Basics of Good Agricultural Practices

The specific GAPs steps are outlined in detail in the “Good Agricultural Practices Self Audit Workbook” developed by Cornell University. GAPs principles can be summarized as follows: clean soil, clean water, clean hands, and clean surfaces. Examples of applicable procedures are listed below. These principles must be applied to each phase of production (field selection, pre-plant field preparations, production, harvest, and post-harvest) to be effective.

“Clean soil” involves taking steps to reduce the possibility of introducing microbial contaminants into the soil, particularly via manure and other animal excrements. GAPs address the need to properly compost, apply and store manure. Additionally, the exclusion of domesticated animals from production fields is essential in helping to reduce the possibility of faecal contamination. Taking steps to minimize the presence of wild animals in fields is also important.

“Clean water” entails making sure all water used in washing, cooling and processing is of drinkable quality. Packing ice should also be made from drinkable water. Ground and surface water sources need to be protected from runoff and animal contamination. Water used for irrigation and foliar applications also needs to be free of human pathogens. Regular water quality testing may be necessary, particularly for surface water sources.

“Clean hands” applies to workers and the use of good personal hygiene in the field and packing house. Providing washing facilities for customers at U-Pick operations is also an important consideration.

“Clean surfaces” means ensuring that all packing bins, work surfaces, storage areas, and transportation vehicles are properly washed and sanitized on a regular, often daily, basis. Farm equipment should also be routinely cleaned and sanitized. An essential aspect of GAPs procedures is accurate record keeping. While keeping records is an important part of any farm operation, it can become critical in cases of food safety issues. When food-borne illnesses do occur, attempts are made to trace the contamination back to the point of original. Growers who document their GAPs procedures will be able to provide evidence that their farm is an unlikely source of the outbreak.