This Division conducts fruit and vegetable inspections as well as third party food safety audits known as Good Agricultural Practices/Good Handling Practices (GAP/ GHP) audits. All inspections and food safety audits are provided statewide to farms, packers, and wholesalers. The GAP/GHP audits are voluntary independent audits of produce suppliers throughout the production and supply chain.
GAP/GHP audits focus on best agricultural practices to verify that fruits and vegetables are produced, packed, handled, and stored in the safest manner possible to minimize risks of microbial food safety hazards. The audits verify adherence to the recommendations made in the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s Guide to Minimize Microbial Food Safety Hazards for Fresh Fruits and Vegetables and industry recognized food safety practices.
Farmer Stock Peanuts must be inspected, and a grade issued per lot in order for the farmer to receive payment at the point of sale. The Federal/State Inspection Program Division grades the peanuts brought to buying points in the state.
USDA-GAP/GHP Food Safety Audits are offered to all Growers, Packers, and Wholesalers in the State and can be used as a marketing tool for companies looking to expand into new markets.
MDAC administers the GAP/ GHP Cost-Share Program to reimburse farmers for 75 percent of the cost (up to $750) incurred to obtain the GAP/GHP food safety certification.
Fruits and Vegetables Forms
Contact:
Vivian Purvis
Supervisor
Vivian@mdac.ms.gov
P.O. Box 1609
Jackson, MS 39215
Phone: (601) 359-1111
Fax: (601) 359-1175