As discussed above, in the November 27, 2015, Federal Register, FDA
published a final rule establishing science-based minimum standards
for the safe growing, harvesting, packing, and holding of produce,
meaning fruits and vegetables grown for human consumption. FDA
established these standards as part of its implementation of the
FSMA. These standards do not apply to produce that is rarely
consumed raw, produce for personal or on-farm consumption, or
produce that is not a raw agricultural commodity. In addition,
produce that receives commercial processing that adequately reduces
the presence of microorganisms of public health significance is
eligible for exemption from the requirements of this rule. The rule
sets forth procedures, processes, and practices that minimize the
risk of serious adverse health consequences or death, including
those reasonably necessary to prevent the introduction of known or
reasonably foreseeable biological hazards into or onto produce and
to provide reasonable assurances that the produce is not
adulterated on account of such hazards. In addition, FDA has made
available for public review the Final
Environmental Impact Statement and Record of Decision for these
standards. Final rule is effective January 26, 2016.
Compliance date for this rule is November 27, 2017, with later
compliance dates for small and very small
farms.
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.
