Imported grapefruits of greater than 15 standard packed cartons (12 bushels) are subject to Section 8e requirements and inspection. Inspection costs are paid for by the applicant. View the regulation.
All grapefruit imported into the United States must meet the following minimum grade and size requirements prior to importation:
Seedless Red must meet minimum grade U.S. No. 1 with a minimum diameter of 3 inches.
Seedless, except Red must meet minimum grade U.S. No. 1 with a minimum diameter of 3 inches.
Grapefruit regulations do not apply to imported quantities of less than 15 standard packed cartons (12 bushels). The Importer's Exempt Commodity Form (SC-6) is used for grapefruit for the consumption in exempted outlets such as charitable institutions, distribution by relief agencies, or commercial processing. Commercial processing is defined as physically altering the form or chemical composition of the fruit through canning, freezing, dehydrating, pulping, juicing, or heating of the product. The act of slicing, dicing, or peeling is not considered commercial processing.
The SC-6 exemption form must now be filed through the Compliance and Enforcement Management System (CEMS). The MOLS system previously utilized by AMS has been transitioned to CEMS.
Visit Section 8e Exemptions – SC-6 Certificate for further information on the new CEMS and SC-6 Certificates. Also, visit Filing a SC-6 Certificate in CEMS for directions for registering for CEMS and instructions on filing a SC-6 Certificate.
Grapefruit importers should arrange for inspection and certification at least one day prior to entry at Port inspection offices, two days prior to entry at the Field Operations Section.