Harvest cleanliness for better crops

By Andi Anderson

Midsummer is the perfect time for produce growers to review their cleaning and harvesting procedures to minimize the risks of foodborne illnesses and maximize their farm efficiency.

Teresa Wiemerslage, a field specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, highlights key points for consideration in a recent article for the Acreage Living Newsletter.

The Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) Produce Safety Rule requires producers to clean and sanitize all food contact surfaces, equipment, and tools as frequently as reasonably necessary.

Additionally, producers must inspect and maintain non-food-contact surfaces of equipment and tools used during harvesting, packing, and holding to protect against contamination of covered produce.

The article provides proactive steps farmers should take to ensure food safety, including maintaining basic hygiene, proper restroom use, and keeping harvest totes, packaging, vehicles, and equipment clean. Keeping good records is also emphasized.

“The easiest way to keep your packhouse clean is to keep the dirt out,” said Wiemerslage. “The practices you use in the field can either increase or decrease the amount of cleaning you need to do at the end of the day.”

Wiemerslage also explains the importance of maintaining a cleaning and sanitization log. The article offers sample logs and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to help producers implement effective cleaning routines.

By following these guidelines, produce growers can ensure they are compliant with federal food safety regulations while also improving the overall efficiency of their farming operations.

Taking the time to review and update cleaning and harvesting procedures can have a significant impact on reducing the risk of contamination and maintaining high standards of food safety on the farm.

Producers interested in learning more about these procedures and accessing the sample logs and SOPs can find additional information in the Acreage Living Newsletter. This resource provides valuable insights and practical tips for farmers committed to maintaining the highest levels of food safety and farm productivity.

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