The updated national cantaloupe and netted melon best practices guidance document and supporting appendices are now available. The previous version of the document was released in March 2013, and this latest update reflects current practices, stakeholder input and ongoing industry efforts to support produce safety through practical, prevention-focused approaches.
The effort to initiate the update began in April 2024, with drafting activities starting in June 2024. While the initial drafting process took a few months, the overall project also included extensive stakeholder review, an open comment period, revisions and the development of appendices intended to provide more detailed and practical information on specific topics. The main document covers growing, harvesting, cooling, packing and transportation of whole cantaloupe and netted melons.
Now that the guidance and appendices have gone through a review process and are finalized, they have been posted to our website and are available for use by anyone interested in implementing or referencing these best practices.
As part of this effort, we are currently developing training materials and will be hosting a pilot project planned for September 2026. This pilot project is intended to support education, outreach and practical implementation of the updated guidance.
We also remain interested in collaborating with both domestic and international organizations and stakeholders to help advance the use and understanding of these best practices moving forward.
If you are interested in learning more about the pilot project or future education and outreach efforts, please feel free to contact Sonia Salas at [email protected]
Updated guidance documents and appendices are available here: