Section 155.31. Sampling procedure.

 

(1)   Representative sampling. Each load of sweet corn shall be graded on the basis of a grading sample collected under s. ATCP 155.03 (3) . The grading sample shall be collected and prepared in compliance with this section. The grading sample shall be representative of the entire load of sweet corn and shall consist of all qualitative gradations observed in the load by the person who collects the sample.

(2)   Method of sampling. Component samples of approximately equal weight shall be collected from at least 5 separate locations which are representative of the load. The component samples shall then be combined to form a composite grading sample weighing at least 50 lbs.

(3)   Sample preparation. The composite grading sample under sub. (1) shall be prepared for grading as follows:

(a) All ears in the sample shall be completely husked. The shank or stem and any excess tip on the husked ears shall be removed.

(b) If a portion of the shank or stem remaining on any husked ear extends more than one inch from the base of the cob, the shank shall be broken or cut off at a point as close as possible but not more than one inch below the base of the cob.

(c) If the tip of the cob has an area without usable kernels measuring more than 1/4 the length of the entire cob, enough of the tip shall be broken or cut off so that the remaining portion without usable kernels is not greater than 1/4 the length of the trimmed ear.

(4)   Tare. Actual tare shall be used in grading sweet corn. Actual tare is the amount deducted from the gross weight of the sample for foreign material only. Foreign material consists of shanks, stalks, leaves, weeds, stones, sticks, loose dirt or foreign material other than the ear of corn itself. Foreign material including shanks, stalks and leaves which are collected as part of the sample shall not be removed prior to analysis of the sample.

History: Cr. Register, December, 1990, No. 420 , eff. 1-1-91.