Can Manufacturers Institute supports labeling bill that will distinguish products manufactured and packaged outside the U.S.

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 Origin Act, known as the American CANS Act.

CMI, as a spokesperson for U.S. food can manufacturers, applaud the American Consumer Awareness of National Origin Act (American CANS Act), “which will provide clear and consistent labeling about the country where each canned food product was harvested and packaged,” said Robert Budway, president of the Can Manufacturers Institute (CMI).

He added: “Ensuring that imported canned foods are properly labeled will allow U.S. consumers to easily distinguish between U.S.-made products and those canned in other countries. Preliminary survey data show that country of origin is an important factor for U.S. canned food shoppers.”

CMI has added that this law will allow U.S. consumers to “make informed choices” about the origin of their food. Consumer choices, based on complete country of origin information, will in turn help support U.S. farmers and food producers, who are critical to the U.S. economy.

The Can Manufacturers Institute (CMI) is the national trade association for the metal can manufacturing industry and its suppliers in the United States. The can industry annually produces approximately 131.6 billion food, beverage, aerosol and other general purpose cans; employs more than 28,000 people in plants located in 33 states, Puerto Rico and American Samoa; and generates approximately $15.7 billion in direct economic activity.