Results

• The difference between audits and inspections

  Published on March 16, 2017
  As fresh produce growers learn about the Food Safety Modernization Act, many are confused by the difference between a food safety audit and an on-farm produce safety inspection.

• Turbidity in post-harvest wash water: Monitor and change when needed

  Published on March 16, 2017
  Excessive turbidity may hamper efforts to effectively maintain sanitary post-harvest wash water. Keep monitoring this very important post-harvest wash component.

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  Don’t wait for the water to clear regarding FSMA water testing requirements

  Published on February 1, 2019
  Take the time to learn and align your current practices with those currently finalized in the Food Safety and Modernization Act Produce Safety Rule water section.

• Is GroupGAP an option for your farm?

  Published on August 8, 2016
  With GroupGAP, growers can get certified under the same GAP Certification, a fit for some groups of growers. Check these significant considerations first.

• Practical pointers around submitting water samples for food safety

  Published on May 10, 2017
  Water sampling to meet federal on-farm food safety guidelines can be confusing. This article helps eliminate some confusion about taking and submitting a water sample.

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  Water system food safety inspections

  Published on February 11, 2019
  There are several concerns regarding a water system inspection from a food safety perspective and compliance to the Food Safety Modernization Act Produce Safety Rule.

• Compost use and FSMA compliance: What does FDA mean by compost?

  Published on May 3, 2017
  How does the FDA define composting and its use in fresh produce with regards to the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA)? Let’s clarify the definitions used by the FDA in FSMA.

• Annual septic system inspections help ensure a passing food safety audit

  Published on May 11, 2016
  A properly working sewage treatment system on the farm is critical to preventing contamination in the fields adjacent to it and essential in passing a food safety audit.

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  Water system mapping for food safety

  Published on February 20, 2019
  Though not required by the Food Safety Modernization Act Produce Safety Rule, a water system map can be very helpful in an inspection. Here are some key features to include in a water system map.

• Using Google Docs to create digital records

  Published on June 6, 2016
  The potential for digital record keeping of food safety data is now easier than ever. Here are some basic considerations for creating a digital recordkeeping system in Google Docs.

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  Consider the risks associated with animal intrusion in fields before harvest

  Published on November 4, 2019
  Learn more about the risks associated with the three main types of animal intrusion a grower may find during a preharvest wildlife assessment.

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  Industry-specific produce safety guidelines

  Published on May 1, 2019
  Industry-specific produce safety guidelines, usually more rigorous than basic produce safety standards, only exist for a few crops. Learn which crops have them and how to answer audit questions when your crop doesn’t have them.

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  Agricultural water versus indirect water

  Published on March 29, 2016
  The Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) regulates irrigation water testing in growing fresh produce and what water needs to be tested. Recent changes have been made that can make a difference in the amount of testing required of growers.

• First aid kits prevent produce contamination

  Published on June 6, 2016
  First aid kits are necessary on produce farms. When it comes to food safety, have first aid supplies ready.

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  What is considered a farm under the FSMA Produce Safety Rule?

  Published on June 18, 2018
  The Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) Produce Safety Rule defines a farm by its activities of growing, harvesting, packing or holding crops. Let’s explore some of the small but challenging aspects of that very simple definition.

• On-farm food safety documentation: How much is enough?

  Published on May 3, 2017
  Knowing how much documentation is necessary to prove practices were done can be difficult to figure out. Here are considerations when trying to determine how much is enough.

• Having the right grower training for FSMA compliance

  Published on October 13, 2016
  As a fresh produce grower, are you getting the right training to be Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) compliant? Find out if your training will meet FSMA requirements.

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  Ask the right questions before choosing a water testing lab for food safety

  Published on March 29, 2016
  When choosing a water testing lab to determine surface water quality to comply with food safety laws, consider asking the lab these key questions before choosing.

• Some food hubs are not qualified end users under the FSMA Produce Safety Rule

  Published on October 9, 2017
  Many growers think they are eligible for a qualified exemption under the Food Safety Modernization Act Produce Safety Rule because they sell to a food hub. A recent response from the FDA says this may not be the case.

• Do you have a plan to reduce risks from wildlife in your produce fields?

  Published on May 11, 2016
  When wildlife comes in contact with fruit and vegetable production areas, the risk of foodborne illnesses increases. If growers are to mitigate some of the risk posed by wildlife, they need a plan.