U Marketing and

Regulatory

Programs

Agricultural

Marketing

Service

Specialty

Crops

Program

Commodity Specification 

for Canned Fruit

August 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 

from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity (including 

gender expression), sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status, family/parental status, 

income derived from a public assistance program, political beliefs, or reprisal or retaliation for 

prior civil rights activity, in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA (not all bases 

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

Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program 

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 

Agriculture, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, 

Washington, D.C. 20250-9410; (2) fax: (202) 690-7442; or (3) email: program.intake@usda.gov.

USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.
i

Commodity Specification for Canned Fruit

Table of Contents

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

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

Exceptions to U.S. Standards.......................................................................................................... 1

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

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

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

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

Grade of Canned Fruit .................................................................................................................... 3

Packing Medium for Canned Fruits................................................................................................ 3

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

Labels and Packaging................................................................................................................... 4

Primary Containers (Cans and Labels) ........................................................................................... 4

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

Secondary Containers (case) for Non-Commercial Labels ............................................................ 5

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

Palletization Requirements.......................................................................................................... 6

Pallets.............................................................................................................................................. 6

Unitization....................................................................................................................................... 6

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

Applesauce.................................................................................................................................. 6

Apple Slices................................................................................................................................ 8

Apricots....................................................................................................................................... 8

Cherries, Red Tart Pitted ............................................................................................................ 9

Cranberry Sauce.......................................................................................................................... 9

Fruit Cocktail ............................................................................................................................ 10

Mixed Fruit ............................................................................................................................... 10

Peaches...................................................................................................................................... 10

Pears.......................................................................................................................................... 11

Plums ........................................................................................................................................ 11

Inspection, Certification, and Checkloading............................................................................. 12

Requirements ................................................................................................................................ 12

Certification .................................................................................................................................. 12

Checkloading ................................................................................................................................ 12

Procedures..................................................................................................................................... 12

Laboratory Tests............................................................................................................................ 13

Failure to Meet Specifications.................................................................................................... 13

Reference Links........................................................................................................................... 14

Exhibit 1 – Required Markings for Non-Commercial Shipping Containers ................................ 15

Exhibit 2 – Alternative Label for Shipping Containers................................................................ 16

Exhibit 3 – Sample Alternative Label for Shipping Containers................................................... 17

Exhibit 4 - Universal Product Codes ............................................................................................ 18

Exhibit 5- “Please Recycle” Symbol and Statement..................................................................... 19

Exhibit 6 - “Corrugated Recycles” Symbol and Statement .......................................................... 20

Exhibit 7 - USDA Symbol ............................................................................................................ 21

Exhibit 8 - Symbols for Commercial Kosher Products ................................................................ 22
Commodity Specification Canned Fruit

Effective Date: August 2021 Page 1 of 22

GENERAL

U.S. Standards

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

the requirements specified in the applicable United States Standards for Grades of Canned Fruit

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

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

Commodity Specification.

Exceptions to U.S. Standards

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

purchases 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.

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.
Commodity Specification Canned Fruit

Effective Date: August 2021 Page 2 of 22

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:

• 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 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.
Commodity Specification Canned Fruit

Effective Date: August 2021 Page 3 of 22

Packing Season

All fresh fruit 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 purchased 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 

fruit 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.

Grade of Canned Fruit

All canned fruit must be U.S. Grade B (as defined in the U. S. Standards) unless otherwise 

specified in Section II, Individual Commodity Specifications, herein or the applicable 

Solicitation.

Packing Medium for Canned Fruits

1. Unless otherwise specified in the applicable Solicitation/IFB, packing media (as defined 

in the U.S. Standards) may be sucrose or other FDA approved syrups: 

a. extra light syrup 

b. slightly sweetened fruit juice(s) and water*

c. slightly sweetened fruit juice(s)*

d. fruit juice(s)*

(*) If the packing medium is slightly sweetened fruit juice(s) and water, slightly

sweetened fruit juice(s), or fruit juice, then the Brix measurement must not exceed extra

light syrup for the product.

2. The label must declare the correct packing medium.

3. Food and Drug Standards of Identity (21 C.F.R. Parts 100-169) allow the optional

ingredients of vinegar, lemon juice, or organic acids. The optional ingredient(s), if

present in the product, must be declared on the label.

4. Natural flavoring may be added to improve or increase the natural flavor of the fruit.

Components from natural sources may be used in combination to imitate the fruit being 

purchased.

Fill of Container

1. Contractor must meet either the drained weight or the fill weight for the product as
Commodity Specification Canned Fruit

Effective Date: August 2021 Page 4 of 22

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 or they may use non-commercial packaging and labeling 

as specified in the Master Solicitation.

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

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

3. All individual serving size containers shall be commercially labeled, packaged, and the 

vendor’s UPC shall be used on the secondary containers.

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

Canned fruit 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.

5. For 24/#300 or smaller, labels must also meet the following formatting criteria:

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

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

on the principal display panel.

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 cases may be achieved by shrink wrapping 

together two 12/#300 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 exceed 1 inch if the openings are 

completely stretch- wrapped. The stretch-wrap may also have reasonably sized 
Commodity Specification Canned Fruit

Effective Date: August 2021 Page 5 of 22

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 non-commercial and 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 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.

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.
Commodity Specification Canned Fruit

Effective Date: August 2021 Page 6 of 22

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 fruit 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.

INDIVIDUAL COMMODITY SPECIFICATIONS

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

and pop-top lids cannot be intermingled within a truckload.

Applesauce

Commercial Kosher Canned Applesauce packed in 6/#10 cans (110541) and 24/#300 cans 

(100207) must be produced and packed in a Kosher certified facility and must contain one of 

the Kosher Symbols in Exhibit 8.

BJENY Kosher Canned Applesauce packed in 6/#10 cans (110053 Kosher) must be produced 

and packed in a “613 Council of Kashruth” Kosher certified facility but does not require a 

Kosher Symbol.

See Kosher Product section above on page 2 for further information.

1. Grade – U.S. Grade A except for the following exceptions to Grade A. Color: Must be 

bright, practically uniform, color typical of variety or blend of varieties used. May be 

slightly green, slightly pink, with no grey or other discoloration due to oxidation or 

scorching. 

2. Color Type – Natural.

3. Flavor Type – Natural flavor.

4. Type of Pack – Unsweetened
Commodity Specification Canned Fruit

Effective Date: August 2021 Page 7 of 22

5. Style – Regular (comminuted).

6. Net Weight –

a. No. 300 size cans must average not less than 15.0 ounces, provided no individual

sample has a net weight less than 14.5 ounces.

b. 23 to 24-ounce plastic jars: 

i. The plastic jars must average declared label net weight of 23.0 ounces to 

24 ounces

ii. No individual sample will have a net weight less than 0.5 ounces below 

the declared label weight

iii. 12 plastic jars/case

c. No. 10 size cans must average not less than 106.0 ounces, provided no individual

sample has a net weight less than 104.0 ounces.

7. De-tinning – The canned applesauce must be packed in a manner so as to minimize detinning. This must be accomplished either by high vacuum or other means to minimize

oxygen content.

Applesauce in Individual Serving Sizes

1. Grade – U.S. Grade A. Grade – U.S. Grade A except for the following exceptions to 

Grade A. Color: Must be bright, practically uniform, color typical of variety or blend of 

varieties used. May be slightly green, slightly pink, with no grey or other discoloration 

due to oxidation or scorching. 

2. Color Type – Natural. 

3. Flavor Type – Natural flavor.

4. Type of Pack – Unsweetened

5. Style – Regular (comminuted).

6. Primary Container – Individual portion serving plastic cups. Cups:

a. Must be commercially labeled with minimum FDA labeling requirements.

b. Must have at least 2 additional colors other than black and/or white and a visual 

representation of the product.
Commodity Specification Canned Fruit

Effective Date: August 2021 Page 8 of 22

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

inspection certificates and to insure traceability in the event of a recall.

7. Individual Net Weight

a. 4.5 ounces per cup, 96 cups per case (without sleeve).

b. 4.0 ounces per cup contained within a commercially acceptable 6 – cup printed 

sleeve, 12 sleeves/72 cups per case.

c. Sleeves must:

i. Be commercially labeled and contain minimum FDA labeling 

requirements and a Nutritional Facts Panel

ii. Must have at least 2 additional colors other than black and/or white and a 

visual representation of the product 

8. 96/4.5 cases may be achieved by shrink wrapping together two 48/4.5-ounce cases.

Apple Slices

1. Grade – U.S. Grade A.

2. Style – Sliced.

3. Fill of Container – Must meet the recommended fill except that number 10 cans shall

have a minimum drained weight not less than 92 ounces.

4. Packing Medium – Packed in water without salt (including calcium chloride or sodium 

chloride), or nutritive sweeteners.

Apricots

1. Grade - U.S. Grade B (or equivalent to U.S. Grade B for Diced style) as specified in the 

U.S. Standard for Grades of Canned Apricots and Canned Solid Pack Apricots.

2. Type of Pack – Regular.

a. Style – Peeled or unpeeled halves.

i. Count – Not more than 135 unpeeled halves per No. 10 size can.

b. Style – Peeled or unpeeled diced.

i. Fill Weight - The fill weight must average not less than 72.5 ounces

provide no individual can contains 68.6 ounces or less
Commodity Specification Canned Fruit

Effective Date: August 2021 Page 9 of 22

ii. Drained weight – The drained weight must average 64.0 ounces provided

no individual can contains less than 61.7 ounces.

iii. Varietal Characteristics – Must have similar varietal characteristics.

iv. Flavor and Odor – Must have normal flavor and odor.

v. Color – Reasonably good color.

vi. Size – Fairly uniform size. Diced – Not more than 15 percent, by weight

of the drained apricots may be units that are more than 1 inch in their

greatest edge dimension or of such size as to pass through 5/16 inch 

square opening.

vii. Defects – Reasonably free.

viii. Peel – Not more than 1 3/8 square inch per 30 ounce sample if specified as

peeled.

Cherries, Red Tart Pitted

1. Grade – U.S. Grade B (Except must be U.S. Grade A for Pits).

2. Packing Medium – Water Pack.

3. Drained Weight –

a. The drained weight must average not less than 72.0 ounces and shall not be less

than 71.2 ounces for No. 10 cans.

b. The drained weight for #300 size cans packed in juice must average not less than

9.9 ounces, provided no individual can contains less than 9.7 ounces.

c. The drained weight for #300 size cans packed in water must average not less than 

9.2 ounces, provided no individual can contains less than 8.9 ounces.

Cranberry Sauce

Canned cranberry sauce must meet the requirements specified in the applicable United States 

Standards for Grades of Canned Cranberry Sauce. The sauce is the jellied or semi- jellied 

product prepared from clean, sound, matured, or fairly matured cranberries, a sweetening

ingredient or sweetening ingredients, and water.

1. Style – 1-Jellied or strained (typical of a jellied product prepared from strained

cranberries).

2. Grade – A or U.S. Fancy.
Commodity Specification Canned Fruit

Effective Date: August 2021 Page 10 of 22

3. Color – Bright, dark red color typical of canned cranberries which color is free from any 

dullness.

4. Consistency and Texture – The gel is tender to slightly firm and there may be evidence of

a reasonable separation of free liquid.

5. Absence of Defects – Practically free. 

6. Flavor and Odor – The product possesses a good characteristic, slightly tart flavor typical

of cooked cranberries and that the product is free from any trace of a caramelized flavor

or odor of any kind.

7. Soluble Solid – 35 to 45 percent.

8. Pack Size – 24/#300 can.

Each container must be filled as full as practicable with cranberry sauce and that the product 

occupies not less than 90 percent of the volume of the container.

Fruit Cocktail

1. Grade – U.S. Grade B

Mixed Fruit

1. Grade – The canned mixed fruit must be equivalent to U.S. Grade B for the three fruit

ingredients (see below), as defined in the U.S. Standards for Grades of Canned Fruit

Cocktail.

2. Drained Weight: As specified in the U.S. Standards for Grades of Canned Fruit Cocktail.

Proportion of Fruit Ingredients

Fruit Ingredient Style Proportion (by weight)

Peaches (any yellow variety) Diced 40 to 60 percent of drained fruit

Pears (any variety) Diced 20 to 45 percent of drained fruit

Grapes (any seedless 

variety) Whole 15 to 25 percent of drained fruit

Peaches

1. Grade – U.S. Grade B.

2. Varietal type – Yellow Freestone (Lovell and Kim Elberta varieties excluded) or Yellow 

Clingstone.
Commodity Specification Canned Fruit

Effective Date: August 2021 Page 11 of 22

3. Styles – Halved, quartered, sliced, and diced. Canned peaches must be peeled.

Pears

Commercial Kosher Canned Diced Pears packed in 6/#10 cans (100225), must be produced and 

packed in a Kosher certified facility and must contain one of the Kosher Symbols in Exhibit 8.

BJENY Kosher Canned Diced Pears packed in 6/#10 cans (110055 Kosher) must be produced and 

packed in a “613 Council of Kashruth” certified facility but do not require a Kosher Symbol. See 

Kosher Product section above on page 2 for further information.

1. Grade – U.S. Grade B (except must be U.S. Grade A for defects on diced pears).

2. Varietal type – Bartlett.

3. Styles – Halved, quartered, sliced, and diced. Canned pears must be peeled.

4. Type of pack – Natural (no added spices or flavoring).

5. Count – The count of the halves must be no less than 26 nor more than 54 per No. 10 size 

can, not less than 4 or more than 10 per No. 300 size can, and not less than 6 or more than 

12 per No. 2-1/2 size can.

6. Weight – The drained weight for the No. 10 size cans of pear halves must average not

less than 62.6 ounces, provided no individual can contains less than 60.7 ounces.

Plums

1. Grade – U.S. Grade B.

2. Varietal type – Purple.

3. Styles

a. Whole, unpeeled, pitted

b. Halves, unpeeled, pitted

4. Weight

a. Pitted – No. 300 cans must average not less 7.6 ounces provided no individual

can contain less than 6.9 ounces.
Commodity Specification Canned Fruit

Effective Date: August 2021 Page 12 of 22

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 contract 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 SCI 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 contract shall constitute rejection of such lot.

Checkloading

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

Canned Fruit, by USDA inspectors, will be eliminated for contracts announced after October 1, 2020. 

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.
Commodity Specification Canned Fruit

Effective Date: August 2021 Page 13 of 22

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

notice, such as email, to alleviate possible miscommunication.

LaboratoryTests

The Contractor must allow 14 calendar 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 fruit 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 contract price less a discount, to

be determined by the Contracting Officer.
Commodity Specification Canned Fruit

Effective Date: August 2021 Page 14 of 22

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 Fruit

Effective Date: August 2021 Page 15 of 22

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 (optional) may 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. Apple, Grape, etc.).

2/ Insert the size and number of packages per case, i.e. 24/#300, 6/#10 cans.

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”).

Recycle symbols and statements can be placed on bottom panels (Exhibit “5” and “6”).
Commodity Specification Canned Fruit

Effective Date: August 2021 Page 16 of 22

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 - Optional

STORE IN A COOL DRY PLACE
Commodity Specification Canned Fruit

Effective Date: August 2021 Page 17 of 22

Exhibit 3 – Sample Alternative Label for Shipping Containers

Canned Pears Sliced

Packed in Unsweetened Pear Juice

6/No. 10 cans

Purchase Order Number xxxxx

Packed by: ABC Growers

Any Town, CA 99999

USDA Symbol - Optional

STORE IN A COOL DRY PLACE

 1 11 07 15001 01434 1
Commodity Specification Canned Fruit

Effective Date: August 2021 Page 18 of 22

Exhibit 4 - Universal Product Codes

Canned Fruit WBSCM

Material

Primary Container Secondary 

Container

APPLESAUCE CUP-96/4.5 (WITHOUT

SLEEVE)

110361 7 15001 10361 1 1 07 15001 10361 8

APPLESAUCE CUP-72/4.0 (WITH 6-CUP 

SLEEVE) 110890 7 15001 10890 6 1 07 15001 10890 3

APPLESAUCE CAN-24/300 100207 7 15001 00207 5 1 07 15001 00207 2

APPLESAUCE UNSWEETENED CAN6/10 110541 7 15001 10541 7 1 07 15001 10541 4

APPLESAUCE JAR-12/23 111073 7 15001 11073 2 1 07 15001 11073 9

K APPLESAUCE CAN-6/10 (KOSHER) 110053 7 15001 10053 5 1 07 15001 10053 2

APPLE SLICES CAN-6/10 100206 7 15001 00206 8 1 07 15001 00206 5

APRICOT HALVES CAN-24/300 100210 7 15001 00210 5 1 07 15001 00210 2

APRICOTS CAN-6/10 100209 7 15001 00209 9 1 07 15001 00209 6

K APRICOTS CAN-6/10 (KOSHER) 110111 7 15001 10111 2 1 07 15001 10111 9

APRICOTS DICED PEELED CAN-6/10 100216 7 15001 00216 7 1 07 15001 00216 4

CHERRIES RED TART PITTED CAN24/300 100227 7 15001 00227 3 1 07 15001 00227 0

CHERRIES RED TART PITTED CAN-6/10 100228 7 15001 00228 0 1 07 15001 00228 7

CRANBERRY SAUCE CAN 24/300 100213 7 15001 00213 6 1 07 15001 00213 3

FRUIT COCKTAIL CAN-24/300 100215 7 15001 00215 0 1 07 15001 00215 7

MIXED FRUIT CAN-24/300 100211 7 15001 00211 2 1 07 15001 00211 9

MIXED FRUIT CAN-6/10 100212 7 15001 00212 9 1 07 15001 00212 6

MIXED FRUIT CAN-12/2.5 111253 7 15001 11253 8 1 07 15001 11253 5

PEACHES CLING SLICES CAN-24/300 100218 7 15001 00218 1 1 07 15001 00218 8

PEACHES CLING SLICES CAN-12/2.5 111244 7 15001 11244 6 1 07 15001 11244 3

PEACHES CLING CAN-6/10 100219 7 15001 00219 8 1 07 15001 00219 5

K PEACHES CLING CAN-6/10 (KOSHER) 110054 7 15001 10054 2 1 07 15001 10054 9

PEACHES CLING DICED CAN-6/10 100220 7 15001 00220 4 1 07 15001 00220 1

PEACHES CLING HALVES CAN-12/2.5 111245 7 15001 11245 3 1 07 15001 11245 0

PEACHES FREESTONE CAN-24/#2.5 100221 7 15001 00221 1 1 07 15001 00221 8

PEACHES FREESTONE CAN-24/300 100222 7 15001 00222 8 1 07 15001 00222 5

PEARS CAN-24/300 100223 7 15001 00223 5 1 07 15001 00223 2

PEARS HALVES CAN 12/2.5 111246 7 15001 11246 0 1 07 15001 11246 7

PEARS HALVES CAN-6/10 100226 7 15001 00226 6 1 07 15001 00226 3

PEARS SLICES CAN-6/10 100224 7 15001 00224 2 1 07 15001 00224 9

K PEARS SLICES CAN-6/10 (KOSHER) 110055 7 15001 10055 9 1 07 15001 10055 6

PEARS DICED CAN-6/10 100225 7 15001 00225 9 1 07 15001 00225 6

PLUMS PURPLE CAN-24/300 100233 7 15001 00233 4 1 07 15001 00233 1
Commodity Specification Canned Fruit

Effective Date: August 2021 Page 19 of 22

Exhibit 5- “Please Recycle” Symbol and Statement

PLEASE RECYCLE
Commodity Specification Canned Fruit

Effective Date: August 2021 Page 20 of 22

Exhibit 6 - “Corrugated Recycles” Symbol and Statement
Commodity Specification Canned Fruit

Effective Date: August 2021 Page 21 of 22

Exhibit 7 - USDA Symbol

USDA Symbol - Optional
Commodity Specification Canned Fruit

Effective Date: August 2021 Page 22 of 22

Exhibit 8 - Symbols for Commercial 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/