Question

The maximum permissible limit of husk-less seeds in sunflowers is-

• A. 1.0% (by wt.)
• B. 2.0% (by wt.)
• C. 2.0% (by no.)
• D. Two per kg

Hint:

Sunflower seeds without a pericarp are called husk-less seeds. According to IMSCS standards, their maximum limit is 2.0% by count (number), not by weight.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
To maintain seed quality and market standards, certified seed production must comply with established physical and genetic purity criteria.
Under the Indian Minimum Seed Certification Standards (IMSCS), specific limits are defined for defective or damaged seeds in various crops.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
In sunflower (Helianthus annuus), seeds can sometimes lose their tough, protective outer pericarp (husk) during harvesting, threshing, or processing.
These naked seeds are referred to as husk-less seeds.
Husk-less seeds are highly undesirable because:
1. They lack a protective layer, making them vulnerable to mechanical damage during transport and handling.
2. They are susceptible to soil-borne pathogens and storage pests, which reduces seed viability.
3. They exhibit poor and uneven germination when planted in the field.
According to the Indian Minimum Seed Certification Standards, the maximum permissible limit for husk-less seeds in sunflower seed lots (for both foundation and certified seed classes) is set at 2.0% by number.
Evaluating this limit by count (number) rather than weight ensures accurate quality control, as husk-less seeds are significantly lighter than fully intact, filled seeds.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Therefore, the maximum permissible limit of husk-less seeds in sunflower is 2.0% (by no.).