Discover the Impact of New CANS Legislation on Local Food Products: What You Need to Know!

On February 13, Rep. Josh Harder introduced a new law called the American Consumer Awareness of National Source (American CANS) Act. This bipartisan bill aims to help shoppers easily identify local products and support local farmers. It requires that food labels clearly show where the product is made, especially for canned goods. This way, shoppers won’t have to guess if they’re buying local or foreign products.

The Central Valley is known as a major producer of fruits and nuts, providing 25% of the nation’s food supply. Stockton was once home to some of the largest canneries in the country. However, many canning plants have closed due to competition and economic challenges, like when Seneca Foods shut down its peach canning plant in Modesto in 2018, putting hundreds out of work. Right now, it’s hard for shoppers to know if their canned items are from local farms or imported.

Rep. Harder emphasized, “Families should know if they’re buying peaches from nearby or from far away.” His bill aims to combat the influx of imported goods by making it easier for consumers to choose local products and support nearby farms.

Matt Strong, President and CEO of Pacific Coast Producers, a cooperative of over 150 family farmers, expressed appreciation for the law. He stated, “The American CANS Act helps inform consumers, schools, and healthcare facilities about where their food comes from.” This clarity is vital for families and communities.

In 2023, Valley farmers produced impressive amounts of fruits and vegetables: 25,300 tons of peaches, 1,140 tons of pears, 16,800 tons of apples, 3,050 tons of apricots, and a staggering 912,000 tons of tomatoes. This production contributed over $176 million to the local economy and supports around 34,000 jobs. Rep. Harder believes that knowing where food comes from is crucial to sustaining these jobs and the local farming industry.