Marketing and

Regulatory

Programs

Agricultural

Marketing

Service

Specialty

Crops

Program

Commodity Specification

for Canned Fruit

March 2018
Commodity Specifications Canned Fruit

Effective Date: March 2018 Page 2 of 31

Table of Contents

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

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

B. Exceptions to U.S. Standards................................................................................................................5

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

D. Kosher Products....................................................................................................................................6

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

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

G. Grade of Canned Fruit ..........................................................................................................................6

H. Packing Medium for Canned Fruits......................................................................................................6

I. Fill of Container....................................................................................................................................7

J . Packing, Labels, and Packaging ...........................................................................................................7

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

L. Palletization Requirements...................................................................................................................9

M. Shipment and Delivery.......................................................................................................................10

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

A. Applesauce..........................................................................................................................................10

B. Apple Slices........................................................................................................................................11

C. Apricots.............................................................................................................................................101

D. Cherries, Red Tart Pitted ..................................................................................................................112

E. Cranberry Sauce................................................................................................................................112

F. Fruit Cocktail....................................................................................................................................123

G. Mixed Fruit .......................................................................................................................................123

H. Peaches .............................................................................................................................................123

I. Pears..................................................................................................................................................134

J. Plums ................................................................................................................................................134

K. Pineapple...........................................................................................................................................145

III. Inspection and Checkloading .........................................................................................................145

A. Requirements....................................................................................................................................145

B. Certification ......................................................................................................................................156

C. Procedures.........................................................................................................................................156

D. LaboratoryTests................................................................................................................................156

IV. Failure to Meet Specifications........................................................................................................156

V. Exhibits.....................................................................................................................................................16

Exhibit 1-1 ................................................................................................................................................167

Can Label for Canned Applesauce, No. 10 size .......................................................................................167

Exhibit 1-2 ................................................................................................................................................167
Commodity Specifications Canned Fruit

Can Label for Canned Applesauce, No. 300 size.......................................................................................167

Exhibit 1-3 ................................................................................................................................................178

Can Label for Canned Apple Slices, No. 10 size.......................................................................................178

Exhibit 1-4 ................................................................................................................................................178

Can Label for Canned Apricots, No. 10 size .............................................................................................178

Exhibit 1-5 ................................................................................................................................................189

Can Label for Canned Apricots, No. 300 size ...........................................................................................189

Exhibit 1-6 ................................................................................................................................................189

Can Label for Canned RTP Cherries, No. 10 size .....................................................................................189

Exhibit 1-7 ..................................................................................................................................................20

Can Label for Canned Fruit Cocktail, No. 300 size.....................................................................................20

Exhibit 1-8 ..................................................................................................................................................20

Can Label for Canned Mixed Fruit, No. 10 size..........................................................................................20

Exhibit 1-9 ................................................................................................................................................201

Can Label for Canned Peaches, No. 10 size..............................................................................................201

Exhibit 1-10 ..............................................................................................................................................201

Can Label for Canned Peaches, No. 300 size............................................................................................201

Exhibit 1-11 ..............................................................................................................................................212

Can Label for Canned Pears, No. 10 size ..................................................................................................212

Exhibit 1-12 ................................................................................................................................................21

Can Label for Canned Pears, No. 300 size ................................................................................................212

Exhibit 1-13 ..............................................................................................................................................223

Can Label for Canned Plums, No. 300 size...............................................................................................223

Exhibit 1-14...............................................................................................................................................223

Can Label for Canned Pineapple, No. 10 size ...........................................................................................223

Exhibit 1-15 ..............................................................................................................................................234

Can Label for Canned Pineapple, No. 2 size .............................................................................................234

Exhibit 2....................................................................................................................................................245

Required Markingsfor Non-Commercial Shipping Containers.................................................................245

Exhibit 3....................................................................................................................................................256

Alternative Label for Shipping Containers................................................................................................256

Exhibit 4....................................................................................................................................................267

Sample Alternative Label for Shipping Containers...................................................................................267

Exhibit 5....................................................................................................................................................278

Universal Product Codes ..........................................................................................................................278

Exhibit 6....................................................................................................................................................289

“Please Recycle” Symbol and Statement ..................................................................................................289

Exhibit 7......................................................................................................................................................30
Commodity Specifications Canned Fruit

“Corrugated Recycles” Symbol and Statement ...........................................................................................30

Exhibit 8....................................................................................................................................................301

USDA Symbol ..........................................................................................................................................301
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I. General

A. 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.

B. 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.

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 order awarded by USDA. Such segregation

plan must be made available, within 10 days of contract 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.

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 Inspector will select and review at least one 

code for each
Commodity Specifications Canned Fruit

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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. Kosher Products

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

on the solicitation with the letter “K” incorporated into the WBSCM material descriptions.

Vendors must comply with the applicable dietary (KOSHER) laws as established by the 

“613 COUNCIL OF KASHRUTH” in the production of these commodity products. Vendors

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

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.

E. Packing Season

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

specified in the applicable Solicitation/IFB.

F. Holding Period

No shipment of canned fruit may be made earlier than 14 days after packing. No delivery

shall be case stamped prior to the completion of the 14-day holding period.

G. 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.

H. 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:
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Effective Date: March 2018 Page 7 of 31

• extra light syrup

• slightly sweetened fruit juice(s) and water*

• slightly sweetened fruit juice(s)*

• 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.

I. 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.

J . Packing, Labels, and Packaging

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

which meet all applicable FDA packaging and labeling requirements (link to: FDA 

Food Labeling Regulations). Retail labels must also meet minimum requirements as 

specified in the Master Solicitation.

Minimum labeling requirements for the primary container are:

• Statement of identity, or name of the food 

• Net quantity statement

• Ingredient statement

• Manufacturer or distributer location statement

• Allergen declaration (if product contains a major allergen)

1. Primary Containers (Cans 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.
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b. The processors’ own commercially acceptable “brand” labels may be 

used on all Solicitations/IBFs unless prohibited by the Solicitation/IBF. 

Distributor’s “brand” labels are not acceptable.

c. All individual serving size containers shall be commercially labeled,

packaged, and the vendor’s UPC shall be used on the secondary

containers.

d. Canned fruit shall be packed only in the container size and type 

specified in the applicable Solicitation/IFB.

e. For 24/#300 or smaller size pack products, commercial labels

must also meet the following formatting criteria:

i. Must include, at a minimum, two (2) other colors, in addition to 

black and/or white.

ii. Must incorporate a graphic (photo or illustration) depicting the

product/contents on the principal display panel.

1. 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 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 (truck load).

USDA Label and Packaging

1. Primary Containers (cans)

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.

2. Can Labels

USDA can labels are shown in Exhibits 1-1 through 1-15. The wording and design of

the labels is restricted to that shown in the exhibit. 
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Effective Date: March 2018 Page 9 of 31

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 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

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.

K. 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.

L. Palletization Requirements

1. 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.
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Effective Date: March 2018 Page 10 of 31

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 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.

M. 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.

II. Individual Commodity Specifications

A. Applesauce

1. Grade – U.S. Grade A.

2. Color Type – Natural.

3. Flavor Type – Natural flavor.

4. Type of Pack – Unsweetened

5. Style – Regular (comminuted).

6. Net Weight – 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.

7. 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.

8. De-tinning – The canned applesauce must be packed in a manner so as to 

minimize de-tinning. 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.

2. Color Type – Natural. 

3. Flavor Type – Natural flavor.

4. Type of Pack – Unsweetened

5. Style – Regular (comminuted).
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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 if the container is not clear.

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 – 4.5 ounces per cup. 96 cups per case.

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:

• Be commercially labeled and contain minimum FDA labeling 

requirements and include a Nutritional Facts Panel

• 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.

B. 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 or nutritive sweeteners.

C. 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.

Style – Peeled or unpeeled halves.

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

b. Sliced, chunk, quartered, or irregular.

Style – Peeled or unpeeled diced.
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a. Fill Weight - The fill weight must average not less than 72.5 ounces

provide no individual can contains 68.6 ounces or less

b. Drained weight – The drained weight must average 64.0 ounces 

provided no individual can contains less than 61.7 ounces.

c. Varietal Characteristics – Must have similar varietal characteristics.

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

e. Color – Reasonably good color.

f. 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.

g. Defects – Reasonably free.

h. Peel – Not more than 1 3/8 square inch per 30 ounce sample

if specified peeled.

D. 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 water or 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.

E. 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.

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

free from any dullness.
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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 – 6/#10 can and 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.

F. Fruit Cocktail

Grade – U.S. Grade B.

G. 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

H. Peaches

1. Grade – U.S. Grade B.

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

excluded) or Yellow Clingstone.

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

Peaches in Individual Serving Sizes

1. Grade – U.S. Grade B.

2. Style – Diced (3/8 inch to 1/2 inch).

3. Variety – Yellow Clingstone.
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4. Size of Primary Container – Individual portion serving plastic cups.

5. Individual Net Weight – 4.5 ounces per cup, 96 cups per case.

6. The average drained weight shall not be less than 3.9 ounces.

I. Pears

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.

J. Plums

1. Grade – U.S. Grade B.

2. Varietal type – Purple.

3. Styles –

a. Whole, unpeeled, unpitted

b. Whole, unpeeled, pitted

c. Halves, unpeeled, pitted

4. Count –

a. Whole, unpeeled, unpitted must not exceed 95 per No. 10 can.

b. Whole, unpeeled, pitted - 95 per No. 10 can. 10 percent over allowed.

c. Unpeeled halves: Each No. 10 size can of unpeeled halves must be filled

as full as practical without the impairment of quality with the product

and packing medium occupying not less than 90 percent of the volume

of the container.

5. Weight –

a. Whole, unpeeled, unpitted – drained weight must average not less than

54.7 ounces, per No. 10 can provided no individual can contains less

than 52.5 ounces.

b. Whole, unpeeled, pitted – same as (a) above.

c. Unpeeled, halves – drained weight must average not less than 60.2 

ounces, per No. 10 can provided no individual can contains less

than 58.0 ounces.
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d. Pitted or unpitted – No. 300 cans must average not less 7.6 ounces

provided no individual can contain less than 6.9 ounces.

K. Pineapple

1. Grade – U.S. Grade B for sliced, tidbits, cubes or chunk styles and U.S.

Grade A for crushed style.

2. Style – Sliced, tidbits, cubes, chunk, and crushed. Crushed pineapple must be 

coarse cut.

3. Fill of Container – All cans must be filled with pineapple as full as 

practicable without impairment of quality.

4. Drained Weight – The overall average must meet the requirements below

and one half or more of containers must meet the recommended drained

weight. There shall be no unreasonable shortage in the individual

containers.

a. No. 2 cans – The sliced, tidbits, cube, and chunks must have a 

minimum drained weight of 11.7 ounces. The crushed style must be 

regular-pack and must have a minimum drained weight of 12.6 

ounces.

b.

No. 10 cans – The sliced pineapple must have a minimum drained 

weight of 61.5 ounces. The chunks, cube, and tidbits must have a 

minimum drained weight of 65.7 ounces for light syrup and 63.6 

ounces for juice pack. The crushed style must be heavy-pack or solid

pack and must have a minimum drained weight of 78.0 ounces.

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 IX.A 

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 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.
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B. Certification

Subject to (See section IX.A 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 contract shall constitute rejection of such lot.

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. LaboratoryTests

The Contractor must allow 14 calendar 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 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.
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V. Exhibits

Exhibit 1-1

Can Label for Canned Applesauce, No. 10 size

Exhibit 1-2

Can Label for Canned Applesauce, No. 300 size

https://www.choosemyplate.gov/print-materials-ordering/graphic-resources.html
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Exhibit 1-3

Can Label for Canned Apple Slices, No. 10 size

 Add Choose My Plate logo and information here:

Exhibit 1-4

Can Label for Canned Apricots, No. 10 size

 Add Choose My Plate logo and information here:

https://www.choosemyplate.gov/print-materials-ordering/graphic-resources.html
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Exhibit 1-5

Can Label for Canned Apricots, No. 300 size

 

Exhibit 1-6

Can Label for Canned RTP Cherries, No. 10 size

 Add Choose My Plate logo and information here:

https://www.choosemyplate.gov/print-materials-ordering/graphic-resources.html
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Effective Date: March 2018 Page 20 of 31

Exhibit 1-7

Can Label for Canned Fruit Cocktail, No. 300 size

Exhibit 1-8

Can Label for Canned Mixed Fruit, No. 10 size

https://www.choosemyplate.gov/print-materials-ordering/graphic-resources.html
Commodity Specifications Canned Fruit

Effective Date: March 2018 Page 21 of 31

Exhibit 1-9

Can Label for Canned Peaches, No. 10 size

Exhibit 1-10

Can Label for Canned Peaches, No. 300 size

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Commodity Specifications Canned Fruit

Effective Date: March 2018 Page 22 of 31

Exhibit 1-11

Can Label for Canned Pears, No. 10 size

 Exhibit 1-12

 Can Label for Canned Pears, No. 300 size

https://www.choosemyplate.gov/print-materials-ordering/graphic-resources.html
Commodity Specifications Canned Fruit

Effective Date: March 2018 Page 23 of 31

 Exhibit 1-13

 Can Label for Canned Plums, No. 300 size

 Exhibit 1-14

 Can Label for Canned Pineapple, No. 10 size

https://www.choosemyplate.gov/print-materials-ordering/graphic-resources.html
Commodity Specifications Canned Fruit

Effective Date: March 2018 Page 24 of 31

Exhibit 1-15

 Can Label for Canned Pineapple, No. 2 size

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Commodity Specifications Canned Fruit

Effective Date: March 2018 Page 25 of 31

Exhibit 2

Required Markingsfor 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. Freestone, Yellow, 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”)

Recycle symbols and statements can be placed on bottom panels (Exhibit “6” and

“7”).
Commodity Specifications Canned Fruit

Effective Date: March 2018 Page 26 of 31

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
Commodity Specifications Canned Fruit

Effective Date: March 2018 Page 27 of 31

Exhibit 4

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 Grower

 Any Town, CA 99999

STORE IN A COOL DRY PLACE

1 11 07 15001 01434 1
Commodity Specifications Canned Fruit

Effective Date: March 2018 Page 28 of 31

Exhibit 5

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

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

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

PEACHES DICED CUP 96/4.5 100241 7 15001 00241 9 1 07 15001 00241 6

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

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 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-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

PINEAPPLE CAN-24/2 100229 7 15001 00229 7 1 07 15001 00229 4

PINEAPPLE CHUNKS CAN-6/10 100230 7 15001 00230 3 1 07 15001 00230 0

PINEAPPLE CRUSHED CAN-6/10 100231 7 15001 00231 0 1 07 15001 00231 7

PINEAPPLE TIDBITS CAN-6/10 100232 7 15001 00232 7 1 07 15001 00232 4
Commodity Specifications Canned Fruit

Effective Date: March 2018 Page 29 of 31

Exhibit 6

“Please Recycle” Symbol and Statement

PLEASE

RECYCLE
Commodity Specifications Canned Fruit

Effective Date: March 2018 Page 30 of 31

Exhibit 7

“Corrugated Recycles” Symbol and Statement
Commodity Specifications Canned Fruit

Effective Date: March 2018 Page 31 of 31

Exhibit 8

USDA Symbol