Frozen Corn on the Cob Grades and Standards

Grades of Frozen Corn on the Cob

1. U.S. Grade A frozen corn-on-the-cob is composed of ears with similar varietal characteristics and that have a good flavor and odor. The ears have a good color; are at least reasonably uniform in size; are at least reasonably well develop; are practically free from defects; and are tender. The product scores not less than 90 points when rated in accordance with the scoring system outlined in this subpart.  

2. U.S. Grade B frozen corn-on-the-cob is composed of ears with similar varietal characteristics and that have at least a reasonably good flavor and odor. The ears have at least a reasonably good color; may lack uniformity of size and development; and are at least reasonably tender. The product scores not less than 80 points when rated in accordance with the scoring system outlined in this subpart.

3. Substandard is the quality of frozen corn-on-the-cob that fails to meet the requirements of U.S. Grade B.

Photo Guide

Photo Guide for Category (or Defect) Classification of Corn-on-the-Cob.

Detailed standards, Inspection Instructions & Other Resources:

• U.S. Grade Standards for Frozen Corn on the Cob (pdf)
• Certification Manual
• Condition of Container Manual
• Domestic Origin Verification (DOV) Program Manual
• Foreign Material Manual
• General Procedures Manual
• Safety Manual
• Sampling Manual
• Sanitation Manual
• SC-364-97 Score Sheet for Frozen Corn on the Cob
• Technical Procedures Manual
• USDA Purchases Manual