GroupGAP

For certification, the group itself is listed as a certified entity and each grower within the group is listed individually as being certified as part of the larger group....

By Kenneth Petersen, Chief, Audit Services Branch, Specialty Crops Inspection Division
April 18, 2016
2 minute read

For certification, the group itself is listed as a certified entity and each grower within the group is listed individually as being certified as part of the larger group. These listings will be found on the AMS audit services webpage alongside the traditional GAP certification listings.

The value of GroupGAP ultimately hinges on buyer acceptance of this food safety certification. The USDA is already working with many different buyers in the retail and foodservice communities to promote GroupGAP and all of the food safety audit-based programs offered. The school lunch program and other USDA commodity purchase programs already accept GroupGAP certification.

For grower-shippers, the new GroupGAP Certification Program streamlines the audit process, making USDA GAP food safety certification accessible. By meeting the GroupGAP requirements, group members are creating a strong food safety system that satisfies their buyers, and creates success by opening doors to new, larger, and more stable and lucrative markets.

For buyers, GroupGAP provides assurance that grower groups are following accepted food safety best practices. Look for GroupGAP-certified producers who can increase your supply of, and meet consumer demand for, a greater diversity and quantity of fresh, local products.

On April 3, 2016, AMS began accepting applications to take part in the new GroupGAP Food Safety Certification Program. For at least the 2016 calendar year, participation in the program will be restricted to domestic groups. If you represent a group of international producers, please contact AMS to discuss your interest in the program for 2017 and beyond, so the agency can consider how to best meet your needs in coming years.

We look forward to serving producers of all sizes with our new GroupGAP Certifi-cation Program. For more information visit www.ams.usda.gov/groupgap, call (202) 720-5021 or email groupGAP@ams.usda.gov.

 

Kenneth Petersen is Chief of the Audit Services Branch of the USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service Specialty Crops Inspection Division. Petersen helps lead the joint USDA/FDA GAPs Review Project and has represented the USDA on the Produce GAPs Harmonization Initiative and Global Food Safety Initiative’s Global Markets for Primary Production protocol. He began his USDA career in 1999 as an agricultural commodity grader in Philadelphia, PA.

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