This fact sheet provides information on Good Agricultural Practices, recognized practices intended to prevent the microbial contamination of fresh produce, and how these practices apply to purchasing and growing local food products for farm to school activities.
This fact sheet outlines a number of additional resources for those seeking to directly purchase or raise food products for school nutrition programs.
"Food Safety Frequently Asked Questions: The Food Safety Modernization Act and its Impact on Farm to School Activities": This document includes common questions related to food safety when purchasing locally grown and raised food products directly from producers as well as food safety considerations for edible campus gardens.
This mock recall resource provides instruction on how to practice conducting a school district-wide recall of fresh produce.
Handling fresh produce on salad bars includes information for preparation and set up, temperature control, supervision and clean up.
Information about handling fresh produce in classrooms, for both school nutrition staff and teachers and aids.
Use this information to determine if a potential or current supplier is a reputable source of fresh produce for your school nutrition program.
Child Nutrition program operators may want to visit a farm before purchasing produce. During a visit, you can observe and ask questions about produce handling and food safety practices.
Information about food safety issues in school gardens. Includes topics such as site selection, materials, and water use; chemical and fertilizer use; compost and manure use; growing and harvesting produce; using school garden produce in your school meals program and addressing community donations.
Best practices associated with handling fresh produce in schools, including information on purchasing and receiving, washing and preparation, hand hygiene, serving, and storage of fresh produce. Also includes recommendations for specific fruits and vegetables.