In January 2002, USDA AMS formally implemented the USDA Good Agricultural Practices & Good Handling Practices (GAP&GHP) audit verification program. This voluntary program is offered to the fruit and vegetable industry to verify an operation’s efforts to minimize the risk of contamination of fresh fruits, vegetables, and nuts by microbial pathogens. The program does not guarantee the product is free from microbial contamination, but verifies the participant has taken proactive measures to reduce the risk of contamination by adhering to generally recognized industry best practices. The responsibility for product safety and the continued observance of best practices rests with the operation producing and handling the fresh product.
Program News
- AMS has updated the USDA GAP checklist. Version 3.0 of the checklist becomes effective August 1, 2022. The Part 6 – Distribution Center has been removed and Part 7 - Preventive Food Defense Procedures has been moved to Part 5.
- USDA Announces Good Manufacturing Practices Audit for Produce Distribution Centers
- The USDA Good Agricultural Practices & Good Handling Practices (GAP&GHP) audit has been renamed the USDA GAP audit.
USDA GAP Checklist
Version 3.0 of the USDA GAP checklist must be used for any audits performed after July 31, 2022.
Program Resources
- GAP&GHP Audit Verification Program User’s Guide (pdf)
- GAP Audit Program Scope (pdf)
- GAP Audit Billing Policy (pdf)
- GAP Audit Uploads
- GAP Program Logo
Additional Resources
- FSCSC Program – Reimbursement for Food Safety Certification
- FDA Site - Guidance for Fresh Produce
- FSMA Produce Safety Rule Fact Sheet
- Produce Safety Alliance
- On-Farm Food Safety Project
Contact Information
For additional information, please contact:
- Telephone: (202) 720-5021
- Fax: (866) 230-9168
- Email: SCAudits@usda.gov