What might a peanut inspector look for when grading peanuts?

A peanut inspector focuses on visual defects and overall appearance when grading peanuts as these factors are critical indicators of quality. The visual assessment includes checking for imperfections such as discoloration, size uniformity, and any signs of damage or disease. These attributes directly affect the peanuts' marketability and consumer acceptance. Inspectors look for a well-formed kernel, appropriate color, and the absence of foreign materials, all of which ensure that the peanuts meet industry standards and consumer expectations.

While factors such as market potential, growing conditions, and packaging are important in the broader context of peanut commerce, they do not play a direct role in the grading process as performed by inspectors, who primarily evaluate the physical characteristics of the peanuts themselves at the point of inspection.