The March – April 2023 issue of the Food Protection Trends (FPT) from the International Association for Food Protection features the article Fresh Produce Harvesting Equipment ─ A Review of Cleaning and Sanitizing Practices and Related Science.
This peer-reviewed article investigates the best practices for routine cleaning and sanitation of food-contact and adjacent areas of harvesting equipment. With an increased need for mechanical support in crop harvesting due to labor shortages, risk awareness and vigilance around sanitation best management practices and sanitary design is even more important than before.
The information provided offers guidance based on scientific research and publication reviews: “As part of the produce industry’s continuous efforts to enhance the safety of harvested fresh produce crops, this review summarizes scientific findings that harvesting equipment operators can utilize to evaluate and further inform current cleaning and sanitation practices.”
This is a valuable resource for anyone who manages growing and harvesting operations or who is working to innovate agricultural harvest equipment. Susan M. Leaman et al. describe the key considerations for the sanitation of equipment: “Three features of equipment that have an impact on a pathogen’s ability to persist are the design, construction materials, and surface cleanability.”
To read the article, visit
WGA cares about food safety in our industry and food safety at home. If you have any concerns about food safety compliance or your organization’s food safety plan, please contact Sonia Salas at [email protected].