On-Farm Food Safety
Food safety is a priority for farms and food processors of all sizes. In recent years, it has become even more important as federal food safety laws have been established to regulate the agricultural community.
The Produce Safety Rule, outlined in Section 105 of the FDA Food Safety and Modernization Act (FSMA), establishes science-based minimum standards for safe production and harvesting of fresh fruits and vegetables. These standards are based on a foundation of Good Agricultural Practices.
University of Idaho Extension, in partnership with the Idaho State Department of Agriculture and other Pacific Northwest land grant universities, is working to meet the education and outreach needs of both large and small scale produce growers and processors across Idaho. Funding through grants and partnerships has enabled Extension to offer significant new resources to Idaho producers.
Faculty members across the state are trained and certified to teach FDA-approved Produce Safety Alliance courses and conduct on-farm readiness reviews (OFRRs) prior to possible inspection.