Sec. 162.3. Apple juice and cider/fresh apple juice standards

(a) General.

New York State Seal of Quality apple juice and cider/fresh apple juice shall be derived from apples grown in New York State. Products shall be in compliance with applicable trademark rules and regulations and the following product and processing facility requirements.

(b) Product.

(1) Seal of Quality juice product generally classified as juice shall meet or exceed the minimum requirements for Style 1—Clear—Grade A juice as established by the United States Standards for Grades of Canned Apple Juice except that no concentrates will be allowed.

(2) Seal of Quality cider/fresh apple juice product normally classified as cider shall meet or exceed the minimum requirements for Style 2—Cloudy—Grade A juice as established by the United States Standards for Grades of Canned Apple Juice except the juice need not be processed with the addition of antioxidents or be so processed as to assure preservation of the product or packaged in hermetically sealed containers, further provided, however, that said product is so handled as to insure non-fermented product offering. In addition, no concentrates will be allowed.

(c) Processing facility.

Seal of Quality juice and/or cider processing and packaging is restricted to those plants possessing a current Department of Agriculture and Markets, article 20-C processing license and these plants must maintain a satisfactory inspection record.

(d) Containers and markings.

All packages and labels are subject to approval by the Department of Agriculture and Markets and have affixed the official Seal of Quality designation. Package approval shall be based upon the ability of the package to maintain the quality standards and integrity of the product.