Representatives Josh Harder (CA-9) and Derrick Van Orden (WI-3) introduced a bipartisan bill to require clear labeling of canned goods. CMI supports the American Consumer Awareness of National Source, American CANS Act, and issued the following press statement:

“On behalf of the U.S. metal food can manufacturers, we applaud Rep. Josh Harder and Rep. Derrick Van Orden for introducing the American Consumer Awareness of National Source (American CANS) Act, which will provide clear and consistent labeling on the country in which each canned food product was picked and packed,” said Robert Budway, President of Can Manufacturers Institute (CMI).

“Ensuring that imported canned foods are properly labeled will empower American consumers to easily distinguish between products made in America and those packaged in other countries. Preliminary survey data shows that country of origin is an important factor considered by U.S. purchasers of packaged foods. This bill thus will enable American consumers to make informed decisions about where their food comes from. Consumer choices based on full information about country of origin will in turn help support American farmers and food producers, which are critical to the U.S. economy.”

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The Can Manufacturers Institute (CMI) is the national trade association of the metal can manufacturing industry and its suppliers in the United States. The can industry accounts for the annual domestic production of approximately 135 billion food, beverage, aerosol and general line cans; employs more than 28,000 people with plants in 33 states, Puerto Rico and American Samoa; and generates about $15.7 billion in direct economic activity.

Press Contact: Tim Ebner, CMI’s director of communications | Email: tebner@cancentral.com