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ASEAN GAP International GAPs Workshop Materials |
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Introduction Recent developments in postharvest horticulture have highlighted the need for exporting countries to pay due diligence in the field of food safety and Quality Assurance (QA). These requirements have been cemented by Codex Alimentarius through the "farm to fork" approach. This is a stringent QA based system that covers many aspects of fruit and vegetable growing starting at choice of production sites, soil preparation, agricultural inputs and harvesting and ending at storage requirements and transport (Codex Alimentarius Commission Report, Twenty-fourth session, Geneva, 2-7 July 2001). Codex deliberations on judgment of equivalence, which is needed to establish Mutual Recognition Arrangements (MRA) for fresh produce, have also considered relevant elements in production sub-systems. This stringent QA system, for the safe production of fruit and vegetables, is generally guided by a standard known as Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs). There is a need for producing countries to fully understand these trade requirements and to implement standards that cover at least the basic requirements for a food safety-based QA plan. This should cover both microbiological issues and chemical contaminating issues addressing pesticide residues and maximum residue limits (MRLs) applicable to the country with due regard to potential export market requirements. GAP requirements also make reference to environmental considerations, social issues and quality issues. It is important to address these with full consideration to geographical location, climatic and weather conditions, cultural and economic issues. The problem facing the smaller exporting countries at present is that strong importing countries like the EU are emphasising their own standards on exporters because there are no others in place. EU standards may not be suitable for developing countries involved in tropical and subtropical horticulture; due to differences in climate and environment. Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) requirements suggest that good agricultural practices be designed for specific geographical regions and take into consideration the social needs of that specific region. It is important for countries to consider their options to equivalency requirements. GAPs specific for a region will be sufficient to cover food safety aspects at all stages of farming operations from pre planting, planting, growing, harvesting, storage and transport. QA systems based on food safety can also assist with quality issues including postharvest quality. |
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