Is it permissible to pay Zakat using the lowest quality produce?
Chapter on Zakat on Crops and Fruits
Al-Mughni
Book of Zakat
Primary text
It is impermissible to pay Zakat with the lowest quality produce. This is established by the command in the Quran: "And do not intend to spend from that which is vile" (Quran 2:267). Abu Umamah Sahl ibn Hunaif explained this verse as referring to two types of dates, Al-Ja'rur and the color of Al-Habeek, which the Prophet (peace be upon him) forbade from being taken as Zakat.
Supporting text
It is also impermissible to substitute the payment by giving the good quality portion to cover the due amount for the poor quality portion, based on the Prophet's saying: "Beware of taking the best of their wealth."