§52.1007. Uniformity of size. — Inbound Citations

(1) Except as provided in paragraph (d) of this section, the importation into the United States of any lot of dates for packaging or dates in retail packages is prohibited unless the dates are wholesome and unadulterated and meet the following grade requirements which are determined to be comparable to those imposed upon domestic dates handled pursuant to Order No. 987, as amended (part 987 of this chapter: The whole or pitted dates in the lot are of one variety, and are of such quality and condition that upon inspection on the basis of a representative sample thereof, with hydration (of the sample) in accordance with good commercial practice or without any hydration, the dates possess a reasonably good color, are reasonably uniform in size, are reasonably free from defects, possess a reasonably good character, and score not less than 80 points when scored in accordance with the scoring system applicable to U.S. Grade B dates, as prescribed in the U.S. Standards for Grades of Dates (§§ 52.1001 through 52.1011 of this chapter): Provided, That not more than 25 percent, by weight, of the dates may possess semidry or dry calyx ends except that not more than 5 percent, by weight, of the dates may possess dry calyx ends: And provided further, That in determining the grade for pitted dates, the pitted dates shall not be scored as damaged because of the longitudinal slit caused by removing the pit or the mashing resulting therefrom unless the flesh is seriously torn or mangled.