Penn State Extension to Host FSMA Produce Grower Certification Course

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — PennState Extension will offer a course with in-person and online options to help produce growers meet food safety rules as outlined in the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA), administered by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

“Food SafetyModernization Act: Produce Grower Certification Training” will take place in-person and virtually on Tuesday, Nov. 7, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m., and online on Wednesday, Nov. 8, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

The course will provide a foundation of knowledge about Good Agricultural Practices, co-management of natural resources and food safety, FSMA Produce Safety Rule requirements and how to develop a farm food safety plan.

Instruction will be provided in several modules: introduction to produce safety; worker health, hygiene and training; soil amendments; wildlife, domesticated animals and land use; agricultural water; and postharvest handling and sanitation.

Participants will be eligible to receive a certificate from the Association of Food and Drug Officials (AFDO) that verifies they have completed the training. To receive a certificate, a participant must be present for the entire training and submit the appropriate paperwork to their trainer at the end of the course.

The cost of the course is $35. For details and registration, click here or call 877-345-0691.