Code of Maine Rules
01 - DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, CONSERVATION AND FORESTRY
001 - AGRICULTURE - GENERAL
Chapter 339 - OFFICIAL GRADES FOR SARDINES IN TOMATO SAUCE PACKED IN 15 OZ. OVAL CANS
Part I - CONDENSED GRADING
Section 001-339-I-3 - Fill of Container (15 Oz. Oval Can)
Current through 2024-38, September 18, 2024
A. Overfilled cans that are "flippers" or "swells" at room temperature, i.e., 68EF. cannot be graded above "Standard" regardless of the total score. A "flipper" is a can having a convex or bulging cover which may be pressed concave or normal again with finger pressure but will spring out again (convex) after the pressure is released. A "swell" is a can with the cover permanently convex or distended.
B. Underfilled cans cannot be graded above "Standard" regardless of the total score when they fail to comply with the minimum drained weight of fish and the minimum weight of tomato sauce listed in Table No. 1. Any lot containing a can in which the tomato sauce is entirely lacking or is present in such a small amount as to be difficult to detect, shall be graded under Part II (Detailed Grading).
Table No. 1
Drained Weight Requirements for 15 Oz. Oval Cans
Tomato Sauce to be Added Per Can | Maximum Drained Weight of Fish Suggested for Concave Ends |
56.7 gms. or 2 oz. | 368.5 gms. or 13 oz. |
Minimum Drained Weight of Fish to Comply | Minimum Weight of Free Sauce Canned |
297.7 gms. or 10.5 oz. | 40.8 gms. or 1.44 oz. |