Arkansas Produce Safety Events & Trainings

Join the University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service's Produce Safety Team to learn about new practices and regulations for fruit and vegetable producers. Contact Dr. Amanda Philyaw Perez with questions, phone: 501-671-2228.

Jump to the Upcoming Events & Trainings section below to reserve your spot today!

Produce Safety Grower Trainings

What topics will be covered?

Topics covered will include: agricultural water, soil amendments, worker health and hygiene, wildlife management, postharvest handling, and food safety plans.

Who should attend?

For fresh produce farms, FDA’s Food Safety Modernization Act Produce Safety Rule sets mandatory federal standards for growing, harvesting, packing, and holding produce.

Most produce farms will be affected by this Rule. Growers need to attend a training to learn about new regulations impacting the produce industry and will receive a certificate of completion which satisfies the FDA requirement for training. This training, developed by the Produce Safety Alliance (PSA) and presented by the University of Arkansas Extension Service, will help growers understand the new requirements, and will provide the information needed to comply with the Produce Safety Rule. 

When are the trainings?

In-Person Trainings: Workshop participants are encouraged to arrive by 8:00 a.m. The workshop will include snacks, lunch, and beverages. The program will conclude by 5:00 p.m. 

Remote Trainings: The remote workshop is held over two days, starting at 8:00 a.m. and ending at 12:30 p.m. on both days. Participants must attend both days to receive the training certificate.

Other Trainings: Please see event information for time/location details.

What is the cost to attend?

In-Person Trainings: The in-person training is $25/person and open to the public; however, space is limited.

Remote  Trainings: The remote training is $25/person for in-state (within Arkansas) and $100/person for out-of-state (outside Arkansas) and open to the public; however, space is limited and preference will be given to Arkansas farmers.

Other Trainings: Costs will vary depending on the program. These trainings are open to the public; however, space is limited.

Select the links below for additional information and registration:

2023 Produce Safety Grower Training Schedule

October 2023 In-Person Training -- Final training for 2023!

Location: Pauline Whitaker Animal Science Center (Fayetteville, AR)