CEA Alliance releases updated food safety guidelines for leafy greens, herbs
The CEA Alliance updated its food safety guidelines for leafy greens and herbs to reflect new science and regulations, including traceability and water rules. The second edition builds on the widely used 2023 version.
Key takeaways
- CEA Alliance released a second edition of its food safety guidelines
- Updates reflect new research and regulatory requirements
- Original 2023 version was the group’s most downloaded resource
The CEA Alliance has released a second edition of its commodity-specific food safety guidelines for leafy greens and herbs, reflecting new research and regulatory changes.
The updated document builds on the original 2023 publication, incorporating developments in traceability requirements and agricultural water standards. Monica Noble, chair of the Alliance food safety working group and vice president of quality and food safety at 80 Acres Farms, said understanding of risks and mitigation strategies in CEA systems has advanced quickly, prompting the revisions.
The first edition became the most downloaded resource in the Alliance’s history, reaching growers, retailers, researchers and regulators globally. The new version updates recommendations based on current science and regulatory frameworks, according to the organization.
Tom Stenzel, executive director of the CEA Alliance, said the revision reflects extensive collaboration among members and external experts, including leadership from Food Safety Strategy.
The second edition is available through the CEA Alliance’s Resources page here.
FAQ
Q: What is the CEA Alliance updating?
A: Its commodity-specific food safety guidelines for leafy greens and herbs.
Q: Why were the guidelines revised?
A: To reflect new research and evolving regulations, including traceability and water standards.
Q: When was the first version released?
A: The original document was published in 2023.
Q: Who contributed to the update?
A: Alliance members and Food Safety Strategy led the effort.
Q: Where can the guidelines be found?
A: On the CEA Alliance website.
What this means
The update signals continued regulatory alignment and growing maturity in food safety practices within controlled environment agriculture.