Peanut Inspector Certification Practice Exam

How many sacks should be sampled from a load of 5?

1. 1 or 2

2. 2 or 3

3. 3 or 4

4. 4 or 5

The correct answer is: 2 or 3

The correct choice is based on sampling procedures that ensure an accurate and representative assessment of the load. When dealing with a load containing five sacks of peanuts, a sample size of two or three sacks is recommended to effectively gauge the quality of the entire load. Sampling more than one sack helps in identifying variability within the load, which may not be apparent from inspecting just one sack. The choice of two or three allows for a balance between getting enough data to form a reliable conclusion without overwhelming the inspector with too much material to analyze. This sampling method aids in reducing the chances of missing defects or contamination that may affect the quality of the peanuts. Moreover, auditing practices in food inspection typically emphasize the importance of representative sampling, which is crucial for ensuring food safety and quality. Therefore, the option to sample two or three sacks strikes an appropriate compromise for effective evaluation.