Commercial Item Descriptions (CIDs) are product descriptions that concisely describe the most important characteristics of a commercial product. CIDs are official U.S. Government procurement documents that are 1) uniquely numbered in a Federal series; 2) prominently dated for easy reference; and 3) appropriately titled (according to current Federal labeling policies).

CIDs are prepared by food technologists and nutritionists. Each CID undergoes review every five years, or when the market dictates. When CIDs are reviewed, they are revised to include changes to the product’s type or style, and other pertinent information. Each CID is reviewed by manufacturers and other food service professionals to test their validity. If a CID is no longer in use by the food industry, it is canceled.

In cooperation with the food industry, Federal/State agencies, and other food service professionals, USDA gathers product information including common ingredients and buyer requirements before developing and finalizing a CID.