of fruit

( MPM-V53
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-9-fruits-
and-fruit-products-v-51-v-
78#v53))

DEFECT SOURCE:  Insect infested - Pre-harvest and/or post harvest infestation, Moldy - preharvest infection. Dirt - harvest contamination

Significance: Aesthetic, Potential health hazard - may contain mycotoxin producing fungi
 DEFECT

PRODUCT (Method) ACTION LEVEL

Tullibees, Parasites (cysts)

50 parasitic cysts per 100 pounds (whole or fillets), provided that 20% of the fish examined are infested
Ciscoes, ( MPM-V28
Inconnus, (/food/laboratory-
Chubs, and methods/mpm-v-7-
Whitefish seafood#v28))

DEFECT SOURCE: Pre-harvest infection

Significance: Aesthetic

Blue Fin and Parasites (cysts)

60 parasitic cysts per 100 fish (fish averaging 1 pound or less) or 100 pounds of fish averaging over 1 pound), provided that
other Fresh ( MPM-V28 20% of the fish examined are infested
Water Herring (/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-7-
seafood#v28))

DEFECT SOURCE:  Pre-harvest infection

Significance: Aesthetic

Red Fish and Parasites (copepods) 3 % of the fillets examined contain 1 or more copepods accompanied by pus pockets
Ocean Perch ( MPM-V28
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-7-
seafood#v28))

DEFECT SOURCE:  Pre-harvest infection

Significance: Aesthetic
 DEFECT

PRODUCT (Method) ACTION LEVEL

Ginger, Whole Insect filth and/or mold Average of 3% or more pieces by weight are insect-infested and/or moldy
( MPM-V32
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-8-
spices-condiments-
flavors-and-crude-
drugs#v32))

Mammalian excreta
Average of 3 mg or more of mammalian excreta per pound
( MPM-V32
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-8-
spices-condiments-
flavors-and-crude-
drugs#v32))

DEFECT SOURCE:  Insect infestation - post harvest and/or processing, Mold - post harvest and/or processing infection, Mammalian excreta - post harvest
and/or processing animal contamination

Significance: Aesthetic, Potential health hazard - may contain mycotoxin producing fungi

Greens, Canned Mildew

Average of 10% or more of leaves, by count or weight, showing mildew over 1/2" in diameter
(AOAC 967.23)

DEFECT SOURCE:  Pre-harvest infection

Significance: Aesthetic

Hops Insects
Average of more than 2,500 aphids per 10 grams
(AOAC 967.23)
 DEFECT

PRODUCT (Method) ACTION LEVEL

DEFECT SOURCE:  Pre-harvest infestation

Significance: Aesthetic

Macaroni and Insect filth

Average of 225 insect fragments or more per 225 grams in 6 or more subsamples
Noodle (AOAC 969.41)
Products
Rodent filth
Average of 4.5 rodent hairs or more per 225 grams in 6 or more subsamples
(AOAC 969.41)

DEFECT SOURCE:  Insect fragments - preharvest and/or post harvest and/or processing infestation. Rodent hair - post harvest and/or processing
contamination with animal hair or excreta

Significance: Aesthetic

Mace Insect filth and/or mold Average of 3% or more pieces by weight are insect-infested and/or moldy
( MPM-V32
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-8-
spices-condiments-
flavors-and-crude-
drugs#v32))

Mammalian excreta
Average of 3 mg or more of mammalian excreta per pound
( MPM-V32
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-8-
spices-condiments-
flavors-and-crude-
drugs#v32))
 DEFECT

PRODUCT (Method) ACTION LEVEL

Foreign matter
Average of 1.5% or more of foreign matter through a 20-mesh sieve
( MPM-V32
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-8-
spices-condiments-
flavors-and-crude-
drugs#v32))

DEFECT SOURCE:  Insect infestation - preharvest and/or post harvest and/or processing. Mold - preharvest and/or post harvest infection, Mammalian excreta -
post harvest and/or processing animal contamination, Foreign matter - post harvest contamination

Significance: Aesthetic

Marjoram, Insect filth and/or mold Average of 5% or more pieces by weight are insect-infested or moldy
Whole Plant, ( MPM-V32
Unprocessed (/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-8-
spices-condiments-
flavors-and-crude-
drugs#v32))

Mammalian excreta
Average of 1 mg or more mammalian excreta per pound
( MPM-V32
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-8-
spices-condiments-
flavors-and-crude-
drugs#v32))
 DEFECT

PRODUCT (Method) ACTION LEVEL

DEFECT SOURCE:  Insect infestation - preharvest and/or post harvest and/or processing, Mold - post harvest and/or processing infection, Mammalian excreta -
post harvest and/or processing animal contamination

Significance: Aesthetic

Marjoram, Insect filth

Average of 1175 or more insect fragments per 10 grams
Ground (AOAC 975.49)

Rodent filth
Average of 8 or more rodent hairs per 10 grams
(AOAC 975.49)

DEFECT SOURCE:  Insect fragments - preharvest and/or post harvest and/or processing insect infestation, Rodent hair - post harvest and/or processing
contamination with animal hair or excreta

Significance: Aesthetic

Marjoram, Insect filth

Average of 250 or more insect fragments per 10 grams
Unground (AOAC 985.39)

Rodent filth
Average of 2 or more rodent hairs per 10 grams
(AOAC 985.39)

DEFECT SOURCE:  Insect fragments - preharvest and/or post harvest and/or processing insect infestation, Rodent hair - processing contamination with animal
hair or excreta

Significance: Aesthetic
 DEFECT

PRODUCT (Method) ACTION LEVEL

Mushrooms, Insects
Average of over 20 or more maggots of any size per 100 grams of drained mushrooms and proportionate liquid or 15 grams of
Canned and (AOAC 967.24) dried mushrooms

Dried OR

Average of 5 or more maggots 2 mm or longer per 100 grams of drained mushrooms and proportionate liquid or 15 grams of
dried mushrooms

Mites
Average of 75 mites per 100 grams drained mushrooms and proportionate liquid or 15 grams of dried mushrooms
(AOAC 967.24)

Decomposition
Average of more than 10% of mushrooms are decomposed
( MPM-V100
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-11-
vegetables-and-
vegetable-
products#v100))

DEFECT SOURCE: Insects - preharvest insect infestation, Mites - preharvest and/or post harvest infestation, Decomposition - preharvest infection

Significance: Aesthetic

Nectars, Mold Average mold count is 12% or more

Apricot, Peach
and Pear DEFECT SOURCE:  Pre-harvest infection

Significance: Aesthetic
 DEFECT

PRODUCT (Method) ACTION LEVEL

Nutmeg, Whole Insect filth and/or mold Average of 10% or more pieces by count are insect-infested and/or moldy
( MPM-V41
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-8-
spices-condiments-
flavors-and-crude-
drugs#v41))

DEFECT SOURCE:  Insect infestation - preharvest and/or post harvest and/or processing, Mold - preharvest and/or post harvest infection

SIGNIFICANCE: Aesthetic, Potential health hazard - may contain mycotoxin producing fungi

Nutmeg, Ground Insect filth

Average of 100 or more insect fragments per 10 grams
(AOAC 979.26)

Rodent filth
Average of 1 or more rodent hairs per 10 grams
(AOAC 979.26)

DEFECT SOURCE: Insect fragments - post harvest and/or processing insect infestation, Rodent hair - post harvest and/or processing contamination with
animal hair or excreta

Significance: Aesthetic

Nuts, Tree Multiple Defects

Reject nuts (insect-infested, rancid, moldy, gummy, and shriveled or empty shells) as determined by macroscopic examination
( MPM-V81 at or in excess of the following levels:
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-10-nuts-
and-nut-products-
methods))
 DEFECT

PRODUCT (Method) ACTION LEVEL

Nut Type Unshelled % Shelled %

Almonds 5 5

Brazils 10 5

Cashew -- 5

Green Chestnuts 15 --

Baked Chestnuts 10 --

Dried Chestnuts -- 5

Filberts 10 5

Lichee Nuts 5 --

Pecans 10 5

Pili Nuts 15 10

Pistachios 10 5

Walnuts 10 5

DEFECT SOURCE:  Insect infested - preharvest and/or post harvest and/or processing, Mold - preharvest and/or post harvest and/or processing infection,
Gummy & shriveled - preharvest physiological condition, Rancidity - post harvest

Significance: Aesthetic, Potential health hazard - may contain mycotoxin producing fungi

Pitted olives Pits

Average of 1.3 percent or more by count of olives with whole pits and/or pit fragments 2 mm or longer measured in the longest
( MPM-V67 dimension
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-9-fruits-
and-fruit-products-v-51-v-
78#v67))
 DEFECT

PRODUCT (Method) ACTION LEVEL

DEFECT SOURCE:  Processing

Significance: Mouth/tooth injury

Imported Green Insect damage

7% or more olives by count showing damage by olive fruit fly
olives ( MPM-V67
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-9-fruits-
and-fruit-products-v-51-v-
78#v67))

DEFECT SOURCE:  Pre-harvest insect infestation

Significance: Aesthetic

Salad olives Pits

Average of 1.3 or more olives by count of olives with whole pits and/or pit fragments 2 mm or longer measured in the longest
( MPM-V67 dimension
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-9-fruits-
and-fruit-products-v-51-v-
78#v67))

Insect damage
9% or more olives by weight showing damage by olive fruit fly
( MPM-V67
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-9-fruits-
and-fruit-products-v-51-v-
78#v67))
 DEFECT

PRODUCT (Method) ACTION LEVEL

DEFECT SOURCE:  Pits - processing, Insect damage - preharvest insect infestation

SIGNIFICANCE: Pits - mouth/tooth injury, Insect damage - Aesthetic

Salt-cured Insects
Average of 10% or more olives by count with 10 or more scale insects each
olives ( MPM-V67
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-9-fruits-
and-fruit-products-v-51-v-
78#v67))

Mold
Average of 25% or more olives by count are moldy
( MPM-V67
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-9-fruits-
and-fruit-products-v-51-v-
78#v67))

DEFECT SOURCE:  Scale insects - preharvest infestation, Mold - post harvest and/or processing infection

Significance: Aesthetic

Imported Black Insect damage

10% or more olives by count showing damage by olive fruit fly
olives ( MPM-V67
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-9-fruits-
and-fruit-products-v-51-v-
78#v67))
 DEFECT

PRODUCT (Method) ACTION LEVEL

DEFECT SOURCE:  Pre-harvest insect infestation

Significance: Aesthetic

Oregano, Whole Insect filth and/or mold Average of 5% or more insect infested and/or moldy pieces by weight
Plant, weight

Unprocessed ( MPM-V32
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-8-
spices-condiments-
flavors-and-crude-
drugs#v32))

Mammalian excreta
Average of 1 mg or more mammalian excreta per pound
( MPM-V32
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-8-
spices-condiments-
flavors-and-crude-
drugs#v32))

DEFECT SOURCE:  Insect infested - preharvest and/or post harvest and/or processing, Mold - post harvest and/or processing infection, Mammalian excreta -
post harvest and/or processing animal contamination

Significance: Aesthetic

Oregano, Insect filth

Average of 1250 or more insect fragments per 10 grams
Ground (AOAC 975.49)
 DEFECT

PRODUCT (Method) ACTION LEVEL

Rodent filth
Average of 5 or more rodent hairs per 10 grams
(AOAC 975.49)

DEFECT SOURCE:  Insect fragments - preharvest and/or post harvest and/or processing insect infestation, Rodent hair - post harvest and/or processing
contamination with animal hair or excreta 

Significance: Aesthetic

Oregano, Insect filth

Average of 300 or more insect fragments per 10 grams
Crushed (AOAC 969.44)

Rodent filth
Average of 2 or more rodent hairs per 10 grams
(AOAC 969.44)

DEFECT SOURCE:  Insect fragments - preharvest and/or post harvest and/or processing insect infestation, Rodent hair - post harvest and/or processing
contamination with animal hair or excreta

Significance: Aesthetic

Peaches, Mold/Insect damage

Average of 3% or more fruit by count are wormy or moldy
Canned and ( MPM-V51
Frozen (/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-9-fruits-
and-fruit-products-v-51-v-
78))
 DEFECT

PRODUCT (Method) ACTION LEVEL

Insects
In 12 1-pound cans or equivalent, one or more larvae and/or larval fragments whose aggregate length exceeds 5 mm
( MPM-V51
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-9-fruits-
and-fruit-products-v-51-v-
78))

DEFECT SOURCE:  Mold - preharvest and/or post harvest infection, Insect damage - preharvest insect infestation, Larvae - preharvest insect infestation

Significance: Aesthetic

Peanut Butter Insect filth

Average of 30 or more insect fragments per 100 grams
(AOAC 968.35)

Rodent filth
Average of 1 or more rodent hairs per 100 grams
(AOAC 968.35)

Grit
Gritty taste and water insoluble inorganic residue is more than 25 mg per 100 grams
(AOAC 968.35)

DEFECT SOURCE:  Insect fragments - preharvest and/or post harvest and/or processing insect infestation, Rodent hair - post harvest and/or processing
contamination with animal hair or excreta, Grit - harvest contamination

Significance: Aesthetic
 DEFECT

PRODUCT (Method) ACTION LEVEL

Peanuts, Multiple defects

Average of 5% or more kernels by count are rejects (insect-infested, moldy, rancid, otherwise decomposed, and dirty)
Shelled ( MPM-V89
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-10-nuts-
and-nut-products-
methods#v89))

Insects
Average of 20 or more whole insects or equivalent in 100-pound bag siftings
( MPM-V89
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-10-nuts-
and-nut-products-
methods#v89))

DEFECT SOURCE:  Insect infested - post harvest and/or processing infestation, Moldy - preharvest and/or post harvest and/or processing infection, Rancid &
decomposed - post harvest abuse, Dirty - harvest contamination.

Significance: Aesthetic, Potential health hazard - may contain mycotoxin producing fungi

Peanuts, Multiple defects

Average of 10% or more peanuts by count are rejects (insect- infested, moldy, rancid, otherwise decomposed, and dirty)
Unshelled ( MPM-V89
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-10-nuts-
and-nut-products-
methods#v89))

DEFECT SOURCE:  Insect infested - post harvest and/or processing infestation, Mold - preharvest and/or post harvest and/or processing infection, Rancid &
decomposed - post harvest abuse

Significance: Aesthetic, Potential health hazard - may contain mycotoxin producing fungi
 DEFECT

PRODUCT (Method) ACTION LEVEL

Peas: Black- Insect damage

Average of 10% or more by count of class 6 damage or higher in minimum of 12 subsamples
Eyed, Cowpeas, ( MPM-V104
Field Peas, (/food/laboratory-
Dried methods/mpm-v-11-
vegetables-and-
vegetable-
products#v104))

DEFECT SOURCE:  Pre-harvest and/or post harvest insect infestation

Significance: Aesthetic

Peas, Black- Insect larvae

Average of 5 or more cowpea curculio larvae or the equivalent per No. 2 can
Eyed Peas, ( MPM-V104
Cowpeas, (/food/laboratory-
(Succulent), methods/mpm-v-11-
Canned vegetables-and-
vegetable-
products#v104))

DEFECT SOURCE:  Pre-harvest and/or post harvest insect infestation

Significance: Aesthetic
 DEFECT

PRODUCT (Method) ACTION LEVEL

Peas and Insect filth

Average of 5% or more by count insect-infested and/or insect-damaged by storage insects in a minimum of 12 subsamples
Beans, Dried ( MPM-V104
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-11-
vegetables-and-
vegetable-
products#v104))

DEFECT SOURCE:  preharvest and/or post harvest and/or processing infestation

Significance: Aesthetic

Pepper, Whole Insect filth and/or insect- Average of 1% or more pieces by weight are infested and/or moldy
(Black & White) mold

( MPM-V39
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-8-
spices-condiments-
flavors-and-crude-
drugs#v39))

Mammalian excreta
Average of 1 mg or more mammalian excreta per pound
( MPM-V39
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-8-
spices-condiments-
flavors-and-crude-
drugs#v39))
 DEFECT

PRODUCT (Method) ACTION LEVEL

Foreign matter
Average of 1% or more pickings and siftings by weight
( MPM-V39
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-8-
spices-condiments-
flavors-and-crude-
drugs#v39))

DEFECT SOURCE:  Insect infested - post harvest and/or processing infestation, Moldy - post harvest and/or processing infection, Mammalian excreta - post
harvest and/or processing animal contamination, Foreign material - post harvest contamination 

Significance: Aesthetic, Potential health hazard - mammalian excreta may contain salmonella

Pepper, Ground Insect filth

Average of 475 or more insect fragments per 50 grams
(AOAC 972.40)

Rodent filth
Average of 2 or more rodent hairs per 50 grams
(AOAC 972.40)

DEFECT SOURCE: Insect fragments - post harvest and/or processing insect infestation, Rodent hair - post harvest and/or processing contamination with
animal hair or excreta

Significance: Aesthetic

Pineapple, Mold
Average mold count is 20% or more

Canned (AOAC 970.75, MPM-V73) OR

The mold count of any 1 subsample is 60% or more

DEFECT SOURCE:  Processing mold contamination

Significance: Aesthetic
 DEFECT

PRODUCT (Method) ACTION LEVEL

Pineapple Juice Mold

Average mold count is 15% or more

(AOAC 970.75) OR

The mold count of any 1 subsample is 40% or more

DEFECT SOURCE:  Processing mold contamination

Significance: Aesthetic

Plums, Canned Rot

Average of 5% or more plums by count with rot spots larger than the area of a circle 12 mm in diameter
( MPM-V51
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-9-fruits-
and-fruit-products-v-51-v-
78#v51))

DEFECT SOURCE:  Pre-harvest and/or post harvest infection

Significance: Aesthetic

Popcorn Rodent filth

1 or more rodent excreta pellets are found in 1 or more subsamples, and 1 or more rodent hairs are found in 2 or more other
(AOAC 950.91) subsamples

OR

2 or more rodent hairs per pound and rodent hair is found in 50% or more of the subsamples

OR

20 or more gnawed grains per pound and rodent hair is found in 50% or more of the subsamples

Field corn 5% or more by weight of field corn

 DEFECT

PRODUCT (Method) ACTION LEVEL

DEFECT SOURCE:  Rodent excreta - post harvest and/or processing animal contamination, Rodent hair - post harvest and/or processing contamination with
animal hair or excreta, Rodent gnawing - post harvest and/or processing damage, Field corn - harvest contamination

Significance: Aesthetic

Potato Chips Rot

Average of 6% or more pieces by weight contain rot
( MPM-V113
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-11-
vegetables-and-
vegetable-
products#v113))

DEFECT SOURCE:  Pre-harvest and/or post harvest infection

Significance: Aesthetic

Prunes Dried Multiple defects

Average of a minimum of 10 subsamples is 5% or more prunes by count are rejects (insect-infested, moldy or decomposed,
and Dehydrated, ( MPM-V53 dirty, and/or otherwise unfit )
Low-Moisture (/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-9-fruits-
and-fruit-products-v-51-v-
78#v53))

DEFECT SOURCE:  Insect infested - preharvest infestation, Moldy & decomposed - preharvest infection, Dirty - harvest contamination, Otherwise unfit -
preharvest condition 

Significance: Aesthetic
 DEFECT

PRODUCT (Method) ACTION LEVEL

Prunes, Pitted Pits

Average of 2% or more by count with whole pits and/or pit fragments 2 mm or longer and 4 or more of 10 subsamples of pitted
( MPM-V53 prunes have 2% or more by count with whole pits and/or pit fragments 2 mm or longer
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-9-fruits-
and-fruit-products-v-51-v-
78#v53))

DEFECT SOURCE:  Processing

Significance: Mouth/tooth injury 

Puree, Apricot, Mold

Average mold count is 12% or more
Peach and Pear (AOAC 982.33)

DEFECT SOURCE:  preharvest and/or post harvest and/or processing infection

Significance: Aesthetic

Raisins, Natural Mold

Average of 10 subsamples is 5% or more, by count, moldy raisins
& Golden ( MPM-V76
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-9-fruits-
and-fruit-products-v-51-v-
78#v76))
 DEFECT

PRODUCT (Method) ACTION LEVEL

Sand and Grit

Average of 40 mg or more of sand and grit per 100 grams of natural or golden bleached raisins
( MPM-V76
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-9-fruits-
and-fruit-products-v-51-v-
78#v76))

DEFECT SOURCE:  Mold - post harvest and/or processing infection, Sand - post harvest contamination

Significance: Aesthetic

Raisins, Golden Insects and insect eggs

10 or more whole or equivalent insects and 35 Drosophila eggs per 8 oz.
(AOAC 969.42 & MPM-
V76 (/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-9-fruits-
and-fruit-products-v-51-v-
78#v76))

DEFECT SOURCE:  Post harvest and/or processing infestation

Significance: Aesthetic

Sage, Whole Insect filth

Average of 5% or more pieces by weight are insect infested
Plant, ( MPM-V32
Unprocessed (/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-8-
spices-condiments-
flavors-and-crude-
drugs#v32))
 DEFECT

PRODUCT (Method) ACTION LEVEL

Mammalian excreta
Average of 1 mg or more per pound after processing
( MPM-V32
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-8-
spices-condiments-
flavors-and-crude-
drugs#v32))

DEFECT SOURCE:  Insect infested - preharvest and/or post harvest and/or processing infestation, Mammalian excreta - post harvest and/or processing animal
contamination

Significance: Aesthetic

Sage, Ground Insect filth

Average of 200 or more insect fragments per 10 grams
(AOAC 985.38)

Rodent filth
Average of 9 or more rodent hairs per 10 grams
(AOAC 985.38)

DEFECT SOURCE:  Insect fragments - preharvest and/or post harvest and/or processing infestation, Rodent hair - post harvest and/or processing
contamination with animal hair or excreta

Significance: Aesthetic

Sauerkraut Insects
Average of more than 50 thrips per 100 grams
(AOAC 955.45)

DEFECT SOURCE:  Pre-harvest insect infestation

Significance: Aesthetic
 DEFECT

PRODUCT (Method) ACTION LEVEL

Sesame Seeds Insect filth

Average of 5% or more seeds by weight are insect-infested or damaged
( MPM-V32
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-8-
spices-condiments-
flavors-and-crude-
drugs#v32))

Mold
Average of 5% or more seeds by weight are decomposed
( MPM-V32
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-8-
spices-condiments-
flavors-and-crude-
drugs#v32))

Mammalian excreta
Average of 5 mg or more mammalian excreta per found
( MPM-V32
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-8-
spices-condiments-
flavors-and-crude-
drugs#v32))
 DEFECT

PRODUCT (Method) ACTION LEVEL

Foreign matter
Average of 0.5% or more foreign matter by weight
( MPM-V32
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-8-
spices-condiments-
flavors-and-crude-
drugs#v32))

DEFECT SOURCE:  Insect infested - preharvest and/or post harvest and/or processing infestation, Mold - preharvest infection, Mammalian excreta - post
harvest and/or processing animal contamination, Foreign matter - post processing and/or processing contamination

Significance: Aesthetic

Spices, Leafy, Insect filth and/or mold Average of 5% or more pieces by weight are insect-infested and/or moldy
Other Than Bay ( MPM-V32
Leaves (/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-8-
spices-condiments-
flavors-and-crude-
drugs#v32))

Mammalian excreta
Average of 1 mg or more of Mammalian excreta per pound after processing
( MPM-V32
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-8-
spices-condiments-
flavors-and-crude-
drugs#v32))
 DEFECT

PRODUCT (Method) ACTION LEVEL

DEFECT SOURCE:  Insect infested - preharvest and/or post harvest and/or processing infestation, Mold - preharvest and/or post harvest and/or processing
infection, Mammalian excreta - post harvest and/or processing animal contamination

Significance: Aesthetic

Spinach, Insects and mites

Average of 50 or more aphids, thrips and/or mites per 100 grams

Canned or (AOAC 974.33) OR

Frozen 2 or more 3 mm or longer larvae and/or larval fragments or spinach worms (caterpillars) whose aggregate length exceeds 12
mm are present in 24 pounds

OR

Leaf miners of any size average 8 or more per 100 grams or leaf miners 3 mm or longer average 4 or more per 100 grams

DEFECT SOURCE:  Pre-harvest infestation 

Significance: Aesthetic

Strawberries: Mold
Average mold count of 45% or more and mold count of at least half of the subsamples is 55% or more
Frozen Whole or (AOAC 952.22)
Sliced
Grit Berries taste gritty

DEFECT SOURCE:  Mold - post harvest and/or processing infection, Grit - harvest contamination

Significance: Aesthetic
 DEFECT

PRODUCT (Method) ACTION LEVEL

Thyme, Whole Insect filth

Average of 5% or more pieces by weight are insect infested and/or moldy
Ploant, ( MPM-V32
Unprocessed (/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-8-
spices-condiments-
flavors-and-crude-
drugs#v32))

Mammalian excreta
Average of 1 mg or more mammalian excreta per pound after processing
( MPM-V32
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-8-
spices-condiments-
flavors-and-crude-
drugs#v32))

DEFECT SOURCE:  Insect infested - preharvest and/or post harvest and/or processing infestation, Mold - preharvest and/or post harvest and/or processing
infection, Mammalian excreta - post harvest and/or processing animal contamination

Significance: Aesthetic

Thyme, Ground Insect filth

Average of 925 or more insect fragments per 10 grams
(AOAC 975.49)

Rodent filth
Average of 2 or more rodent hairs per 10 grams
(AOAC 975.49)
 DEFECT

PRODUCT (Method) ACTION LEVEL

DEFECT SOURCE:  Insect fragments - preharvest and/or post harvest and/or processing infestation Rodent hair - post harvest and/or processing
contamination with animal hair or excreta

Significance: Aesthetic

Thyme, Insect filth

Average of 325 insect fragments or more per 10 grams
Unground, (AOAC 975.49)
Processed
Rodent filth
Average of 2 rodent hairs or more per 10 grams
(AOAC 975.49)

DEFECT SOURCE:  Insect fragments - preharvest and/or post harvest and/or processing insect infestation, Rodent hair - post harvest and/or processing
contamination with animal hair or excreta

Significance: Aesthetic

Tomatoes, Drosophila fly

Average of 10 or more fly eggs per 500 grams

Canned (AOAC 955.46) OR

5 or more fly eggs and 1 or more maggots per 500 grams

OR

2 or more maggots per 500 grams

DEFECT SOURCE:  Pre-harvest and/or post harvest and/or processing insect infestation

Significance: Aesthetic

Tomatoes, Mold
Average mold count in 6 subsamples is 15% or more and the counts of all of the subsamples are more than 12%
Canned, with (AOAC 945.90)
(or) without
Juice (Based on DEFECT SOURCE:  Pre-harvest and/or post harvest and/or processing infection

Drained Juice) Significance: Aesthetic

 DEFECT

PRODUCT (Method) ACTION LEVEL

Tomatoes, Mold
Average mold count in 6 subsamples is 29% or more and the counts of all of the subsamples are more than 25%
Canned Packed (AOAC 945.90)
in Tomato Puree
(Based on DEFECT SOURCE:  Pre-harvest and/or post harvest and/or processing infection

Drained Liquid) Significance: Aesthetic

Tomato Juice Drosophila fly

Average of 10 or more fly eggs per 100 grams

(AOAC 955.46) OR

5 or more fly eggs and 1 or more maggots per 100 grams

OR

2 or more maggots per 100 grams, in a minimum of 12 subsamples

Mold
Average mold count in 6 subsamples is 24% or more and the counts of all of the subsamples are more than 20%
(AOAC 965.41)

DEFECT SOURCE:  Fly eggs & maggots - preharvest and/or post harvest and/or processing insect infestation, Mold - preharvest and/or post harvest and/or
processing infection

Significance: Aesthetic

Tomato Paste, Drosophila fly

Average of 30 or more fly eggs per 100 grams

Pizza and other (AOAC 955.46) OR

Sauces 15 or more fly eggs and 1 or more maggots per 100 grams

OR

2 or more maggots per 100 grams in a minimum of 12 subsamples

DEFECT SOURCE:  Pre-harvest and/or post harvest and/or processing insect infestation

Significance: Aesthetic
 DEFECT

PRODUCT (Method) ACTION LEVEL

Tomato Puree Drosophila fly

Average of 20 or more fly eggs per 100 grams

(AOAC 955.46) OR

10 or more fly eggs and 1 or more maggots per 100 grams

OR

2 or more maggots per 100 grams in a minimum of 12 subsamples

DEFECT SOURCE:  Pre-harvest and/or post harvest and/or processing insect infestation

Significance: Aesthetic

Tomato Paste Mold

Average mold count in 6 subsamples is 45% or more and the mold counts of all of the subsamples are more than 40%
(or) Puree (AOAC 965.41 **)

DEFECT SOURCE:  Pre-harvest and/or post harvest and/or processing infection

Significance: Aesthetic

Pizza and Other Mold

Average mold count in 6 subsamples is 34% or more and the counts of all of the subsamples are more than 30%
Tomato Sauces (AOAC 945.92)

DEFECT SOURCE:  Pre-harvest and/or post harvest and/or processing infection

SIGNIFICANCE: Aesthetic

Tomato Sauce, Mold

Average mold count in 6 subsamples is 45% or more and the mold counts of all of the subsamples are more than 40%
Undiluted (AOAC 965.41)

DEFECT SOURCE:  Pre-harvest and/or post harvest and/or processing infection

SIGNIFICANCE: Aesthetic
 DEFECT

PRODUCT (Method) ACTION LEVEL

Tomato Catsup Mold

Average mold count in 6 subsamples is 55% or more
(AOAC 965.41)

DEFECT SOURCE:  Pre-harvest and/or post harvest and/or processing infection

SIGNIFICANCE: Aesthetic

Tomato Powder, Mold

Average mold count in 6 subsamples is 45% or more and the mold counts of all of the subsamples are mold than 40%
Except Spray- (AOAC 972.42)
Dried
DEFECT SOURCE:  Pre-harvest and/or post harvest and /or processing infection

SIGNIFICANCE: Aesthetic

Tomato Powder, Mold

Average mold count in 6 subsamples is 67% or more
Spray-Dried (AOAC 972.42)

DEFECT SOURCE:  Pre-harvest and/or post harvest and/or processing infection

SIGNIFICANCE: Aesthetic

Tomato Soup Mold

Average mold count in 6 subsamples is 45% or more and the mold counts of all of the subsamples are more than 40%
and Tomato (AOAC 945.91)
Prouducts
DEFECT SOURCE:  Pre-harvest and/or post harvest and/or processing infection

Significance: Aesthetic
 DEFECT

PRODUCT (Method) ACTION LEVEL

Wheat Insect damage

Average of 32 or more insect-damaged kernels per 100 grams
( MPM-V15
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-3-grains-
and-grain-products))

Rodent filth
Average of 9 mg or more rodent excreta pellets and/or pellet fragments per kilogram
( MPM-V15
(/food/laboratory-
methods/mpm-v-3-grains-
and-grain-products))

DEFECT SOURCE:  Insect damage - preharvest and/or post harvest and/or processing infestation, Excreta - post harvest and/or processing animal
contamination.

Significance: Aesthetic

Wheat Flour Insect filth

Average of 75 or more insect fragments per 50 grams
(AOAC 972.32)

Rodent filth
Average of 1 or more rodent hairs per 50 grams
(AOAC 972.32)

DEFECT SOURCE:  Insect fragments - preharvest and/or post harvest and/or processing insect infestation, Rodent hair - post harvest and/or processing
contamination with animal hair or excreta.

SIGNIFICANCE: Aesthetic
May 1995; Revised March 1997 and May 1998;

*February 2005 - Source corrected from MPM-V92 to MPM-V32

**February 2005 - Source corrected from 955.46 to 965.41

Related Information
Sanitation & Transportation Guidance Documents & Regulatory Information (/food/guidance-documents-regulatory-information-
topic-food-and-dietary-supplements/sanitation-transportation-guidance-documents-regulatory-information)