FSMA News
Learn more about on-farm best practices at our series of workshops Tuesday (15th) & Thursday (17th) in January at the Ag Trade Show. Come find us with your FSMA, Food Safety, and GAP questions. All are welcome!
Workshop I: 9-10am: #FSMAFacts—What You Need to Know About the Produce Safety Rule
Join Leah Cook and the Department of Agriculture, Conservation & Forestry to learn what’s required by FSMA’s Produce Safety Rule, how it affects you, and who qualifies for which exemptions. Bring your questions and your creativity—we’ll help you navigate the law and access the free resources that can help you be confident AND compliant!
Workshop II: 10-11am: FSMA’s Produce Safety Rule vs GAP—A Side by Side Comparison
The Food Safety Modernization Act is a mandatory federal Rule. Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) Audits are a voluntary certification. Both require planning and paperwork and come with costs and opportunities. Come to this session to learn how their rules and requirements compare, and how you can streamline your planning and on-farm systems for both.
Workshop III: 1-2pm: Bridging the GAP—Opening Markets and Managing Risks with USDA GAP Audits
Curious about Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) Audits and how they work? Leah Cook of the Department of Agriculture, Conservation & Forestry and Linda Titus of Ag Matters will explain how the USDA GAP Audit program works, what Leah’s inspectors will look for, and solutions to common farm challenges. They will share real costs, real benefits, and the free resources available to help you prepare.
For more information contact: Leah Cook at (207) 764-2100 or leah.cook@maine.gov.
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