Penn State Extension to Host FSMA Produce Grower Certification Course

MEADVILLE, Pa. — Penn State Extension will offer a course 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.

“Food Safety Modernization Act: Produce Grower Certification Training” will take place on Feb. 19, from 8 a.m.-5 p.m., at the Penn State Extension Crawford County, 1099 Morgan Village Rd., Meadville, Pa. 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 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 his or her trainer at the end of the course.

Cost of the course is $40. Register by Feb. 14. For details and registration, visit http://extension.psu.edu/fsma-grower-training or call 877-345-0691.