FORT MADISON, Iowa – More than 400 unionized Pinnacle Foods workers voted to strike in protest of the company’s plan to eliminate pensions.

Members of the United Food and Commercial Workers International Union (UFCW) voted Jan. 6 to authorize the strike. Many UFCW members have retirement plans through pension benefits, according to the union.

“In a volatile financial environment, Pinnacle Foods workers in Fort Madison are simply trying to protect middle class jobs and their retirement benefits after working hard to make their company profitable,” said Darin Boatman, UFCW Local 617 president. “I hope this strike vote sends a strong message to the company and moves the negotiation process to a successful conclusion.”

The Fort Madison plant manufactures canned food products, including Vienna sausages, Armour brand corned beef hash, beef stew and chili.