We partner with the University of Minnesota (UMN) Extension program to offer both classroom and on-farm training opportunities related to produce safety. These educational opportunities help farmers understand and comply with regulations and best practices for food safety.
Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) Produce Safety Rule Grower Trainings
Our FSMA Produce Safety Rule Grower Training courses provide in-depth information about the requirements of the federal Produce Safety Rule. Farms that are covered by the rule are required to have at least one supervisor or responsible party from their farm complete training that uses FDA-recognized curriculum or equivalent. This course meets those requirements. Anyone interested in learning the details of the Produce Safety Rule is welcome to attend, including employees or representatives from those farms that are excluded or that qualify for an exemption from the rule. Visit our FSMA Produce Safety Rule Grower Training page for more information.
On-Farm Readiness Reviews
Farmers who have participated in a Produce Safety Rule Grower Training are eligible to request an On-Farm Readiness Review. This is free and voluntary opportunity to do a farm walk-through with outreach staff from the MDA Produce Safety Program and the UMN Extension educators, to discuss how the Produce Safety Rule applies to your operation. Visit our On-Farm Readiness Review page for more information.
Events
The Produce Safety Program will be participating in the following events. Stop by with any questions about our program or the Produce Safety Rule.
We are always looking for new opportunities to engage with produce farmers directly. If you’d like us to present at an upcoming gathering or share resources, please contact us.
Partnerships
We partner with various farming and local food-related organizations across Minnesota to better serve Minnesota’s diverse farming communities. If you are part of a grower network and want to explore collaboration, we would love to hear from you.
