By Sarah Vaile, Research Attorney, Farm Commons The Technical Assistance Network , otherwise known as “TAN,” are the people over at FDA whose job it is to help you understand the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA). But, what if I tell you that the guidance TAN offers is not legally-binding? You may be surprised, but it’s … Read More
Author: aferris
FSMA Readiness: Physical and Chemical Risks
By Liza Ayres, LFSC Intern, National Farmers Union Farming inevitably presents produce safety risks, but increased knowledge and action can help farmers reduce liabilities and maintain successful operations. Previous blogs in this series explained the biological risks that can occur due to bacterial growth or other pathogens, but because food safety hazards can take a … Read More
FSMA Readiness: Produce Safety Risks from Parasites
By Jake Stukenberg, LFSC Intern, National Farmers Union After discussion of bacteria and viruses we’ll be wrapping up the types of biological hazards that the FSMA Produce Safety Rule covers today. The third type of pathogen that the Produce Safety Rule aims to reduce is parasites. Parasites are protozoa or intestinal worms that can only … Read More
FSMA Readiness: Produce Safety Risks from Viruses
By Jake Stukenberg, LFSC Intern, National Farmers Union When it comes to produce safety, much of the risk is caused by things a grower could never see with the naked eye. Last week we talked about the risks bacteria pose to produce and strategies to reduce the risks associated with them. This week we’re moving … Read More
FSMA Readiness: Produce Safety Risks from Bacteria
By Jake Stukenberg, LFSC Intern, National Farmers Union As we mentioned last week, produce safety risks can come in many different forms on a farm. Farmers must be aware of these risks and work hard to minimize them. With knowledge, education, and action, a farmer can take easy steps to reduce risk on their operation. … Read More
FSMA Readiness: What are Produce Safety Risks?
By Jake Stukenberg, LFSC Intern, National Farmers Union Regardless of a farm’s size or scale, food safety is a priority on every operation. All farmers have an obligation to provide the safest product possible, and while many may think their current practices are sufficient in preventing foodborne illness, there is always new information or research … Read More
USDA Announces New Microloan Program
By Brittany Jablonsky, NFU government relations representative Last week the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced a proposed rule for a new microloan program within the existing Farm Service Agency’s (FSA) operating loan program. FSA proposes to offer annual or term microloans of up to $35,000 that feature a streamlined application process and less stringent requirements … Read More