5. Domesticated & Wild Animals

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Domesticated rabbit (Jari Sugano, 2016).

Both domestic and wild animals pose a food safety risk because they can carry human pathogens like Salmonella, E. coli O157:H7, and Campylobacter jejuni in feces which can be spread as they move or via

runoff. Risks can be minimized if farms prevent animal entry, remove attractants like standing water, and monitor and document animal activity with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) / Logs, remember to do field assessments before harvest, and ensure workers are trained in regards to animal activity.

Proper compliance of practices is crucial for the safety and success of your farm. For more information and educational materials, watch the video below or visit Cornell University’s GAPs and Cornell University’s Produce Safety Alliance. Once you’ve familiarized yourself with this topic, you can move on to others!

Informative videos on the GAP topics provided by Carolina Farm Stewardship Association