Path B Implementation of a State Program in West Virginia to Enhance Produce Safety in Compliance with the FSMA Produce Safety Rule Using Program

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West Virginia Department of Agriculture Cooperative Agreement Program to Implement a National Produce Safety Program PAR-21-174 Summary / Abstract To minimize human illnesses and deaths related to the consumption of contaminated produce, the West Virginia Department of Agriculture (WVDA) will continue to implement and enhance state compliance with the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA). The Produce Safety Rule, 21 CFR Part 112, establishes standards for the Growing, Harvesting, Packing, and Holding of Produce for Human Consumption. We propose the WVDA, in conjunction with West Virginia State University Extension (WVSU) and West Virginia University (WVU), will work together to integrate and implement a produce safety program for the state of West Virginia. The WVDA will follow Program Path B and conduct produce safety inspections under the FDA’s authority. West Virginia currently does not have sprout growers that are covered, however, should a grower become covered, WVDA will complete all necessary training and conduct sprout inspections. The WVDA will complete program objectives 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, & 7. This will include activities related to the assessment and planning of the program; statewide produce program administration; education, outreach, and technical assistance; state farm inventory; an inspectional program; a compliance and enforcement program; and response to produce related activities. The WVDA will partner with two agencies to ensure adequate training and outreach may be provided to growers in West Virginia. The WVDA will provide subawards to WVSU Extension and WVU Extension which shall provide staff to complete Produce Safety Alliance (PSA) trainings, a lead trainer for the PSA curriculum, write produce safety related articles for agricultural publications, and host West Virginia Food Safety Training Team meetings. West Virginia University Extension will additionally provide staff to complete On Farm Readiness Reviews (OFRRs) and Writing your Farm Food Safety Plan training courses. West Virginia has the demonstrated infrastructure and experienced personnel to complete the objectives outlined in this proposal. The activities will enhance the produce safety program of the state and support the coordinated efforts toward a national integrated food safety system.