The fresh produce sector has adopted rigorous, science-driven standards, epitomized by a self-funded enforcement model and data-sharing program to ensure lettuce safety, with broad applications. Despite changes in food safety oversight and research funding, U.S. lettuce safety is independently regulated.
According to Tim York, CEO of the California Leafy Greens Marketing Agreement (LGMA), the ability to self-impose food safety mandates is essential given the complexity of the produce supply chain. The LGMA, a self-funded coalition, implements standards that exceed FDA regulations to manage outbreaks and recalls. Dr. Max Teplitski, chief science officer at the International Fresh Produce Association, notes, "LGMA has been an impactful effort. Here's an example of a program the industry put in place, knowing full well it will be expensive." Compliance costs have doubled, averaging $53,128 per hectare.
LGMA standards are specific, measurable, and verified through self-funded audits by the California Department of Food and Agriculture. These audits are funded by LGMA member assessments, avoiding conflicts of interest. LGMA mandates are applied across row crops, impacting overall food safety practices. A USDA study confirms that firms prefer using LGMA standards across all production.
California LGMA members, alongside a similar program in Arizona, cover 98% to 99% of state production, representing 90% to 94% of national production, equating to over 55 billion servings of leafy greens annually. Despite minimal risks, the category is associated with foodborne illness incidents. York emphasizes the importance of understanding outbreaks to prevent future occurrences.
A loophole exists as some small growers cannot afford LGMA compliance. York states, "The remaining 1% to 2% of non-LGMA members are small independent growers primarily that are primarily simply not capable, quite frankly, of adhering to our metrics." These growers often operate on a smaller scale, making compliance economically unfeasible.
Ensuring the supply chain restricts purchases to LGMA-certified products is challenging yet vital. LGMA collaborates with major retailers and food service operators to align food safety standards. The FDA develops general standards, but LGMA emphasizes risk-based specificity due to environmental variables.
LGMA continues to advance water standards, recognizing water as a vector for pathogens. The Romaine Test and Learn program, inspired by aviation safety models, analyzes pathogen tests to set new safety benchmarks. York notes, "It's like finding a needle in the haystack" when addressing testing requirements.
Source: Forbes