Peanut Inspector Certification Practice Exam

What is the primary function of the Mechanical Screen Shaker in peanut inspection?

1. To remove contaminants from peanut kernels

2. To measure the moisture content of the peanuts

3. To size the peanut kernels

4. To classify the peanuts by weight

The correct answer is: To size the peanut kernels

The primary function of the Mechanical Screen Shaker in peanut inspection is to size the peanut kernels. This device utilizes a series of screens with varying mesh sizes to separate peanuts based on their dimensions. By shaking the peanuts through these screens, the operator can categorize the kernels into different size groups, which is crucial for quality control and ensuring that peanuts meet specific market standards. Proper sizing also influences subsequent processing steps, such as roasting or packaging, as different sizes may require different handling or treatment processes. While the other functions mentioned are important in the overall inspection process, they are not performed by the Mechanical Screen Shaker. For instance, removing contaminants might be a task for other cleaning equipment, measuring moisture content typically involves separate moisture analysis devices, and classification by weight is usually done with scales rather than through mechanical screening. Thus, the Shaker plays a vital role specifically in sizing, which is essential for ensuring uniformity and meeting consumer expectations in the peanut industry.