Growth of local food systems: a review of potential food safety implications.
2015
Wright, K. G. | Sirsat, S. A. | Neal, J. A. | Gibson, K. E.
In the USA, local food markets account for a growing share of agriculture production and with this growth come unique food safety challenges. Even though consumers often perceive local foods as safer and more wholesome, there is no evidence that local food products would be less prone to contamination with foodborne pathogens, especially since local foods generally receive less government oversight both at the federal and local levels. This paper reviews the history and growth of direct marketing venues for local food commodities and the food safety issues that have been identified or that could arise with increased growth. In addition, the current knowledge related to food safety education and outreach at local food outlets is discussed. This review concludes that, if left unaddressed, the role of local food commodities as vehicles of foodborne pathogens may become more significant and that food safety training and education that is specific to personnel (i.e. market managers, vendors, farm-to-school buyers) in direct-marketing venues is integral for the protection of public health, specifically consumers of local food commodities.
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