Many growers seek information about food safety and Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs).  Food safety management using GAPs can be utilized by growers to protect their businesses, broaden marketing opportunities and prepare for regulatory impacts of the Food Safety Modernization Act.  Understanding scientific principles of produce food safety risks and control measures using GAPs can assist growers in implementing successful GAPs programs in their operations.

WSU offers a three-part workshop series to introduce GAPs food safety principles and assist growers with assessment of operational food safety practices.  The goal of the workshop series is to assist growers with adoption of food safety practices and prepare for third-party certification.

Session I provides science-based information from a multi-disciplinary group of scientists and extension faculty.  Standard Session I workshops will be offered in 2012 (January-February).

This workshop on November 7, 2011 is an expanded Session I workshop focusing on providing current research-based information from scientists throughout the United States.  Producers are encouraged to capture this opportunity to hear nationally-recognized speakers and reserve seats in follow-up Sessions II and III.

Session II (offered in March 2012) provides opportunities to discuss GAPs implementation and challenges with WSU faculty and other growers.  Participants are encouraged to assess their farms and food safety practices prior to the session.  Opportunities to work on GAPs documentation will be offered in Sessions II and III.

Session III (offered during the 2012 growing season) will also provide opportunities for producers to observe a GAPs third-party certification process.

For more information contact: