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Division

Commodity Specification 

for Canned Vegetables

May 2017
SCI Division Commodity Specifications Canned Vegetables

Effective Date: May 2017 Page 2 of 37

 

 Table of Contents

Section Page No.

I. General .................................................................................................................................... 5

A. U.S. Standards................................................................................................................ 5

B. Exceptions to the U.S. Standards and/or or Commercial Item Description................... 5

C. Product Origin ................................................................................................................ 5

D. Halal and Kosher Products..............................................................................................6

E. Packing Season............................................................................................................... 6

F. Holding Period ............................................................................................................... 6

G. Fill of Container ............................................................................................................. 7

H. Packing, Labels and Packaging...................................................................................... 7

I. Universal Product Codes (UPC)..................................................................................... 9

J. Palletization Requirements............................................................................................. 9

K. Shipment and Delivery....................................................................................................9

L. Allergens .........................................................................................................................9

II. Individual Commodity Specifications................................................................................ 10

A. Asparagus – .................................................................................................................. 10

B. Beans, Green – ............................................................................................................. 10

C. Carrots – ....................................................................................................................... 11

D. Corn, Whole Kernel – .................................................................................................. 11

E. Corn, Cream Style – ..................................................................................................... 11

F. Mixed Vegetables –...................................................................................................... 12

G. Peas –............................................................................................................................ 12

H. Potatoes – ..................................................................................................................... 12

I. Pumpkin –..................................................................................................................... 13

J. Salsa –........................................................................................................................... 13

K. Soups – ......................................................................................................................... 14

L. Spaghetti Sauce, Meatless – ......................................................................................... 15

M. Spinach – ...................................................................................................................... 15

N. Sweet Potatoes –........................................................................................................... 16

O. Tomatoes – ................................................................................................................... 16

P. Concentrated Crushed Tomatoes –............................................................................... 17

Q. Tomato Paste – ............................................................................................................. 17

R. Tomato Sauce – ............................................................................................................ 18

III. Inspection and Checkloading.............................................................................................. 19

IV. Failure to Meet Specifications............................................................................................. 20

V. Exhibits.................................................................................................................................. 20

Exhibit 1-1............................................................................................................................. 20
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Can Label for Canned Asparagus, No. 300 size.................................................................... 20

Exhibit 1-2............................................................................................................................. 21

Can Label for Canned Green Beans, No. 10 size.................................................................. 21

Choose My Plate-graphic-resources...................................................................................... 21

Exhibit 1-3............................................................................................................................. 21

Can Label for Canned Green Beans, No. 300 size................................................................ 21

Exhibit 1-4............................................................................................................................. 21

Can Label for Canned Carrots, No. 10 size........................................................................... 21

Exhibit 1-5............................................................................................................................. 22

Can Label for Canned Carrots, No. 300 size......................................................................... 22

Exhibit 1-6............................................................................................................................. 23

Can Label for Canned Whole Kernel Corn, No. 10 size....................................................... 23

Choose My Plate-graphic-resources...................................................................................... 23

Exhibit 1-7............................................................................................................................. 23

Can Label for Canned Whole Kernel Corn, No. 300 size..................................................... 23

Exhibit 1-8............................................................................................................................. 24

Can Label for Canned Cream Style Corn, No. 300 size........................................................ 24

Exhibit 1-9............................................................................................................................. 24

Can Label for Canned Mixed Vegetables, No. 300 size ....................................................... 24

Exhibit 1-10........................................................................................................................... 25

Can Label for Canned Peas, No. 10 size ............................................................................... 25

Exhibit 1-11........................................................................................................................... 25

Can Label for Canned Peas, No. 300 size ............................................................................. 25

Exhibit 1-12........................................................................................................................... 26

Can Label for Canned Potatoes, No. 300 size....................................................................... 26

Exhibit 1-13........................................................................................................................... 26

Can Label for Canned Pumpkin, No. 300 size ...................................................................... 26

Exhibit 1-14........................................................................................................................... 27

Can Label for Canned Salsa, No. 10 size .............................................................................. 27

Exhibit 1-15........................................................................................................................... 27

Can Label for Canned Vegetable Soup, No. 1 size ............................................................... 27

Exhibit 1-16........................................................................................................................... 28

Can Label for Canned Tomato Soup, No. 1 size................................................................... 28

Exhibit 1-17........................................................................................................................... 28

Can Label for Canned Spaghetti Sauce, No. 10 size............................................................. 28

Exhibit 1-18........................................................................................................................... 29

Can Label for Canned Spaghetti Sauce, No. 300 size........................................................... 29

Choose My Plate-graphic-resources...................................................................................... 29

Exhibit 1-19........................................................................................................................... 29

Can Label for Canned Spinach, No. 300 size........................................................................ 29

Exhibit 1-20........................................................................................................................... 30

Can Label for Canned Sweet Potatoes, No. 10 size .............................................................. 30

Exhibit 1-21........................................................................................................................... 31

Can Label for Canned Sweet Potatoes, Syrup No. 10 size.................................................... 31
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Exhibit 1-22........................................................................................................................... 31

Can Label for Canned Sweet Potatoes, No. 300 size ............................................................ 31

Exhibit 1-23........................................................................................................................... 32

Can Label for Canned Tomatoes, No. 10 size....................................................................... 32

Exhibit 1-24........................................................................................................................... 32

Can Label for Canned Tomatoes, No. 300 size..................................................................... 32

Exhibit 1-25........................................................................................................................... 33

Can Label for Canned Tomato Paste, No. 10 size................................................................. 33

Exhibit 1-26........................................................................................................................... 33

Can Label for Canned Tomato Sauce, No. 10 size ............................................................... 33

Exhibit 1-27........................................................................................................................... 34

Can Label for Canned Tomato Sauce, No. 300 size ............................................................. 34

Exhibit 2 ................................................................................................................................ 35

Alternative Label for Shipping Containers ........................................................................... 36

Exhibit 4 ................................................................................................................................ 37

Sample Alternative Label for Shipping Containers .............................................................. 37

Exhibit 5 ................................................................................................................................ 38

Universal Product Codes....................................................................................................... 38

Exhibit 6 ................................................................................................................................ 40

“Please Recycle” Symbol and Statement .............................................................................. 40

Exhibit 7 ................................................................................................................................ 41

“Corrugated Recycles” Symbol and Statement..................................................................... 41

Exhibit 8 ................................................................................................................................ 42

USDA Symbol....................................................................................................................... 42

Exhibit 9-1............................................................................................................................. 43

Symbols for Kosher Products................................................................................................ 43

Exhibit 9-2............................................................................................................................. 43

Symbols for Halal Products................................................................................................... 43
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I. General

A. 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. 

B. Exceptions to the U.S. Standards and/or or Commercial Item Description

Exceptions to the U.S. Standards for the Department of Agriculture (USDA) 

canned vegetables purchases and/or or Commercial Item Description (CID) are 

found in Section II, Individual Commodity Specifications, of this document. 

Additional exceptions may be specified in the applicable Solicitation/IFB. Any 

exceptions contained in the applicable Solicitation/IFB shall have precedence over 

the requirements contained herein, for that Solicitation/IFB only. 

 

1. Order of Precedence

If the contract documents are inconsistent or contradictory, the following order of 

precedence will prevail: IFB, Master Solicitation, Amendments to the Commodity 

Specifications, and Commodity Specifications and/or Supplement(s). 

C. Product Origin

1. Commodities delivered pursuant to this Commodity Specification shall 

have originated from crops that have been 100 percent 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). See Section I., F. of the Master Solicitation.

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 contractor must maintain positive written documentation records 

evidencing 100 percent domestic origin to the grower level. Contractors must also 

ensure that the documentation provided by any subcontractors demonstrates the 

same level of traceability. The burden of proof of compliance is on the contractor. 
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Documentation may include 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. 

4. Contractors must provide the domestic origin certification and supporting 

documentation records to representatives of the AMS Fruit and Vegetable 

Program, Specialty Crops Inspection (SCI) Division (USDA Inspector) when 

requesting inspection service. USDA Inspectors will select and review at least one 

code for each purchase order or IDIQ contract to determine compliance with the 

Agency's domestic origin requirements. 

5. 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.

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

7. 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.

D. Halal and Kosher Products

Occasionally, USDA solicits offers to sell KOSHER and/or KOSHER HALAL 

products. Such products are identified on the solicitation with the letters “K” “or K 

H” incorporated into WBSCM material descriptions. Vendors must comply with 

the applicable dietary laws in the production of these commodity products. 

Vendors must not bid on these purchase units unless they can be properly certified.

For products offered in 6/#10 cans – vendors receiving purchase order items 

identified as “KOSHER” must contact the Board of Jewish Education of Greater 

New York (BJENY) at telephone 646-472-5365 prior to manufacturing the 

commodity product to arrange for certification of compliance with the applicable 

dietary (kosher) laws. For products in 24/#300 cans – Kosher products must bear 

one of the Kosher certification symbols illustrated in Exhibit 9-1. Kosher Halal 

products must bear one of the Kosher certification symbols illustrated in Exhibits 

9-1 and one of the Halal certification symbols in Exhibit 9-2.

E. Packing Season 

All canned vegetables must be from the current packing season/crop year, unless 

otherwise specified in the applicable Solicitation/IFB. 

F. Holding Period

No shipment of canned vegetables may be made earlier than 14 calendar days after 

packing. No delivery shall be case stamped prior to the completion of the 14 day 

holding period.
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G. 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. 

H. Packing, Labels and Packaging

Commercial Labels and Packaging

1. Primary Containers (Cans/Pouches/Cartons and Labels) 

a. 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 or 

they may use USDA packaging and labeling as specified in the 

Master Solicitation.

b. The processors’ own commercially acceptable “brand” labels may 

be used on all Solicitations/IBFs unless prohibited by the 

Solicitation/IFB. Distributor’s “brand” labels are not acceptable.

c. All products must be packed in new, commercially acceptable 

primary containers (cans/pouches/cartons). Canned vegetables shall 

be packed only in the container size and type specified in the 

applicable Solicitation/IFB. The cans/pouches/cartons must be 

suitably code marked so that the product can be identified with 

related inspection certificates.

d. For 24/#300 pack products, commercial labels must also meet the 

following formatting criteria:

• Must include, at a minimum, two (2) colors, in addition to 

black and/or white. 

• Must incorporate a graphic (photo or illustration) depicting the 

product/contents on the principal display panel. 

2. Secondary Containers (tray and case).

a. Commercially acceptable tray packs wrapped in plastic shrink wrap 

may be used on all Solicitations/IFBs for all can sizes. 24/#300 cases may 

be achieved by shrink wrapping together two 12/#300 tray packs. 

b. 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 
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must be clear and of commercially acceptable width and strength. The tape 

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

c. Mixing and matching of USDA and commercial labeling methods 

will not be acceptable.

d. Two or more different commercial labels will not be acceptable 

within a shipping unit (truckload).

USDA Labels and Packaging

1. Primary Containers (cans/pouches/carton) 

All products must be packed in new, commercially acceptable primary containers 

(cans/pouches/cartons). Canned vegetables shall be packed only in the container 

size and type specified in the applicable Solicitation/IFB. The cans/pouches must 

be suitably code marked so that the product can be identified with related 

inspection certificates. 

2. Can Labels

USDA can labels are shown in Exhibits 1-1 through 1-27. The wording and design 

of the labels is restricted to that shown in the exhibit. The labels must be printed in 

ink of the color specified, on commercially acceptable, white paper stock. All

printing must be scuff resistant by the application of a varnish, lacquer, or 

synthetic coating applied to the label after printing.

3. Secondary Container (case) Markings 

Cans/pouches/cartons 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 symbols, 

statements and information contained in Exhibit 2, “Required Markings for 

Shipping Containers”. 

Cases may be marked by printing or stenciling or by preprinted, self-adhesive 

stickers. Self-adhesive 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 

Exhibit 2.

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

fiberboard case acceptable by common or other carriers for safe transportation to 
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destinations. This placard must be affixed to the case in such a manner that it 

cannot be removed intact.

Cases must have the recycling statement shown in Exhibit 6, “Please Recycle” 

Symbol and Statement or Exhibit 7, “Corrugated Recycles” Symbol and 

Statement.

I. Universal Product Codes (UPC)

Contractor UPC’s are acceptable for primary containers of product shipped 

utilizing commercial labels and/or secondary fiberboard cases enclosing 

commercially labeled product. Primary label and shipping container Universal 

Product Codes for USDA products are listed in Exhibit 5. The Contractor’s UPC 

is not acceptable. The primary container UPC must be positioned on the can label 

as shown in Exhibit 1. The shipping container UPC must be marked on the case as 

shown in Exhibit 2. UPC’s are not required for commercial labeling with tray 

pack shipping containers.

J. Palletization Requirements

1. Pallets

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

2. 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.

K. Shipment and Delivery

1. Quantity Tolerance

Contractor will be allowed a tolerance on the final delivery of plus or minus 50 

cases of each product, from each shipping point named in the purchase order.

L. Allergens 

All canned vegetable products (excluding commodity K. – Soups) will be 

processed and packaged using equipment that:
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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 

vegetable products run.

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. 

II. Individual Commodity Specifications

A. Asparagus –

Container size: 6/10 size can, 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). 

 Whole Spears – 1 5 oz. tall cans

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

B. Beans, Green –

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. 
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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.

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

C. 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 inches in 

diameter.

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

D. Corn, Whole Kernel –

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; 

vacuum-pack 6/10 only.

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

5. No added sodium.

E. Corn, Cream Style –

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

1. Grade – U.S. Grade B.

2. Color – Golden or Yellow.
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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.

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

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

F. 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/IBF (published separately), the average drained weight 

shall not be less than 9.1 ounces.

1. Type I – 7-way mix

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

G. 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).

H. Potatoes –

Container size: 24/300 size can

Type of Vegetable 1/

Total avg. drained weight

 Minimum Maximum 

 Percent Percent

Carrots (Diced) 33 48

Potatoes (Diced) 17 41

Lima beans, thin seeded 1 12

Peas, sweet 3 12

Beans, green (Short, cut, or mixed) 3 12

Corn, yellow (Whole kernel) 3 9

Celery (Cut, 1⁄2 inch maximum in length) 2 9
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1. Grade – U.S. Grade A.

2. Style – Whole and sliced potatoes.

3. Size – Small.

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

I. Pumpkin –

Container size: 24/300 size can

1. Grade – U.S. Grade A.

2. No added sodium.

J. 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 b – 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).

8. Appearance - 

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

the dices being approximately: 

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

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

K. Soups –

Container size: 24/1 size can & 12/22 ounce carton

1. Vegetarian – The canned soup shall comply with CID No. A-A-20145 –

effective on the date of the Solicitation/IFB (published separately), Type V 

– Condensed, low Sodium, Flavor B, Vegetarian Vegetable. Sodium 

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

Description – A vegetarian soup containing pasta, tomatoes and/or tomato paste, 

and at least four of the following vegetables: carrots, celery, corn, green peas, 

green beans, potatoes, and spices.

2. Tomato – The canned soup shall comply with CID No. A-A-20145 –

effective on the date of the Solicitation/IFB (published separately), Type 

V – Condensed, Low Sodium, Flavor A, Tomato. Sodium content – 36 mg 

- 140 mg per serving (defined as 1⁄2 cup).

3. Cream of Mushroom – The soup shall comply with CID No. A-A-20145 –

effective on the date of the solicitation/IFB (published separately), Type VI 

– Ready to Serve, “Healthy” Flavor C, Cream of Mushroom. Sodium 

content-200 mg to 300 mg per serving (defined as 1⁄2 cup). Package Type 2 

–Aseptic Package, Size K – Other (12/22 ounce).
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4. Cream of Chicken – The soup shall comply with CID No. A-A-20145-

effective on date of the solicitation/IFB (published separately), Type VIReady to Serve, “Healthy”, Flavor E, Other, Cream of Chicken. Sodium 

content- 200 mg to 300 mg per serving (defined as 1⁄2 cup). Package Type 2 

– Aseptic Package, Size K – Other, (12/22 ounce). 

L. 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.

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.

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.

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

Color Standards for Tomato Products A1 or A2.

2. 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.

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

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

8 percent.

4. 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.

M. Spinach –

Container size: 24/300 size can
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1. Grade – U.S. Grade A.

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

3. Fill of Container – The sample average net weight shall be not less than 14.0 

ounces and no individual container shall have a net weight of less than 13.3 

ounces.

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

N. 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.

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, or mashed (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 except mashed, may be whole, halved, 

pieces/cuts, or any combination thereof, provided that 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.

O. 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.
SCI Division Commodity Specifications Canned Vegetables

Effective Date: May 2017 Page 17 of 37

 

3. No added sodium.

P. 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.

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.

Q. Tomato Paste –

Container size: 6/10 size can or 6/10-equivalent (6/111 ounce pouch) & 55-gallon

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. 
SCI Division Commodity Specifications Canned Vegetables

Effective Date: May 2017 Page 18 of 37

 

b. 55-gallon drum – The drums shall be filled to a net weight of 535 pounds, 

plus or minus five pounds. Maximum shipping unit (truckload) net weight 

shall equal 38,520 pounds, within a tolerance of minus one percent (1%). 

4. No added sodium.

5. Each lot of tomato paste in 55-gallon drums shall average 31 percent total soluble 

solids (TSS), and no containers shall be more than 33 percent TSS or less than 29 

percent TSS.

6. Commercially acceptable drums in fiber or metal.

Tomato Paste in Bulk for Processing, Totes/Bins

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 1%. Maximum shipping unit (truckload) net weight shall equal 39,900 

pounds, within a tolerance of minus one percent (1%).

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.

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

R. Tomato Sauce –

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

 Grade - U.S. Grade A.

1. 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. 

2. 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.

3. Sodium content – 36 mg - 140 mg per serving (defined as 1⁄2 cup). 
SCI Division Commodity Specifications Canned Vegetables

Effective Date: May 2017 Page 19 of 37

 

S. Hominy –

Container size: 24/300 size can

1. Grade – U.S. Grade A.

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).

III. Inspection and Checkloading

A. Requirements

Representatives of the AMS, Fruit and Vegetable Program, Specialty Crops Inspection 

(SCI) Division (USDA Inspector) must perform the inspection and checkloading. See 

section X of 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. 

B. Certification

Subject to (See section X of the Master Solicitation) the acceptability of the quality, 

weight, packaging, and checkloading of the product must be evidenced by certificates 

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.
SCI Division Commodity Specifications Canned Vegetables

Effective Date: May 2017 Page 20 of 37

 

C. 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 fax log, to alleviate possible miscommunication.

D. Laboratory Tests

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

required) to be completed and returned. 

IV. 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.

V. Exhibits

Exhibit 1-1

Can Label for Canned Asparagus, No. 300 size

Choose My Plate-graphic-resources
SCI Division Commodity Specifications Canned Vegetables

Effective Date: May 2017 Page 21 of 37

 

Exhibit 1-2

Can Label for Canned Green Beans, No. 10 size

Choose My Plate-graphic-resources

Exhibit 1-3

Can Label for Canned Green Beans, No. 300 size

Exhibit 1-4

Can Label for Canned Carrots, No. 10 size
SCI Division Commodity Specifications Canned Vegetables

Effective Date: May 2017 Page 22 of 37

 

 Please insert My Plate graphics in lieu of the Food Pyramid here. 

 

Choose My Plate-graphic-resources

Exhibit 1-5

Can Label for Canned Carrots, No. 300 size
SCI Division Commodity Specifications Canned Vegetables

Effective Date: May 2017 Page 23 of 37

 

Exhibit 1-6

Can Label for Canned Whole Kernel Corn, No. 10 size

Choose My Plate-graphic-resources

Exhibit 1-7

Can Label for Canned Whole Kernel Corn, No. 300 size
SCI Division Commodity Specifications Canned Vegetables

Effective Date: May 2017 Page 24 of 37

 

Exhibit 1-8

Can Label for Canned Cream Style Corn, No. 300 size

Exhibit 1-9

Can Label for Canned Mixed Vegetables, No. 300 size

 Please insert My Plate graphics in lieu of the Food Pyramid here. 

Choose My Plate-graphic-resources
SCI Division Commodity Specifications Canned Vegetables

Effective Date: May 2017 Page 25 of 37

 

Exhibit 1-10

Can Label for Canned Peas, No. 10 size

Choose My Plate-graphic-resources

Exhibit 1-11

Can Label for Canned Peas, No. 300 size
SCI Division Commodity Specifications Canned Vegetables

Effective Date: May 2017 Page 26 of 37

 

Exhibit 1-12

Can Label for Canned Potatoes, No. 300 size

Choose My Plate-graphic-resources

Exhibit 1-13

Can Label for Canned Pumpkin, No. 300 size
SCI Division Commodity Specifications Canned Vegetables

Effective Date: May 2017 Page 27 of 37

 

Exhibit 1-14

Can Label for Canned Salsa, No. 10 size

Choose My Plate-graphic-resources

Exhibit 1-15

Can Label for Canned Vegetable Soup, No. 1 size
SCI Division Commodity Specifications Canned Vegetables

Effective Date: May 2017 Page 28 of 37

 

Exhibit 1-16

Can Label for Canned Tomato Soup, No. 1 size

Choose My Plate-graphic-resources

Exhibit 1-17

Can Label for Canned Spaghetti Sauce, No. 10 size
SCI Division Commodity Specifications Canned Vegetables

Effective Date: May 2017 Page 29 of 37

 

Exhibit 1-18

Can Label for Canned Spaghetti Sauce, No. 300 size

Choose My Plate-graphic-resources

Exhibit 1-19

Can Label for Canned Spinach, No. 300 size
SCI Division Commodity Specifications Canned Vegetables

Effective Date: May 2017 Page 30 of 37

 

Exhibit 1-20

Can Label for Canned Sweet Potatoes, No. 10 size

 Please insert My Plate graphics in lieu of the Food Pyramid here. 

 

Choose My Plate-graphic-resources
SCI Division Commodity Specifications Canned Vegetables

Effective Date: May 2017 Page 31 of 37

 

Exhibit 1-21

Can Label for Canned Sweet Potatoes, Syrup No. 10 size

 Please insert My Plate graphics in lieu of the Food Pyramid here. 

Exhibit 1-22

Can Label for Canned Sweet Potatoes, No. 300 size

Choose My Plate-graphic-resources
SCI Division Commodity Specifications Canned Vegetables

Effective Date: May 2017 Page 32 of 37

 

Exhibit 1-23

Can Label for Canned Tomatoes, No. 10 size

Exhibit 1-24

Can Label for Canned Tomatoes, No. 300 size

Choose My Plate-graphic-resources
SCI Division Commodity Specifications Canned Vegetables

Effective Date: May 2017 Page 33 of 37

 

Exhibit 1-25

Can Label for Canned Tomato Paste, No. 10 size

Exhibit 1-26

Can Label for Canned Tomato Sauce, No. 10 size

Choose My Plate-graphic-resources
SCI Division Commodity Specifications Canned Vegetables

Effective Date: May 2017 Page 34 of 37

 

Exhibit 1-27

Can Label for Canned Tomato Sauce, No. 300 size

Choose My Plate-graphic-resources
SCI Division Commodity Specifications Canned Vegetables

Effective Date: May 2017 Page 35 of 37

 

Exhibit 2

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 5/

STORE IN COOL, DRY PLACE

 

 

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 “5”).
SCI Division Commodity Specifications Canned Vegetables

Effective Date: May 2017 Page 36 of 37

 

Exhibit 3

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

STORE IN A COOL DRY PLACE

1234567891012345678910
SCI Division Commodity Specifications Canned Vegetables

Effective Date: May 2017 Page 37 of 37

 

Exhibit 4

Sample Alternative Label for Shipping Containers

Canned Peas

6/No. 10 cans

Purchase Order Number xxxxx

 Packed by: ABC Growers

 Any Town, CA 99999

STORE IN A COOL DRY PLACE

1 11 07 15001 01434 1
SCI Division Commodity Specifications Canned Vegetables

Effective Date: May 2017 Page 38 of 37

 

Exhibit 5

Universal Product Codes

 WBSCM 

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

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

24/1 cans

Tomato Soup 100322 7 15001 003225 1 07 15001 00322 2

Vegetable Soup 100321 7 15001 003218 1 07 15001 00321 5

12/22 oz. carton

Cream of Chicken Soup 110163 7 15001 101631 1 07 15001 10163 8 

Cream of Mushroom Soup 110164 7 15001 101648 1 07 15001 10164 5

6/10 cans

Asparagus N/A 

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 (mashed) 100318 7 15001 103185 1 07 15001 10318 2

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

Tomatoes (crushed) N/A 

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

Whole Kernel Corn (vacuum) N/A 

6/10-equivalent pouches

Spaghetti Sauce Meatless Pouch-6/106 oz. 110177 7 15001 101778 1 07 15001 10177 5
SCI Division Commodity Specifications Canned Vegetables

Effective Date: May 2017 Page 39 of 37

 

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
SCI Division Commodity Specifications Canned Vegetables

Effective Date: May 2017 Page 40 of 37

 

Exhibit 6

“Please Recycle” Symbol and Statement

Can be placed on bottom panels

PLEASE

RECYCLE
SCI Division Commodity Specifications Canned Vegetables

Effective Date: May 2017 Page 41 of 37

 

Exhibit 7

“Corrugated Recycles” Symbol and Statement

Can be placed on bottom panels
SCI Division Commodity Specifications Canned Vegetables

Effective Date: May 2017 Page 42 of 37

 

Exhibit 8

USDA Symbol
SCI Division Commodity Specifications Canned Vegetables

Effective Date: May 2017 Page 43 of 37

 

Exhibit 9-1

Symbols for Kosher Products

Exhibit 9-2

Symbols for Halal Products