Flooding is the uncontrolled overflowing of a field with water, creating significant food safety risks from pathogens, sewage, chemical contaminants, and debris. Use the resources below to ensure the safety of your crops, your land, and your workers.
Download Local Guidance
This guide, titled “Flooding and Farm Food Safety in Hawaiʻi,” was developed by the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa’s College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resilience (CTAHR) to help local growers navigate the food safety risks associated with flood events.
The document provides essential protocols for protecting both short-term crop safety and long-term farm viability. Key topics covered include:
- Identifying Adulterated Crops: Clear definitions of when a crop is considered "adulterated" under federal law and must be kept out of the human food supply.
- Contamination Risk Management: Guidance on managing pathogens, heavy metals, and chemical contaminants introduced by floodwaters.
- Farm Remediation: Practical steps for soil recovery, including recommended wait times for replanting and how to evaluate upstream contamination sources.
- Preventing Cross-Contamination: Instructions on maintaining buffer zones, sanitizing equipment, and protecting workers.
- Organic Certification Maintenance: Information for organic producers on how flooding impacts their certification status.
Download PDF: Flooding and Farm Food Safety in Hawaiʻi
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