First published in January 2016, the FSMA Produce Safety Rule sets the minimum standard for safe harvesting of fresh fruits and vegetables. The rule covers several aspects of farm production including:
- water management (both for production and post-harvesting)
- Soil & fertilization processes
- Sanitation of equipment & tools
- Worker health & hygiene to prevent food contamination
- Packaging and warehousing
Does the Produce Safety Rule Apply to my Farm?
Certain farms do not fall under the regulation. You may be excluded from this rule if:
- The produce you grow is rarely consumed raw (i.e. asparagus, kidney beans, cocoa beans).
- The produce you grow is used for personal or on-farm consumption.
- Your farms annual average revenue for produce sold (over the course of 3 years) is less than $25,000.
- Your farm appropriately reduces microorganisms and is commercially processed (certain documented assurances must be met and written disclosures must be made).
The produce safety rule covers many aspects from the initial steps of growing to harvesting, packing and warehousing. To learn more about the regulation and how to be FDA compliant, speak to our qualified food safety specialists.
Contact us today:
"*" indicates required fields