GAPs is a voluntary program that verifies the safe growing, handling, packing, and/or holding of produce. Produce growers must participate in a food safety or safe food handling program with annual on-site audits such as the USDA Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs) or Good Handling Practices (GHP) certification (or another third-party food handling practices program with annual audits deemed GAPs- or GHP equivalent by the Commissioner) for admission into the New York State Grown & Certified program. The steps needed to become GAPs-certified include:
- Attend a GAPs training (optional, but recommended);
- Develop a farm food safety plan;
- Implement practices and acquire documentation; and
- Complete a third-party audit program.
GAPs Related Links:
- Learn more about GAPs and how to become GAPs Certified.
- Brochure on GAPs (includes information on the GAPs Reimbursement Program)
- Upcoming GAPs Trainings-
- List of upcoming trainings in New York State
- Produce Safety Alliance Grower Trainings (includes domestic and international trainings)
- Additional GAPs Resources and Programming-
- National
- New York State (search for your county and region)