Who Should Attend:

Fruit and vegetable growers and others interested in learning about produce safety, Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs), co-management, and the FDA's proposed Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) Produce Safety Rule would benefit greatly from this training. Additionally, any growers who would like to meet the proposed Produce Safety Rule requirement outlined in §112.22(c): "At least one supervisor from the farm must complete food safety training at least equivalent to the standardized curriculum recognized by the FDA." Note: Completion of this course is a regulatory requirement for all Kentucky fruit and vegetable growers with over $25,000 in yearly sales and those growers seeking a Qualified Exemption.

Topics to be Covered:

• Introduction to Produce Safety
• Worker Health, Hygiene, and Training
• Soil Amendments
• Wildlife, Domestic Animals, and Land Use
• Agricultural Water
• Postharvest Handling and Sanitation
• How to Develop a Farm Food Safety Plan

In addition to learning about produce safety best practices, key parts of the FSMA Produce Safety Rule requirements are outlined within each module. There will be time for questions and discussion, so participants should come prepared to share their experiences and produce safety questions.

Benefits of Attending the Course:  

The course will provide a foundation of Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs) and co-management information, FSMA Produce Safety Rule standards, and details on how to develop a farm food safety plan. Individuals who participate in this course are expected to gain a basic understanding of: 

• Microorganisms relevant to produce safety and where they may be found on the farm  
• How to identify microbial risks, practices that reduce risks, and how to begin implementing produce safety practices on the farm  
• Parts of a farm food safety plan and how to begin writing one  
• Expectations in the FSMA Produce Safety Rule and how to meet them.  

After attending the entire course, you will be eligible to receive a certificate from the Association of Food and Drug Officials (AFDO) that verifies you have met the requirement of section §112.22(c) (detailed above). To receive an AFDO certificate, you must submit the appropriate paperwork to your trainer at the end of the course.