NEWARK, DE & WASHINGTON, DC - Critical advancements do not just pop up in our industry—it takes dedication, collaboration, and knowledge to uncover opportunities for growth. Such is the reason the International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) united with the National Onion Association (NOA), dry bulb onion industry members, researchers, and government officials to release the second edition of Commodity Specific Food Safety Guidelines for the Dry Bulb Onion Supply Chain.

“Incorporating specific details to onion production and updating scientific literature will help support not only United States onion growers and packers in building and maintaining their food safety programs, but also will educate other individuals working within the onion supply chain including regulators, auditors, and produce buyers who may not be as familiar with onion production and handling practices,” said Gretchen Wall, Director of Food Safety and Quality at IFPA, who organized the update. “Although the document was developed by the U.S. dry bulb onion industry, the fundamentals are broadly applicable, and the document can be adapted for production in other growing regions.”

The updated document builds on the food safety framework and guidance document established by the dry bulb onion industry in 2010, taking into account new scientific findings and the evolution of onion production and handling practices across the U.S.

According to a press release, IFPA and NOA convened a working group in July 2021 who continued to meet in-person and remotely over the course of eight months to provide clarity and context within the greater goals of public health for fresh produce.

“This document represents the best in our industry—the best science, the best practices, and the best intentions to instill confidence in all who eat onions that the U.S. dry bulb onion industry is committed to providing a safe, sustainable product,” said Greg Yielding, Executive Vice President and Chief Executive of the NOA.

To share highlights of the new best practices document, as well as discuss next steps in food safety education, outreach, and research needs for the dry bulb onion industry, IFPA and Extension professionals engaged in food safety research for onion production and handling will host a webinar. The webinar is free to attend and will take place on October 18, 20222, from 2 to 3 p.m. ET.

“The first edition published in December 2010 was insightful, and the updated document reflects a collaborative effort from all facets of the industry to best represent onion production and ensure that growers have access to the education necessary to minimize risks during growing, packing, and shipping,” said Kay Riley, former NOA President, member of the working group for both editions, and retired onion grower at Snake River Produce.

Click here to register for the webinar.

Stay tuned to ANUK for the latest industry updates.

International Fresh Produce Association National Onion Association