The Center for Produce Safety (CPS) is launching 14 new research projects totaling more than $3.3 million to address critical food safety challenges in the fresh produce industry. The projects, which are set to begin in January 2025, are led by investigators from eight states in the U.
S. and Mexico. CPS’s latest research efforts focus on key issues such as flood setback distances, brush sanitation, and the coexistence of plants and animals, with a specific emphasis on pathogens like E.
coli O157, Salmonella, Cyclospora and hepatitis A. “These research initiatives were made possible by the generosity of industry contributors to CPS’s Campaign for Research and grants from the Specialty Crop Block Grant Programs in California, Florida, Texas, and Washington. Their support is essential for CPS to continue funding science, finding solutions, and driving change in produce safety,” said Joe Pezzini, chair of CPS’s board of directors and senior director of agricultural operations for Taylor Farms.
The projects were selected through CPS’s annual call for research proposals, which addresses the most pressing scientific needs in the produce industry. To ensure the research aligns with industry priorities, proposals were carefully reviewed and refined by CPS’s Technical Committee and other experts. The projects are expected to be completed within one to two years, and findings will be shared with the industry through CPS’s annual Research Symposium and other channels.
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