Purpose: To assess knowledge and educational needs of produce growers in the north central region (NCR) of the U.S. for compliance with the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) Produce Safety Rule.
Methods: A two-phase, modified Delphi approach was used to gather information from growers; Round One is presented here. Paper and electronic questionnaires were distributed by educators and organizations (n=30) in 12 Midwest states part of NCR. A five-point Likert rating scale was used to assess current knowledge and educational needs in areas of water testing; biological soil amendments; animal controls; worker health and hygiene; worker training; and equipment, tools, and buildings. A similar scale was used to identify preferred methods of information delivery. Space for comments was available. Comments were independently reviewed by four researchers with consensus reached on identified themes. The questionnaire was reviewed for content validity and clarity by NCR state partners.
Results: Findings indicated respondents (n = 299) were concerned about regulations, on farm best practices pre- and post-harvest, organic standards, and recordkeeping. The top four areas of information needs identified were water and biological soil amendments testing, training, and animal controls. Qualitative data identified concerns with understanding regulations and cost of compliance. Preferred information delivery methods were identified as in-person approaches and use of technology such as online modules and downloadable fact sheets. The use of social media had negative feedback with multiple comments noting this subject matter is too important for this type of technology.
Significance: Although developed for Midwest growers, this validated needs assessment could be used by food safety practitioners in other geographic regions to assess growers’ educational needs and perceived best approaches in delivering information.