The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) is offering two upcoming online trainings to VAFMA members and non-members.
March 16, 2020 from 11:00 am to 12:30 pm:
VDACS Food Safety Program Overview and Food Handler Best Practices at the Farmers Market
Speakers: Meagan Musick, Food Technical Specialist, VDACS & Dr. Renee R. Boyer
Professor/Extension Specialist, Department of Food Science and Technology
This presentation will provide an overview of producing food products to sell at the farmers market. It will cover when a food inspection is required, how to obtain an inspection, and the exemptions from inspection that are in the Virginia Food Laws. Additionally, it will also touch on the applicable laws and regulations, industrial hemp, and food labeling.
The presentation will also cover how to prevent selling contaminated foods at the market by 1) Fostering good health and hygiene practices, 2) Cleaning and prevention of cross contamination, 3) Holding hot/cold foods at proper temperatures, 4) Ensuring foods are cooked to the correct temperature, and 5) Ensuring foods sold originate from safe sources. Additionally, it covers some of Virginia Cooperative Extensions’s resources available for markets.
March 26, 2020 from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm:
The Produce Safety Rule, Exemptions and Market Requirements
Speaker: Erik Bungo, Program Supervisor for the newly established Produce Safety Program at VDACS
These webinars are free but registration is required.
