Every farm “covered” by the Produce Safety Rule (meaning they grow, harvest, pack or hold produce that may typically be eaten raw and have average annual produce sales more than $25,000) is now eligible and will get an initial inspection from MDARD by 2026. Initial inspections will focus heavily on identifying any risks and guiding growers to free resources, so food safety improvements can be made before routine inspections start. Inspections encompass your entire farm. We will expect to observe growing fields or greenhouses, harvesting operations, packing operations, holding locations, records, and any equipment or buildings that may otherwise impact produce safety. The focus is on observing your farm in action. A written report will be provided to you following all inspections.
