Extension to Hold Final Produce Safety Training of 2024 in September
The Produce Safety Alliance (PSA) is set to host its final grower training course of 2024 in September, marking the culmination of a year-long effort to educate produce growers about food safety practices and compliance with the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) Produce Safety Rule.
As part of its ongoing commitment to improving food safety in the produce industry, the PSA has been actively engaging with growers throughout 2024, providing them with the knowledge and tools necessary to meet regulatory requirements and implement robust food safety systems.
This comprehensive training program, which includes both in-person and remote sessions, covers critical topics such as Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs), water management, worker hygiene, and the application of biological soil amendments. Growers who attend these courses will be equipped to reduce food safety risks and protect their business operations.
Attendees of the September training will join a rapidly growing community of over 400 educators who have participated in the Produce Safety Educators Group, a collaboration aimed at enhancing the overall effectiveness of produce safety training efforts.
In addition to the grower training, the PSA also offers a Train-the-Trainer Course, designed to empower educators with the skills to deliver high-quality food safety training to growers. This Train-the-Trainer program has been instrumental in spreading best practices and promoting a consistent national standard for produce safety education.
By providing such extensive training opportunities, the Produce Safety Alliance continues to safeguard the integrity of the produce supply chain and ensure that the highest food safety standards are upheld throughout the United States.
Farming communities are being drawn into these initiatives, as locally-tailored trainings are being planned to address region-specific challenges and meet the unique needs of different producers. As an example, upcoming training events are scheduled for various Florida locations.
This commitment to producer education reflects the PSA’s broader mission to enhance produce safety systems and foster a culture of food safety awareness across the agricultural landscape.