Graders and Sorters, Agricultural Products
Career Snapshot
Have you ever wondered who decides whether an egg is grade A or a steak is prime? Consumers rely on the expertise of agricultural graders and sorters. They determine what is best, second best, and unacceptable.
Graders and sorters inspect agricultural items and raw foods on their way to market. They evaluate them based on their size, weight, look, and condition. Eggs, for example, are classified based on their colour and size. Meat is graded according on its fat layers. Products that are deemed to be subpar are discarded. The price that can be paid for the goods is determined by the grade it is assigned.
Work is often performed in clean, air-conditioned facilities, and because some items can spoil if not evaluated and sent swiftly, work hours may include evenings and weekends. Sorters and graders must be able to lift heavy boxes for examination and rapidly identify the quality and grade of items while standing for long periods of time.
Beginners begin with simple eye inspection and progress to on-the-job training. Those who test items are frequently required to have a high school diploma. Despite the fact that job development in this industry is limited, there are chances at agricultural and food product companies, produce packing operations, and some grocery shops. Sorters and graders contribute to the strict standards that keep our country's food goods among the best in the world.