Path B Enhancement of NM Department of Agriculture's Produce Safety Program.

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PROJECT ABSTRACT This Funding Opportunity provides for the enhancement of the State Produce Safety Programs to ensure the safe production of fresh fruits and vegetables and to enforce compliance with the requirements of FDA's Regulation “Standards for the Growing, Harvesting, Packing, and Holding of Produce for Human Consumption” (referred to as the Produce Safety Rule). While many states may not have sufficient resources on their own, participation in and funding through this grant opportunity provides the resources to implement and maintain a viable, aligned regulatory program contributing to a reduction of foodborne illnesses, microbiological hazards and a nationally integrated food safety system. The New Mexico Department of Agriculture (NMDA) is eligible to apply for this Cooperative Agreement, Path B. Over the course of this five-year cooperative agreement, the NMDA will work with the FDA continuing with the mantra “educate before and while you regulate”. The NMDA will further develop our infrastructure and capacity to operate a Produce Safety Program in New Mexico. The programs focus will continue with education, outreach and technical assistance for growers and regulators. Verification and development of the programs farm inventory will continue to main focus while enhancing the programs capabilities to share meaningful data with the FDA and other jurisdictions. NMDA will also continue to develop and refine a regulatory Produce Safety Inspection, Compliance and Enforcement Program under FDA authority, to the satisfaction of FDA.