Food Safety Training for Farmers’ Market Vendors

Originally written by Debbie Roos

N.C. Good Farmers’ Market Practices is a new NC Cooperative Extension program developed to educate farmers’ market managers and vendors about measures to minimize food safety risks. The training focuses on Good Farmers’ Market Practices (GFMPs). On Monday, March 25, 2013, Chatham County Family and Consumer Science Extension Agent Phyllis Smith, M.Ed., RD, LDN, will conduct training for farmers’ market managers and vendors who will be responsible for implementing the practices that will help minimize risks when it comes to the safety of products sold and practices at farmers’ markets. The program will be held at the Chatham County Agriculture Building Auditorium in Pittsboro (65 East Chatham St. Pittsboro, NC 27312)from 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm. The program is FREE.

The presentation will provide information to enhance the safety of products sold and practices at farmers’ markets across North Carolina. These efforts are being carried out to protect the farmers’ market sector by increasing good food safety practices and reducing the risk of food-borne illness outbreaks. Considering the increasing popularity of markets, a focus on safety of food products sold protects farmers, patrons, and local economies. Market managers and vendors are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity to learn more from this food safety at farmers’ market presentation.

Although there isn’t a charge for the program, pre-registration is requested. Pre-register for the Good Farmers’ Market Practices training by emailing extension.programs@chathamnc.org (put “GFMP workshop” in the subject line) or by calling 919-542-8202.

 

North Carolina State University and North Carolina A&T State University commit themselves to positive action to secure equal opportunity regardless of race, color, religion, creed, national origin, sex, age, disability, or veteran’s status. In addition, the two Universities welcome all persons without regard to sexual orientation. North Carolina State University, North Carolina A&T State University, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments cooperating.

 

Persons with disabilities and persons with limited English proficiency may request accommodations to participate by contacting Sam Groce, County Extension Director, at 919-542-8202 or in person at the County Extension Office at least 14 days prior to the event.