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Commodity Specification 

for Canned Vegetables

April 2021
Non-Discrimination Policy: In accordance with Federal civil rights law and U.S. Department 

of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its Agencies, offices, and 

employees, and institutions participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited 

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apply to all programs). Remedies and complaint filing deadlines vary by program or incident.

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information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.) should contact 

the responsible Agency or USDA's TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TTY) or 

contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339. Additionally, program 

information may be made available in languages other than English.

To file a program discrimination complaint, complete the USDA Program Discrimination 

Complaint Form, AD-3027, found online at How to File a Program Discrimination Complaint

and at any USDA office or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the 

information requested in the form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632-

9992. Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by: (1) mail: U.S. Department of 

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USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.
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Commodity Specification for Canned Vegetables

Table of Contents

General........................................................................................................................................... 1

U.S. Standards................................................................................................................................. 1

Product Origin................................................................................................................................. 1

Kosher Products.............................................................................................................................. 2

Halal Products................................................................................................................................. 2

Packing Season ............................................................................................................................... 3

Holding Period................................................................................................................................ 3

Fill of Container.............................................................................................................................. 3

Labels and Packaging................................................................................................................... 3

Primary Containers (Cans and Labels) ........................................................................................... 3

Secondary Containers (tray and case) for Commercial Labels....................................................... 4

Secondary Containers (case) for Non-Commercial Labels ............................................................ 4

Universal Product Codes (UPC).................................................................................................. 5

Palletization Requirements.......................................................................................................... 5

Pallets.............................................................................................................................................. 5

Unitization....................................................................................................................................... 5

Allergens......................................................................................................................................... 5

Individual Commodity Specifications......................................................................................... 6

Sodium Content Testing........................................................................................................... 6

Asparagus.................................................................................................................................... 6

Beans, Green............................................................................................................................... 7

Carrots......................................................................................................................................... 8

Corn, Whole Kernel.................................................................................................................... 8

Corn, Cream Style....................................................................................................................... 8

Mixed Vegetables....................................................................................................................... 9

Peas ............................................................................................................................................. 9

Potatoes..................................................................................................................................... 10

Pumpkin.................................................................................................................................... 10

Salsa .......................................................................................................................................... 10

Soups......................................................................................................................................... 11

Spaghetti Sauce, Meatless......................................................................................................... 11

Spinach...................................................................................................................................... 12

Sweet Potatoes.......................................................................................................................... 12

Tomatoes................................................................................................................................... 13

Concentrated Crushed Tomatoes.............................................................................................. 13

Tomato Paste............................................................................................................................. 14

Tomato Sauce ........................................................................................................................... 15

Hominy ..................................................................................................................................... 15

Inspection, Certification, and Checkloading............................................................................ 16

Requirements ................................................................................................................................ 16

Certification .................................................................................................................................. 16

Checkloading ................................................................................................................................ 17

Procedures..................................................................................................................................... 17

Laboratory Tests ........................................................................................................................... 17
ii

Failure to Meet Specifications.................................................................................................... 17

Reference Links........................................................................................................................... 18

Exhibits........................................................................................................................................ 19

Exhibit 1 - Required Markings for Non-Commercial Shipping Containers................................. 19

Exhibit 2 - Alternative Label for Shipping Containers................................................................. 20

Exhibit 3 - Sample Alternative Label for Shipping Containers.................................................... 21

Exhibit 4 - Universal Product Codes ............................................................................................ 22

Exhibit 5 - “Please Recycle” Symbol and Statement.................................................................... 23

Exhibit 6 - “Corrugated Recycles” Symbol and Statement .......................................................... 24

Exhibit 7 - USDA Symbol ............................................................................................................ 25

Exhibit 8.1 - Symbols for Kosher Products.................................................................................. 26

Exhibit 8.2 - Symbols for Halal Products..................................................................................... 26
Commodity Specification Canned Vegetables

Effective Date: April 2021 Page 1 of 26

GENERAL

U.S. Standards

Canned vegetables (product/commodity) produced under this Commodity Specification must 

meet the requirements specified in the applicable United States Standards for Grades of 

Canned Vegetables (U.S. Standards) and/or Commercial Item Description (CID) of Canned 

Vegetables effective on the date of the Solicitation/Invitation for Bid (IFB). The U.S. 

Standards and CIDs are published separately and are incorporated herein and made a part of 

this Commodity Specification.

Product Origin

In accordance with the latest version or the AMS Master Solicitation for Commodity 

Procurement – Domestic Programs (MSCP-D) Sections 4A52.225-1a, b, c, d, e, f, and 

4A52.225-3, contractors must meet all domestic origin requirements with further 

clarifications shown below.

1. Contractors will make all paperwork available to USDA that confirms fruit, 

vegetable, and nut commodities purchased for USDA food assistance outlets are 100 

percent grown in the United States. This means that products shall have originated 

entirely from crops grown, processed, and packed in the United States, its territories 

or possessions, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, or the Trust Territories of the 

Pacific Islands (hereinafter referred to as the United States) in accordance with 

responsible commercial practices, during the packing season, and from the crop 

year(s) specified. 

2. If the contractor handles any commodity originating from sources other than the 

United States, the contractor must have a written plan to segregate the commodity. 

This segregation plan will include an identification and record system for all 

commodities to ensure they are completely segregated and cannot be used to fulfill 

purchase orders awarded by USDA. Such segregation plan must be made available, 

within 10 days of purchase order award, to representatives of the Agricultural 

Marketing Service (AMS). 

3. The responsibility for compliance is borne by the contractor, regardless of whether 

the product was processed/packed in their facility or if it originated from other 

sources (i.e. subcontractors and suppliers). If a contractor receives crops or 

products originating from other sources, it is up to the contractor to obtain proof of 

domestic origin compliance from those sources.

4. Examples of documentation submitted may include, but are not limited to: load or 

warehouse storage receipts for raw product (i.e., bin tags), product blend 

(formulation) records, product coding explanations, finished product warehousing 

records, shipping or payment records, or other documentation or evidence that 

clearly establishes the product's domestic origin.

5. An acceptable domestic origin verification traceback must include the following:
Commodity Specification Canned Vegetables

Effective Date: April 2021 Page 2 of 26

• Signed Exhibit 1 Domestic Origin Certification

• Table of Contents 

• Narrative or flow chart explaining the documentation provided

• An explanation of the code. (Code Breakdown)

• Each page should be numbered and referenced in Table of Contents

• All pertinent information should be highlighted on each document

• Documentation must be clear and concise and must relate directly to the code 

being traced

• Trace information submitted must include the physical location of the 

originating field, farm, orchard, or vineyard.

NOTE: Failure to comply with the above requirements, or any submittals consisting 

of mass unorganized “data dumps” will not be reviewed by SCI and final statuses 

will be reported to the Commodity Procurement representative as “Incomplete”. 

6. Such records must be available for review by the Government in accordance with 

FAR 52.214-26. In the event of an audit, AMS auditors will examine as many codes 

as is necessary to verify compliance.

7. Self-certifications by contractors and subcontractors will not be accepted.

8. Failure to observe this requirement may lead to suspension or debarment, purchase 

order termination, and penalties at Title 18, Section 1001 of the U.S. Code 

concerning falsification of information.

Kosher Products

Occasionally, USDA solicits offers to sell Kosher products that comply with applicable dietary

(kosher) laws as established by the “613 Council of Kashruth.” Such products are identified on

the solicitation with the letter “K” incorporated into the WBSCM material descriptions (see 

Exhibit 4 for specific products.) Manufacturing plants shall be certified for compliance with the

aforementioned requirement by contacting the Board of Jewish Education of Greater New York 

(BJENY) at 646-472-5368. At no cost to the vendor, a rabbinic supervisor will be sent to certify

compliance of the manufacturing plant with the dietary (kosher) laws. Vendors must not bid on 

these purchase units unless they can be properly certified. Kosher products purchased solely 

for the “613 Council of Kashruth” do not require a Kosher symbol on the primary or 

secondary container.

Other Kosher products identified in this specification are required to have a commercial Kosher 

certification and must bear one of the Kosher certification symbols illustrated in Exhibit 8.1.

Halal Products

Occasionally, USDA solicits offers to sell Halal products. Such products are identified on 

the solicitation with the letter “H” incorporated into the WBSCM material descriptions 

(see Exhibit 4 for specific products). Products identified in this specification as requiring a 

Halal certification must bear on of the Halal certification symbols illustrated in Exhibit 8.2.
Commodity Specification Canned Vegetables

Effective Date: April 2021 Page 3 of 26

Packing Season

All fresh vegetables to be canned, must be from the current crop year, unless otherwise 

specified in the applicable Solicitation/IFB.

Holding Period

In accordance with the Master Solicitation, all USDA purchase product must be produced, 

packed, stored, and shipped from USDA/SCI approved facilities. These facilities must be 

on record with the Commodity Purchase Program prior to the bid opening. No shipment 

of canned vegetables may be made earlier than 14 days after packing. If requested and 

approved, no delivery shall be case stamped, prior to the completion of the 14-day holding 

period.

Fill of Container

1. Contractor must meet either the drained weight or the fill weight for the product as 

specified in the applicable U.S. Standards unless otherwise indicated herein.

2. The average net weight must meet the net weight as printed on the label and the 

Individual Commodity Specification Section II.

LABELS AND PACKAGING

Primary Containers (Cans and Labels)

1. Vendors have the option to use commercial labeling and packaging which meets all 

applicable FDA requirements and contains a code which allows traceability of the 

product in the event of a recall.

2. The processors’ own commercially acceptable “brand” labels may be used on all 

Solicitations/IFBs. Distributor’s “brand” labels are not acceptable.

3. All products must be packed in new, commercially acceptable primary containers (cans). 

Canned vegetables shall be packed only in the container size and type specified in the 

applicable Solicitation/IFB. The cans must be suitably code marked so that the product 

can be identified with related inspection certificates.

4. For containers 22 ounces or smaller (net weight), labels must also meet the following 

formatting criteria:

a. Must include, at a minimum, two (2) colors, in addition to black and white.

b. Must incorporate a graphic (photo or illustration) depicting the product/contents 

on the principal display panel.
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Secondary Containers (tray and case) for Commercial Labels

1. Commercially acceptable tray packs wrapped in plastic shrink wrap may be used on all 

Solicitations/IFBs for all can sizes. 24/#300 and 24/#1 cases may be achieved by shrink 

wrapping together two 12/#300 or 12/#1 tray packs.

2. Case flaps, gaps, and other openings may not exceed 1 inch and must be fully glued or 

sealed with tape. If tape is used in lieu of glue, it must be clear and of commercially 

acceptable width and strength. The tape must extend at least two inches down the sides 

or ends. 

3. Alternate packaging for the secondary container - tray(s) or case.

a. Cases may have end panel openings that exceeds 1 inch if the openings are 

completely stretch- wrapped. The stretch-wrap may also have reasonably sized 

openings to allow for cooling.

b. This alternate packaging requirement must be able to withstand normal handling, 

shipping, and storage and be acceptable to the common carrier

4. Mixing and matching of commercial and non-commercial labeling methods will not 

be acceptable.

5. Two or more different commercial labels will not be acceptable within a shipping 

unit (truckload).

Secondary Containers (case) for Non-Commercial Labels

Cans with non-commercial labels shall be further enclosed within new, corrugated fiberboard 

cartons (cases) acceptable by common or other carriers for safe transportation to destinations.

Flaps, gaps, and other openings may not exceed 1 inch and must be fully glued or sealed with 

tape. If tape is used in lieu of glue, it must be clear and of commercially acceptable width and 

strength. The tape must extend at least two inches down the sides or ends.

Cases must be marked in such a manner that they contain all of the required symbols, statements 

and information contained in Exhibits 1, 2 or 3 as applicable.

Cases may be marked by printing or stenciling or by preprinted, self-adhesive stickers. Selfadhesive stickers must be affixed to the case in such a manner that they cannot be removed 

intact.

Exact arrangement and adherence to font size is not required. The case markings must be clearly 

marked, easily read, and substantially the same as specified in Exhibits 1, 2 or 3 as applicable.

Exhibit 3 shows an alternative placard that may be applied to a non-commercial, new, corrugated 

fiberboard case acceptable by common or other carriers for safe transportation to destinations. 

This placard must be affixed to the case in such a manner that it cannot be removed intact.
Commodity Specification Canned Vegetables

Effective Date: April 2021 Page 5 of 26

Cases must have the recycling statement shown in Exhibit 5, “Please Recycle” Symbol and 

Statement or Exhibit 6, “Corrugated Recycles” Symbol and Statement.

UNIVERSAL PRODUCT CODES (UPC)

Contractor UPCs are acceptable for primary containers with commercial labels and/or secondary 

fiberboard cases enclosing commercially labeled product.

UPCs are not required for commercial labeling with tray pack shipping containers.

Products with alternative, non-commercial labels must use the UPCs listed in Exhibit 4 on the 

primary and secondary containers.

PALLETIZATION REQUIREMENTS

Pallets

Products must be on 48 X 40 inch, non-reversible, flush stringer, and partial four- way entry. 

New pallets must be good quality wood. Used pallets must be No.1 hardwood or its equivalent 

in new softwood. Broken or damaged pallets are unacceptable; however, broken, or 

damaged pallets may be repaired with No.1 hardwood or its equivalent in new softwood.

If pallet exchange is desired, the contractor shall arrange for pallet exchange with consignees. 

USDA is in no way responsible for arrangement of pallet exchange.

Unitization

Each delivery unit of canned vegetables must be unitized. Shipping cases must be stacked and 

secured from top to bottom, so that each container and layer of containers becomes an integral 

part of the pallet. Either stretch wrapping with plastic film or “lock ‘n pop” is acceptable. The 

palletized product must be loaded in the conveyance in such a way that will prevent shifting and 

damage to the containers of product.

Allergens

All canned vegetable products (excluding – Soups) will be processed and packaged 

using equipment that:

1. Has had no direct contact with a major allergen or,

2. If the equipment used has had direct contact with a major allergen, it has been 

sanitized using an approved industry standard allergenic sanitation/clean and restart and is free of allergens prior to a USDA canned vegetables production run. 

The vendor will use standard industry testing and results to verify that the allergen 

is “free” from equipment. The vendor should retain results, as SCI may request a 

copy for review/compliance.
Commodity Specification Canned Vegetables

Effective Date: April 2021 Page 6 of 26 

3. This requirement does not include any packaging or labeling equipment used after the 

can has been hermetically sealed.

4. Product labels may not include allergen advisory statements.

INDIVIDUAL COMMODITY SPECIFICATIONS

For 24/#300 size cans, the lid may either be a standard sanitary lid or a pop-top lid. 

Standard lids and pop-top lids cannot be comingled within a truckload.

Sodium Content Testing

All individual commodities in this specification must meet the following sodium testing 

requirements.

For new vendors or vendors who have not been awarded a contract in the last 12 months:

1. SCI will select one lot per purchase order or IDIQ contract, per specific product, 

per location for sodium testing and verification. The lot selected for testing will be at 

SCI’s discretion. SCI will submit one composite sample to the USDA, AMS National 

Science Laboratory (NSL) for testing (using AOAC 966.16, Atomic Absorption 

method). NSL will perform this testing to ensure that the product is in compliance 

with the sodium requirements. 

2. If the NSL sodium testing results are acceptable, then the facility will be deemed as 

compliant and for all subsequent lots produced, the sodium testing and acceptance 

will be based on the vendors results, and evidenced by their self or third-party 

testing results showing acceptability. 

3. The vendor will provide their self or third-party sodium testing results to the SCI 

Inspector for each lot produced.

4. SCI may reinstate regular or modified NSL composite sampling and testing of

vendors lots if lots fail to meet the sodium criteria.

For a currently producing vendor and vendors who have been awarded a contract in the 

last 12 months, and with no previous sodium failures: 

1. NSL testing is not required.

2. The vendor will be fully responsible for self or third-party testing and will provide 

their sodium testing results to the SCI Inspector for each lot produced. 

3. SCI may reinstate regular or modified NSL composite sampling and testing of 

vendors lots if any lots fail to meet the sodium criteria.

Asparagus 
Commodity Specification Canned Vegetables

Effective Date: April 2021 Page 7 of 26 

Container size: 24/300 size can, & 12/15-ounce tall cans

1. Grade – U.S. Grade A.

2. Style and Sizes – (diameter of asparagus, cut spears, tips, and points large size 

classification) shall be 8/16 inch to 10/16 inch; Whole sizes (diameter of asparagus, 

spears, and point’s large size classification) shall be 6/16 to 12/16 inch. 

3. Length of Cut – 1 1⁄2 inches, +/- 1⁄4 inch. Whole Length – minimum 33⁄4 inches. 

4. Sodium content – 36 mg – 140 mg per serving (defined as 1⁄2 cup). 

5. Whole Spears – 15 oz. tall cans 

6. Drained weight – No individual sample shall be less than 7.11 ounces. 

Beans, Green 

All Canned Green Beans packed in 6/#10 cans (100307), must be produced and packed in a 

Kosher certified facility and must carry one of the Kosher symbols in Exhibit 8.1. 

Container size: 6/10 size can & 24/300 size can

1. Grade – U.S. Grade B or better.

2. Color – Green.

3. Type – Round. 

4. Styles – For Material Code 100306 and 100307, product will be only Style a. regular cut, 

unless specified differently in the Solicitation/IFB.

a. Regular Cut - provided that the cut style units are one inch in length or longer. 

b. Sliced lengthwise, or French style.

c. Whole.

5. Sizes – A single size or blend of sizes not exceeding size 5.

6. Fill of container – the sample average net weight shall be not less than 14.5 for retail size.

7. Cut – There shall not be no more than 25 percent, by count of green bean units less than 

3⁄4 inch in length to comply with the “cut” style one inch or longer provision. Only one 

piece of extraneous vegetable material per 12 ounces of drained weight is allowable per 

sample unit.
Commodity Specification Canned Vegetables

Effective Date: April 2021 Page 8 of 26 

8. Sodium content – 36 mg – 140 mg per serving (defined as 1⁄2 cup).

Carrots 

Container size: 6/10 size can & 24/300 size can

1. Grade – U.S. Grade A.

2. Style – Sliced (Straight or Crinkle Cut).

3. Size – The slices (Straight or Crinkle Cut) shall be less than 13⁄4 inchesin diameter.

4. Sodium content – 36 mg – 140 mg per serving (defined as 1⁄2 cup).

Corn, Whole Kernel 

Canned Corn packed in 6/#10 cans (100313), must be produced and packed in a Kosher 

certified facility and must contain one of the Kosher Symbols in Exhibit 8.1. 

 

Canned Corn packed in 6/#10 cans (111059 Kosher - (“613 Council of Kashruth”) must be 

produced and packed in a Kosher certified facility but do not require a Kosher Symbol. See 

Kosher Product section above on page 2 for further information. 

Container size: 6/10 size can & 24/300 size can

1. Grade – U.S. Grade B.

2. Color – White or Golden (yellow).

3. Types of Pack – Liquid packing medium (regular pack) 24/300 & 6/10. 

4. Tenderness and Maturity – shall be U.S. Grade B Top. 

5. No added sodium. 

Corn, Cream Style 

Container size: 24/300 size can

1. Grade – U.S. Grade B.

2. Color – Golden or Yellow. 

3. Net Weight – The cream style corn shall occupy not less than 90 percent of the water 

capacity of the container. 

4. Tenderness and Maturity scores shall not be less than 25 points.
Commodity Specification Canned Vegetables

Effective Date: April 2021 Page 9 of 26 

5. Defects score shall not be less than 17 points. 

6. Sodium content – 36 mg – 140 mg per serving (defined as 1⁄2 cup). 

Mixed Vegetables 

Container size: 24/300 size can

The canned mixed vegetables shall comply with CID A-A-20120 - Effective on the date of the 

Solicitation/IFB (published separately), the average drained weight shall not be less than 9.1 

ounces. 

1. Type I – 7-way mix

2. With the following exceptions to the vegetable proportions stated in the CID. 

Type of Vegetable Target Percent by Weight and 

Tolerance.

Additional 

Requirements

Carrots (Diced) 

35% (+/-) 5% total for each 

vegetable

Maximum of 70% 

combined total for 

these two vegetable 

sub-types.

Potatoes (Diced)

Lima beans, thin seeded 

Minimum 30% combined total for 

all five vegetable sub-types.

Minimum 2% for each individual 

vegetable sub-type

No maximum % for 

combined vegetable 

sub-types.

Peas, sweet 

Beans, green (Short, cut, or 

mixed) 

Corn, yellow (Whole kernel) 

Celery (Cut, 1⁄2 inch 

maximum in length) 

Total percentages of potatoes, carrots, and the five other vegetable sub-types must equal 

100%.

3. Style E – Sodium content – 36 mg – 140 mg per serving (defined as 1⁄2 cup).

Peas 

Container size: 6/10 size can & 24/300 size can

1. Grade – U.S. Grade B or better.

2. Types – Sweet, early.

3. Sizes – Mixed, combination, or unsized. 

4. Sodium content – 36 mg – 140 mg per serving (defined as 1⁄2 cup). 
Commodity Specification Canned Vegetables

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Potatoes 

Container size: 24/300 size

1. Grade – U.S. Grade A.

2. Style – Whole, sliced, or diced potatoes. 

3. Size – Small.

4. Sodium content – 36 mg – 140 mg per serving (defined as 1⁄2 cup). 

Pumpkin 

Container size: 24/300 size can

1. Grade – U.S. Grade A.

2. No added sodium. 

Salsa 

Container size: 6/10 size can or 6/10 equivalent (6/106 ounce pouch) 

CID No. A-A-20210 – Effective on the date of the Solicitation/IFB (published separately)

1. Type 1 – Tomato-based.

2. Pungency C – Medium. 

3. Style 1 – Regular. 

4. Sodium Level 2 – Low Sodium. 

5. Color – The color of the finished product shall be equal to or better than USDA 

Color Standards for Tomato Products A1 or A2.

6. Ingredients – The salsa shall include peeled tomatoes, tomato puree, fresh or dried 

onions, green peppers (ex: chili, or green bell), garlic, and jalapeños properly 

ripened and wholesome. The salsa may also have: onion powder, garlic powder, 

tomato powder, sugar, corn syrup, chili puree, jalapeño puree, pepper, cilantro, red 

pepper powder, cumin, oregano, coriander, vinegar, or citric acid added to adjust 

pH between 3.8 - 4.3, xanthan gum, modified starch, or natural flavors. Modified 

starch or thickeners shall not exceed 1 percent of the product formulation. 

7. Sodium content – 36 mg – 140 mg per serving (defined as 1⁄2 cup). 
Commodity Specification Canned Vegetables

Effective Date: April 2021 Page 11 of 26

8. Appearance – 

a. The salsa must have the appearance of a uniform diced texture with the 

dices being approximately: 

i. Tomatoes - no less than 3/8 inch and no more than 3/4 inch 

ii. Onions - no less than 1⁄4 inch and no more than 3/4 inch. 

b. The product will have no excess liquid medium or weeping. 

c. The consistency will meet a range of 3.0 to 5.5 as determined using a Bostwick 

Consistometer and timed for 30 seconds with no chunks blocking the gates.

d. The spices and condiments added will be evenly comminuted and free from

lumps. 

e. The tomatoes, onions, and peppers will be uniformly firm and tender and 

practically free of soft or spongy units. 

9. Soluble Solids – The soluble solids of the finished product medium shall be a 

minimum of 8 percent.

10. Drained weight and washed drained weight – See Washed drained weight part 5.5.3.2. 

in CID A-A-20210. 

11. Net weight – The salsa shall occupy not less than 90 percent of the volume capacity of 

the container and the average net weight of all samples in a lot shall be not less than 106 

ounces. No individual container shall weigh less than 104 ounces.

Soups 

For the Soups specifications, please see the Commodity Specifications for Canned Soups March

2020 or most recent version

Spaghetti Sauce, Meatless 

Container size: 6/10 size can or 6/10-equivalent (6/106 ounce pouch), 24/300 size can 

CID No. A-A-20133 – Effective on the date of the Solicitation/IFB (published separately.) 

Type I – Meatless, Consistency 1 – Smooth, Flavor a – Traditional.

Additional requirements to the CID:

Must meet the appearance and flavor profile requirements shown below.

1. Appearance – When 100 grams of the sauce is spread evenly into a thin layer, on a 

shallow white grading tray, there will be visible bits and specks of the spices.
Commodity Specification Canned Vegetables

Effective Date: April 2021 Page 12 of 26

2. Flavor profile – The traditional style will include the flavor sensations of basil, garlic, 

onion, and other spices formulated in a manner that results in a balanced traditional 

tasting spaghetti sauce.

3. Color – The color of the finished product shall be equal to or better than USDA Color 

Standards for Tomato Products A1 or A2.

4. Ingredients – The spaghetti sauce must include tomato products, and basil, garlic, onion. 

The spaghetti sauce may include water, oil (olive, soybean cottonseed, corn, canola, or a 

combination of oils), sugar, corn syrup, onion powder, garlic powder, other spice 

extracts, citric acid, natural flavoring, other safe and suitable ingredients, and modified 

starch or thickeners. If included, modified starch or thickeners must not exceed 1 percent 

of the product formulation and must be gluten free.

5. Sodium content – 36 mg - 140 mg per serving (defined as 1⁄2 cup). 

6. Soluble Solids – The soluble solids of the finished product shall be a minimum of 8 

percent.

7. Net weight – The spaghetti sauce (meatless) shall occupy not less than 90 percent of the 

volume capacity of the container and the average net weight of all samples in a lot shall 

be not less than 106 ounces. No individual container shall weigh less than 104 ounces. 

Spinach 

Container size: 24/300 size can

1. Grade – U.S. Grade A.

2. Style – Whole leaf, cut leaf, sliced, or chopped styles.

3. Fill of Container – Must meets requirements shown in General section. 

3. Sodium content – 36 mg – 140 mg per serving (defined as 1⁄2 cup). 

Sweet Potatoes 

Container size: 6/10 size can & 24/300 size can

1. Grade - U.S. Grade A.

2. Color Type – Golden, Yellow, Mixed.

3. Type of Pack – 

a. Regular – Liquid packing medium is added. 
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Effective Date: April 2021 Page 13 of 26

b. Solid pack sweet potatoes of the “mashed” style only, no packing medium may be 

added (6/10 size).

4. Style – 

a. 6/10 size – Whole, Halved, Pieces/cuts (as applicable).

b. 24/300 size – Whole or pieces/cuts style.

5. Liquid packing medium – Light Sucrose or other FDA approved syrups. Brix 

measurements must be 18 degrees or more, but less than 25 degrees.

6. The styles for canned sweet potato may be whole, halved, pieces/cuts, or any 

combination thereof, if 90 percent (by count) of each of the sweet potato units weigh no 

more than three ounces. No sweet potato unit may weigh more than four ounces.

Tomatoes 

Container size: 6/10 size can or (only diced) 6/10-equivalent (6/102 ounce pouch) & 24/300 can 

1. Whole – U.S. Grade B or better.

2. Diced – U.S. Grade B or better. Diced tomatoes shall meet all of the foregoing 

requirements except that the factor of “wholeness” is disregarded and in lieu thereof, the 

tomatoes shall be cut into recognizable units of approximately 3⁄4 inch by 3⁄4 inch 

dimensions and the factor of color is determined on the entire exposed areas. 

3. No added sodium. 

Concentrated Crushed Tomatoes 

Container size: 6/10 size can

Canned concentrated crushed tomatoes delivered shall be processed only from fresh whole 

tomatoes passed through a screen no larger than 1⁄4 inch in size. Canned concentrated crushed 

tomatoes reprocessed from tomato concentrates (tomato puree or tomato paste) are not 

acceptable. The finished product shall meet the following requirements: 

1. Flavor and Odor – Good flavor and odor. Based on the description for good flavor and 

odor as defined for Grade A, Tomato Puree in the U.S. Standards for Grades of Canned 

Tomato Puree.

2. Color – Shall be equivalent to U.S. Grade A, based on the U.S. Standards for Grades as 

defined for Grade A, Canned Tomato Puree. Color shall be determined on the exposed 

surface area of the undiluted product. 
Commodity Specification Canned Vegetables

Effective Date: April 2021 Page 14 of 26

3. Defects – Shall be fairly free of defects, excluding the presence of peel and seeds. A 

maximum of 36 green, brown, dark brown or black specks in any combination are 

allowed. No dark or black particles shall exceed 1⁄4 inch in length. 

4. Tomato Soluble Solids (TSS) – Shall average not less than 12.0 percent TSS. No 

individual sample shall have a TSS content of less than 11.2 percent.

5. Finish – The undefined finished product made from fresh whole tomatoes shall be the 

appearance of a coarse finish with peel and seeds included. Products from concentrates 

are not allowed except to standardize the TSS.

6. No added sodium. 

7. Net weight – Average net weight not less than 106.0 ounces. No individual container 

shall have a net weight less than 104.5 ounces. 

Tomato Paste 

Container size: 6/10 size can or 6/10-equivalent (6/111 ounce pouch) 

1. Grade – U.S. Grade A 

2. Type of Pack – The tomato paste in 6/10 size shall be of extra heavy, heavy, medium, or 

light concentration, fine or coarse texture.

3. Net weight –

a. 6/10 size – The tomato paste shall occupy not less than 90 percent of the volume 

capacity of the container and the average net weight of a lot shall be not less than 

111.0 ounces of tomato paste per can. No individual container shall weigh less 

than 109.5 ounces. 

4. No added sodium. 

Tomato Paste in Bulk for Processing, Totes/Bins

This individual specification will soon be moved to Commodity Specification for Bulk Products 

for Further Processing.

Checkloading for this product is optional 

1. Grade – U.S. Grade A. 

2. Type of Pack – Totes/Bins. 

3. Net Weight – The totes/bins shall be filled to a net weight of 2,850 pounds, plus or minus 

2%. Maximum shipping unit (truckload) net weight shall equal 39,900 pounds, within a 
Commodity Specification Canned Vegetables

Effective Date: April 2021 Page 15 of 26

tolerance of minus one percent (1%). Vendors will not be credited for shipments

weighing over 39,900 pounds. Shipping weights of over 39,900 will be considered as 

“donated” product. 

4. No added sodium. 

5. Each lot of tomato paste in totes/bins shall average 31 percent natural total soluble solids 

(TSS) plus or minus 1% TSS. 

a. Exception for Destinations Fremont, OH or Los Banos, CA 

Each lot of tomato paste in totes/bins shall not be lower than 26 percent natural 

total soluble solids (TSS).

6. Finish – Screen size shall be .045 or .060. 

Tomato Sauce 

Container size: 6/10 size can or 6/10-equivlent (6/106 ounce pouch) & 24/300 size can 

Canned tomato sauce for material code 110610: labeling must contain at least one of the Halal

symbols shown in Exhibit 8.2. 

1. Grade – U.S. Grade A.

2. Net Weight 

a. 6/10 size –The tomato sauce shall occupy not less than 90 percent of the volume 

capacity of the container and the average net weight of any lot shall be not less 

than 106 ounces of tomato sauce per can. No individual container shall weigh less 

than 104.6 ounces.

b. 24/300 size – The tomato sauce shall occupy not less than 90 percent of the 

volume capacity of the container and the average net weight of any lot shall be 

not less than 15.0 ounces of tomato sauce per can. No individual container shall 

weigh less than 14.7 ounces.

3. Seasoning – May be more than lightly seasoned by added salt and spices and to which 

may be added one or more nutritional sweetening ingredients, vinegar, onions, garlic, or 

other vegetable flavoring ingredient. 

4. Sodium content – 36 mg - 140 mg per serving (defined as 1⁄2 cup). 

Hominy 

Container size: 24/300 size can

1. Grade – U.S. Grade A.
Commodity Specification Canned Vegetables

Effective Date: April 2021 Page 16 of 26

2. Color – White or Golden (yellow), as specified on the applicable Solicitation.

3. Style – I, Whole. 

4. Sodium content – 36 mg to 140 mg per serving (defined as 1⁄2 cup). 

INSPECTION, CERTIFICATION, AND CHECKLOADING

Requirements

Representatives of the AMS, Specialty Crop Program, Specialty Crops Inspection (SCI) Division 

(USDA Inspector) must perform the inspection (see the Master Solicitation). The cost of 

inspection, samples taken for inspection, mailing of review samples submitted for 

evaluation, and any chemical analysis required for testing shall be for the account of the 

Contractor. 

Inspection of canned products must be performed not more than 12 months prior to shipment. 

Whether each lot offered meets the product and container requirements of the purchase order 

must be determined on the basis of representative sample units.

Representative sample units will be graded according to the Regulations Governing Inspection 

and Certification of Canned Fruits and Vegetables and Related Products (7 C.F.R. Part 52), and 

United States Standards for Condition of Food Containers (7 C.F.R. Part 42.140), effective on 

the date of the Solicitation/IFB.

Case stamping in lieu of checkloading is acceptable, at the USDA Inspector’s discretion and may 

be performed at any time up to 28 calendar days prior to shipment of the product. 

Contractors must be aware that if this option is exercised, and an AMS Inspector does not 

perform checkloading, the Contractor assumes all risk for these shipments and deliveries.

Certification

Subject to (See the Master Solicitation) the acceptability of the quality, weight, packaging, and 

checkloading of the product must be evidenced by Certificates of Quality and Condition,

issued by the USDA Inspector. 

No product shall be shipped unless the USDA Inspector informs the Contractor that a designated 

lot is acceptable. Notice by the USDA Inspector that a designated lot scheduled for shipment 

does not meet requirements of the purchase order shall constitute rejection of such lot.
Commodity Specification Canned Vegetables

Effective Date: April 2021 Page 17 of 26

Checkloading

As a result of the Mandatory Checkloading Phase Out Program, the requirements for 

checkloading Canned Vegetables, by USDA inspectors, will be eliminated for contracts 

announced on or after April 1, 2021. Note: Checkloading may still be performed on all, or part 

of the deliveries at the request and expense of the contractor. Also, SCI may conduct periodic 

verifications of the vendors’ commercial practices to ensure they meet the contractual 

requirements. 

Procedures

The Contractor must give the USDA Inspector at least 7 days advance notice when scheduling 

inspection service. Prior to sampling, the Contractor must furnish the USDA Inspector with a list 

of codes and the approximate number of cases per code.

Contractors are encouraged to submit requests for inspection in writing with verifiable receipt 

notice, such as email, to alleviate possible miscommunication.

Laboratory Tests

The Contractor must allow 14 days after product sampling for laboratory tests (when required) to 

be completed and returned.

FAILURE TO MEET SPECIFICATIONS

Any lot which fails applicable specifications prescribed herein will be rejected as not acceptable 

for delivery. If any lot of canned vegetables fails to meet the product or packaging requirement, 

the Contractor may request in writing that USDA accept delivery of the lot. USDA may, at its 

option, accept delivery, provided that the purchase price is the purchase order price less a 

discount, to be determined by the Contracting Officer.
Commodity Specification Canned Vegetables

Effective Date: April 2021 Page 18 of 26

Reference Links 

 

The product must comply with the below references/requirements that are effective on the 

date of the Solicitation/IFB announcement (published separately.) 

AMS Master Solicitation: 

https://www.ams.usda.gov/sites/default/files/media/MSCP.pdf

U.S. Grades and Standards:

https://www.ams.usda.gov/grades-standards

Commercial Item Descriptions:

https://www.ams.usda.gov/grades-standards/cids

National Science Laboratory:

https://www.ams.usda.gov/services/lab-testing/nsl

FDA Food Labeling Guide

https://www.fda.gov/media/81606/download
Commodity Specification Canned Vegetables

Effective Date: April 2021 Page 19 of 26

EXHIBITS

Exhibit 1 - Required Markings for Non-Commercial Shipping Containers

ALL PRINTING TO BE IN BLACK INK

 BOTH SIDE PANELS BOTH END PANELS

 PRODUCT NAME PRODUCT NAME

1/ PURCHASE ORDER NO. 3/

2/ 

4/ 

 

USDA SYMBOL - Optional 

STORE IN COOL, DRY PLACE

5/ 

Product name must be printed or stenciled on a separate line in letters at least three-fourths inch 

high, and all other information must be in letters less than three-fourths inch but at least threeeighths inch high. The USDA Food Symbol must be printed, stamped, or labeled and be of 

sufficient size to stand out prominently. Case markings must be limited to case codes and those 

contained in this Exhibit.

1/ Insert any additional product style, pack, packing media, or further definition as

applicable; (i.e. Crushed, Cut, Chopped, etc.).

2/ Insert the size and number of packages per case, i.e. 6 /No. 10 cans, 6/5 pound bags, 

12/46 ounce cans, 1/25 pound bag. 

3/ Insert the last five digits of the purchase order number. 

4/ Insert name of Packer and Packer's Address - City, State, and Zip Code. This

information can be placed on the end panels or the side panels.

5/ Insert Universal Product Code (see Exhibit “4”). 
Commodity Specification Canned Vegetables

Effective Date: April 2021 Page 20 of 26

Exhibit 2 - Alternative Label for Shipping Containers

(Includes all Required Information)

Product Name

Style

Packing Media Size/Number per case

Purchase Order Number xxxxx

Packed by: ABC Growers

Any Town, CA 99999

(USDA Symbol is optional)

STORE IN A COOL DRY PLACE

1234567891012345678910
Commodity Specification Canned Vegetables

Effective Date: April 2021 Page 21 of 26

Exhibit 3 - Sample Alternative Label for Shipping Containers

Canned Peas

6/No. 10 cans

Purchase Order Number xxxxx

Packed by: ABC Growers

Any Town, CA 99999

(USDA Symbol is optional)

STORE IN A COOL DRY PLACE

 1 11 07 15001 01434 1 
Commodity Specification Canned Vegetables

Effective Date: April 2021 Page 22 of 26

Exhibit 4 - Universal Product Codes

24/300 cans Materials Primary Container Secondary Container

Asparagus 100305 7 15001 003058 1 07 15001 00305 5

Carrots 100308 7 15001 003089 1 07 15001 00308 6

Cream Style Corn 100310 7 15001 003102 1 07 15001 00310 9

Green Beans (Regular cut style only) 100306 7 15001 003065 1 07 15001 00306 2

Mixed Vegetables 100320 7 15001 003232 1 07 15001 00320 8

Peas 100314 7 15001 003140 1 07 15001 00314 7

Potatoes (sliced) 100331 7 15001 003317 1 07 15001 00331 4

Potatoes (diced) 111340 7 15001 11340 5 1 07 15001 11340 2

Pumpkin 100319 7 15001 003195 1 07 15001 00319 2

Spaghetti Sauce 100335 7 15001 003355 1 07 15001 00335 2

Spinach 100323 7 15001 003232 1 07 15001 00323 9

Sweet Potatoes 100316 7 15001 003164 1 07 15001 00316 1

Tomato Sauce 100333 7 15001 003331 1 07 15001 00333 8

Tomato Sauce (Kosher, Halal) 110610 7 15001 106100 1 0 7 15001 10610 7

Tomatoes 100324 7 15001 003249 1 07 15001 00324 6

Tomatoes, Diced 100328 7 15001 003287 1 07 15001 00328 4

Whole Kernel Corn 100311 7 15001 003119 1 07 15001 00311 6

6/10 cans

Carrots

100309

7 15001 103093 1 07 15001 10309 0

Carrots, Kosher 110360 7 15001 103606 1 07 15001 10360 9

Green Beans (Regular cut style only) 100307 7 15001 103079 1 07 15001 10307 6

Peas 100315 7 15001 103154 1 07 15001 10315 1

Peas Kosher 110060 7 15001 100603 1 07 15001 10060 0

Salsa 100330 7 15001 103307 1 07 15001 10330 4

Spaghetti Sauce 100336 7 15001 103369 1 07 15001 10336 6

Sweet Potatoes (syrup) 100317 7 15001 103178 1 07 15001 10317 5

Tomatoes (diced) 100329 7 15001 103291 1 07 15001 10329 8

Tomatoes (paste) 100327 7 15001 103277 1 07 15001 10327 4

Tomatoes (paste), Kosher 110102 7 15001 101020 1 07 15001 10102 7

Tomatoes (sauce) 100334 7 15001 003348 1 07 15001 00334 5

Tomatoes (sauce) Kosher 110101 7 15001 101013 1 07 15001 10101 0

Tomatoes (whole) 100325 7 15001 003256 1 07 15001 00325 3

Whole Kernel Corn (liquid) 100313 7 15001 003133 1 07 15001 00313 0

Whole Kernel Corn (liquid), Kosher 110059 7 15001 100597 1 07 15001 10059 4

6/10-equivalent pouches

Spaghetti Sauce Meatless Pouch-6/106 oz. 110177 7 15001 101778 1 07 15001 10177 5

Tomato Diced Pouch-6/102 oz. 110185 7 15001 101857 1 07 15001 10185 0

Tomato Paste Pouch-6/111 oz. 110189 7 15001 101891 1 07 15001 10189 8

Tomato Salsa Pouch-6/106 oz. 110186 7 15001 101860 1 07 15001 10186 7

Tomato Sauce Pouch-6/106 oz. 110187 7 15001 101877 1 07 15001 10187 4
Commodity Specification Canned Vegetables

Effective Date: April 2021 Page 23 of 26

Exhibit 5 - “Please Recycle” Symbol and Statement 

PLEASE RECYCLE
Commodity Specification Canned Vegetables

Effective Date: April 2021 Page 24 of 26

Exhibit 6 - “Corrugated Recycles” Symbol and Statement
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Effective Date: April 2021 Page 25 of 26

Exhibit 7 - USDA Symbol

(USDA Symbol is optional) 

 

 
Commodity Specification Canned Vegetables

Effective Date: April 2021 Page 26 of 26

Exhibit 8.1 - Symbols for Kosher Products

http://oukosher.org/ http://www.star-k.org/ 

http://www.ok.org/

http://www.kof-k.org/ http://www.crcweb.org/

 

 

https://trianglek.org/

Exhibit 8.2 - Symbols for Halal Products