Canned ripe olives are processed as two distinct types. Unless a specific type is stated in this subpart, “canned ripe olives” refers to olives of either “ripe-type” or “green-ripe type.”

(a) Ripe type. “Ripe type” olives are those which have been treated and oxidized in processing to produce a typical dark brown to black color.

(b) Green-ripe type. “Green-ripe type” olives are those which have not been oxidized in processing; which range in color from yellow-green; green-yellow or other greenish casts; and which may be mottled.