Just about everyone is familiar to some degree with the grading of meat products. It’s not uncommon to hear talk about Grade A poultry or Prime beef (although finding these can be quite challenging). The presumption is the higher the grade, the more enjoyable the flavor. So if this is true for products like beef, what about vegetables? Are there differences in the quality of vegetables? Could it be those differences influence flavor? As it turns out, yes.

The USDA administers a voluntary grading program for producers of vegetables. This means some companies choose to participate, while others do not. Not to say that ungraded vegetables necessarily have a bad taste or are unfit for consumption. But wouldn’t it be nice to be informed about the quality you are serving? That way when the boss sits down to dinner at your house, you’re still employed by the end of the meal.

USDA Vegetable Grading Program

USDA Grade A “Fancy” Vegetables

The USDA’s established grading standards for vegetables are based on several criteria. These include color, tenderness, and freedom from blemishes. In the top position is Grade A or “Fancy” vegetables. Vegetables of this grade are selected to be of only the most vibrant color, most tender texture, and most perfect in appearance. The flavor is expected to be superb. (Celebrity Foods exclusively features Grade A vegetables.)

USDA Grade B “Good” Vegetables

Next in the graduated vegetable lineup appear Grade B or “Good” vegetables. These are more mature (read: older) vegetables. As a result the color appears slightly less vibrant, stocks are more fibrous and therefore a little tougher, and some defects may appear in the skin of the vegetable. The flavor profile is somewhat diminished when contrasted with Grade A.

USDA Grade C Vegetables

Bringing up the rear is Grade C vegetables. This category is the most mature (read: even older) vegetables. The price for this maturity is little uniformity in color and greater toughness in the vegetable flesh. It is recommended to use these in soups or other dishes with long cooking times.

No matter the grade of vegetable you choose, eating your vegetables daily contributes to good health. But wouldn’t it be nice if good health tasted better? It can. Just be sure your food provided carries USDA Grade A vegetables.

Learn more about Celebrity Foods full line of USDA Grade A vegetables. And check back next week for our piece on vegetable portion size. You’ll be surprised how easy it is to get your recommended daily vegetable allowance.