Wisconsin Ag Connection - DATCP to Start Inspecting Wisconsin Produce Farms

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DATCP to Start Inspecting Wisconsin Produce Farms
Wisconsin Ag Connection - 02/20/2019

Through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture will begin inspecting produce farms for compliance with federal food safety regulations this year. The inspections are part of the FDA Food Safety and Modernization Act's Produce Safety Rule to better protect public health by focusing food safety efforts on prevention of foodborne illnesses.

"Implementing the Produce Safety Rule for Wisconsin has required additional resources, training, and education for our staff and the industry," said DATCP Produce Safety Supervisor Shawn Bartholomew. "Starting these inspections will be a major milestone as Wisconsin's fresh fruit and vegetable industry align with nationwide food safety requirements."

While inspections for large produce farms will begin this year, inspections for smaller produce farms will start in 2020.

Meanwhile, growers with annual produce sales of more than $500,000 were required to complete a special training course prior to last year's growing season. Those who sell between $250,000 to $500,000 must take the course before the 2019 season. All other producers will need to complete the training by 2020.

Throughout the implementation, DATCP will continue to provide education and training to help produce growers implement nationally standardized food safety practices.

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