Minnesota produce growers are invited to take a one-day training course to meet the requirements for the Produce Safety Rule, which is part of the new federal Food Safety Modernization Act, according to a press release. Under FSMA, fruit and vegetable farmers that grow, pack, harvest and/or hold produce and that do not qualify for an exemption or exclusion from the Produce Safety Rule are required to attend this training.

In addition, any growers interested in learning about produce safety, Good Agricultural Practices and the FSMA Produce Safety Rule are encouraged to attend and will gain valuable knowledge to help them protect their business, help meet market requirements such as a GAP audit, and keep the local food supply safe.

“We are excited to offer the FSMA Produce Safety Rule Grower Trainings at a low cost for attendees,” said Valerie Gamble, manager of the Minnesota Department of Agriculture’s Produce Safety Program. “Instructors include our own Minnesota farmers, University of Minnesota Extension educators, and the MDA Produce Safety Program staff.”

To learn if your farm is covered by the rule, view the Coverage and Exemptions/Exclusions Flow Chart or contact the MDA’s Produce Safety Program at 651-539-3648.

See a list of scheduled training courses at www.mda.state.mn.us/fsmatraining. The courses are a joint offering of the Minnesota Department of Agriculture and the University of Minnesota Extension.