What's Happening?
The University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) will host a free Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) and Introduction to the Produce Safety Rule Training on Saturday, December 12, 2026. The eight-hour course,
offered by the Plant Science Food Safety Group at the University of Maryland, UMES Extension, and the Maryland Department of Agriculture, will take place at the UMES Research, Extension and Teaching Farm in Princess Anne, Maryland. This training is open to all fruit and vegetable producers, regardless of their growing methods, including conventional, aquaponic, hydroponic, mushroom, microgreens, or controlled environment agriculture (CEA). The primary goal of GAP training is to educate producers on minimizing the risk of cross-contamination of their produce with human pathogens. Upon successful completion of the course, attendees will receive a certificate from the Maryland Department of Agriculture Food Quality Assurance Program, which is essential for an operation to become GAP certified after an MDA audit.
Why It's Important?
GAP certification is increasingly becoming a mandatory requirement for wholesale and institutional buyers, making this free training crucial for Maryland's fruit and vegetable producers. By equipping farmers with the knowledge and practices to ensure food safety, the program helps them meet market demands and expand their sales opportunities. Minimizing the risk of pathogen contamination not only protects public health but also safeguards the reputation and economic viability of agricultural businesses. For small and medium-sized farms, especially those utilizing diverse growing methods, access to free, high-quality training like this can be a significant advantage, reducing financial barriers to compliance and market access. The collaboration between academic institutions and state agricultural departments underscores a concerted effort to support the agricultural community and enhance food safety standards across the state.
What's Next?
Fruit and vegetable producers interested in attending the free training on December 12, 2026, are required to register through Eventbrite. A certificate of completion, issued by the Maryland Department of Agriculture Food Quality Assurance Program, must be held by a principal of the operation for it to achieve GAP certification. This annual certification process, which includes an MDA audit, is vital for producers aiming to sell to wholesale or institutional markets. The ongoing availability of such training programs will be essential for maintaining high food safety standards and ensuring the competitiveness of Maryland's agricultural sector.
Beyond the Headlines
The emphasis on Good Agricultural Practices reflects a broader national trend towards increased food safety regulations and consumer demand for safely produced food. This training not only addresses immediate compliance needs but also fosters a culture of food safety within the agricultural community. The inclusion of various growing methods, from conventional to hydroponic and microgreens, highlights the evolving landscape of agriculture and the need for comprehensive safety protocols that adapt to new technologies and practices. Furthermore, the requirement for GAP certification by buyers indicates a shift in market dynamics, where food safety is no longer just a recommendation but a critical component of market access and business sustainability. This initiative contributes to building a more resilient and trustworthy food supply chain in the U.S.
