Not all classification steps are imposed, but there are clear obligations on labeling, origin, and compliance with minimum marketing requirements.
New obligations introduced by EU Regulation 2023/2429
As of January 1, 2025, EU Delegated Regulation 2023/2429 replaced Regulation 543/2011 and introduced updated obligations regarding the marketing of fruit and vegetables.
The provisions cover minimum quality requirements, labeling, indication of origin, and compliance checks.
In Italy, the Ministerial Decree of December 20, 2024, adjusted national regulations to bring them in line with the new obligations.
The requirement does not cover all classification steps in the broad sense (i.e., sorting into classes), but:
- Mandatory country-of-origin labelling for many categories of fruit and vegetables, including shelled nuts, dried products, some IV gamma products, is now explicitly required.
- Produce placed on the market must meet minimum quality requirements set out in the regulations in order to be sold as fresh fruit and vegetables, unless it is intended for processing or direct sale with exemptions.
- Exemptions and waivers are provided for non-compliant products if they are to be processed, donated, or sold directly from the producer.
To summarize: total classification is not imposed for every fruit, but there are definite obligations that require certain attributes and indicators to be declared and adhered to.
Which parts of the classification are mandatory
It is useful to distinguish what is actually mandatory from processes that remain optional but recommended:
| Element | Mandatory (2025) | Optional / by company policy |
|---|---|---|
| Indication of the country of origin | Mandatory for many categories (dried fruits, dried products, IV gamma) | For other fruits and vegetables where not specified |
| Minimum quality requirements | Yes, in order to sell as a compliant fruit and vegetable product | Higher quality classes |
| Sorting into classes (grade No. 1, Extra, class II, etc.). | Not always mandatory – may be required by markets or contracts | Highly recommended for transparency and quality |
| Waivers/exemptions | Permits for products for processing, direct sale, donation | Applicable only if documented and within regulatory limits |
This framework shows that compulsoriness concerns specific attributes and conditions, not the entire classification process in every case.
Why fruit grading is important though not always mandatory
Even when not imposed by law, classification brings concrete benefits:
- Batch uniformity: facilitates logistics, transportation and customer acceptance.
- Valuation: premium classes (grade No. 1, Extra) can be sold with more margin.
- Reduced complaints: consistency in batches reduces disputes and returns.
- Image and transparency: show the market that the company follows strict criteria even beyond the regulatory minimum.
- Technical integration: facilitates the adoption of technologies that operate according to defined rules.
What grade No. 1 fruit means
Although not always required by the legislature, the term grade No. 1 is used commercially to denote fruit with high characteristics: uniform in size, free of visible defects, homogeneous color and good aesthetic yield.
Those who buy grade No. 1 fruit expect a product that exceeds the minimum requirements imposed by the regulation.
This “premium” step is important when buyers require high specifications and lot consistency.
Technologies to keep “mandatory” classification under control
To meet regulatory requirements while offering superior grades, you need a line equipped with reliable technologies: grading machines that can be connected to weighing, visual sensors, rollers systems for external analysis, and software that can handle customized recipes.
Application examples (different fruits)
| Fruit | Relevant obligation | Useful technology | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shelled almonds & hazelnuts | Mandatory origin on label | Sensors and vision + source archive | Regulatory compliance and transparency |
| Fresh generic fruits | Minimum quality requirements for marketing | Electronic grading machines, RGB vision | Compliant and competitive Italian batches |
How to reconcile regulatory obligation and commercial value
Although the entire classification is not imposed, the best companies adopt clear processes that exceed the minimum required.
Here are some strategies:
- Establish internal criteria based on measurable and repeatable parameters.
- It uses technologies that support the automation of internal selection and classification.
- Stores source information transparently for labels and verification.
- Provide separate paths for higher grades (grade No. 1) while still meeting basic requirements.
- Constantly monitors batches and updates thresholds and recipes based on harvest and market.
Operational guide to comply with mandatory fruit classification
If you want to check whether your line is meeting its 2025 obligations while enhancing the value of your product, follow these steps:
- Check to see if your fruits fall into the categories with mandatory “origin on label.”
- Adjust labels to new regulations (clear origin separate from place of packaging).
- Applies the minimum quality requirements set by EU Regulation 2023/2429.
- It integrates measurement, vision and calibration technologies to automate the process.
- Define higher classes only when the raw material allows.
- Document everything: lotuses, data, reports, origin; maintain traceability.
This way you can ensure regulatory compliance and at the same time differentiate your premium products.
Do you want support to implement these solutions in your company?
Request technical advice and find out how to structure grading in your facility in accordance with the new rules.