Food safety is a complex issue and differences of opinion and a degree of confusion exist about regulations and certifications. The overall approach to risk in our society and the impacts of regulations on small producers and on biodiversity are three issues of great concern for local food systems. Whatever your views on these issues are, we at HCFS strongly suggest that you as a producer, marketer, or buyer be proactive in becoming knowledgeable about the principles and practices of food safety. In light of this, we are listing here some key sources of information on the topic.
HCFS Booklet: Food Safety Considerations for Small Producers and Those Who Support Them — Proactive ways to cope with and improve problematic regulations. Also see the accompanying Online Resources for links to food safety information.
Food Safety and GAP Information: Cornell University’s extensive website on training, web links, curriculum, and more.
Food Safety, Biodiversity and Wildlife: Resources from the Wild Farm Alliance on how to avoid unnecessary detrimental impacts on wildlife and biodiversity of the farm and still produce food safely.
Influence Food Safety Policy: Visit the National Sustainable Ag Coalition website to stay abreast of opportunities to comment on and influence food safety regulations including the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA).
