Purpose: The objective of this study were to (i) develop harmonized, science-based recommendations for farmers and to (ii) work together with farmers and processors to support implementation and assessment of these recommendations, and training for continuous improvement.
Methods: Current literature on Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs) and microbiological risk mitigation was reviewed, including peer-reviewed publications and guidelines and standards from governments, certification bodies, and NGOs. In parallel, farm visits were performed in different regions of the world, in order to convert these theoretical requirements into easily understood and implementable recommendations.
Results: A visual training booklet was developed, illustrating the best practices to follow in order to reduce the microbiological risk coming from seven routes of contamination. This booklet focuses on how to fulfill the requirements, which is often missing in generic guidelines. It provides new information that is not available elsewhere, such as a risk ranking of agricultural water according to water source and type of application. This booklet, which is available in several languages, is supplemented by posters and an assessment tool.
Significance: The usefulness and practical applicability of the booklet and its accompanying tools have been validated by berry farmers and processors in different global regions and acknowledged by National Food Safety Agencies. It provides very practical tools to ensure compliance with GAPs at the farm level and, thus, lowers the public health burden linked to fresh and frozen berries.