Agricultural Produce Safety Improvement Program (APSIP)

Overview & Goals:

The Agricultural Produce Safety Improvement Program (APSIP) supports produce operations that are looking to improve their on-farm food safety practices that help minimize the risk of microbial contamination and food-borne illnesses. In addition, by implementing these practices the goals of the Program is to meet regulatory requirements under the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) and to increase competitive market access by meeting buyer demands for demonstrated practices that work towards protecting public health and food safety.

Eligible Projects:

Practices that help prevent or reduce on-farm food safety risks on produce farms.

Examples include:

• Water systems, delivery, treatment devices, processing and washing equipment
• Portable restrooms and/or hand washing sinks (mobile or stationary)
• Harvest & storage equipment (bins, totes, bin storage, racks)
• Packing shed walls, ceilings, and light fixtures
• Drainage systems for coolers and washing & packing areas
• Wildlife fencing; Pest deterrent
• Refrigeration/Cooling Equipment
• Pesticide storage

Eligible Applicants:

Operations that grow, harvest, pack, or hold produce as defined by 21 C.F.R. § 112 and that are principally and substantially engaged in the business of production agriculture or farming for commercial purposes under M.G.L. c. 128, Section 1A.

Maximum Funding:

• Maximum funding per applicant is 80% of total project costs up to $40,000.
• A minimum cash match of 20% of the total project costs is required.

Deadlines:

• Deadline extended from May 8th, 2020 to June 19th, 2020. Applications must be received by 4:00 PM on Friday, June 19th, 2020.
• Contract end date is June 30th, 2021 with no options for extension.