June is the unofficial food safety month for the California Almond industry. As almond processors prepare for compliance, Almond Board of California (ABC) is providing training for Preventive Controls Qualified Individuals (PCQI), who develop and implement food safety plans and are responsible for Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) Preventive Controls compliance in processing facilities. The first training session is being held June 1–3, and additional workshops will be scheduled based on interest. ABC also hosts its annual Food Quality and Safety Symposium, which highlights advancements in food safety technology. This year, the symposium is focused on FSMA as a theme, with presentations providing critical information for both growers and handlers.
For growers, Dr. Linda Harris of UC Davis provides guidance on conducting an Almond Risk Assessment, which is the backbone of a food safety plan. Elizabeth Fawell, with the consulting firm Hogan Lovells, walks growers and processors through which rules apply for growers, huller/shellers, handlers and custom processors.
For information on these essential food safety events, contact Jayme Puthoff at the Almond Board by email or phone (209) 343-3279.
Presentations from this year’s and previous Food Quality and Safety Symposiums can be found at online.
