Which FSMA provision addresses the safety of produce grown or harvested?

• A. Produce Safety Standards
• B. Transportation
• C. Intentional Adulteration Standards
• D. Foreign Supplier Verification Program

Answer: (A)

The on-farm safety practices for growing and harvesting produce are governed by the Produce Safety Standards. This rule sets science-based requirements for growers and handlers of fruits and vegetables to prevent contamination from the field through initial packing and holding, covering areas like agricultural water quality, soil amendments, worker training and hygiene, facilities and equipment, and packing-house practices. It is specifically focused on how produce is grown, harvested, and initially handled to keep it safe for consumers.

Other FSMA rules address different stages or aspects of safety—for example, transportation rules cover safe movement of food in commerce, the Intentional Adulteration Standards address protecting against deliberate contamination, and the Foreign Supplier Verification Program ensures imported foods meet safety standards. These do not target the on-farm safety practices of growing and harvesting produce.