CODEX STAN 103-1981 Standard for Quick Frozen Blueberries
1. SCOPE
This standard shall apply to quick frozen blueberries of the species Vaccinium corymbosum L.1 2, Vaccinium angustifolium AIT.3 and Vaccinium ashei READE,4, as defined below and offered for direct consumption without further processing, except for repacking, if required. It does not apply to the product when indicated as intended for further processing or for other industrial purposes, nor to the bilberries5 as covered by the Standard for Quick Frozen Bilberries (CODEX STAN 76-1981).
2. DESCRIPTION
2.1 Product Definition
Quick frozen blueberries are the product prepared from fresh, clean, sound, ripe and stemmed blueberries of firm texture, conforming to the characteristics of Vaccinium corymbosum L.2 3 Vaccinium angustifolium AIT. and Vaccinium ashei READE, and which are packed with or without a dry sugar or a sugar syrup and frozen in an appropriate manner.
2.2 Process Definition
Quick frozen blueberries are the product subjected to a freezing process in appropriate equipment and complying with the conditions laid down hereafter. This freezing operation shall be carried out in such a way that the range of temperature of maximum crystallization is passed quickly. The quick freezing process shall not be regarded as complete unless and until the product temperature has reached -18°C (0°F) at the thermal centre after thermal stabilization. The recognized practice of repacking quick frozen products under controlled conditions is permitted.
