FDA FSMA Produce Safety Rule and Agricultural Water Standards
What the FDA's Food Safety Modernization Act Produce Safety Rule requires for agricultural water — and how continuous wash-water treatment fits in.
The FDA's Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) Produce Safety Rule establishes science-based standards for the growing, harvesting, packing, and holding of produce. Among its core requirements are standards for agricultural water — the water used for irrigation, spray applications, and produce washing.
Agricultural water standards
The rule requires that agricultural water be safe and of adequate sanitary quality for its intended use. Producers must evaluate water sources, maintain water systems, and take corrective action when water quality is compromised.
Wash-water treatment
For packing operations, treating wash water with an approved antimicrobial helps prevent cross-contamination — the pathway behind many produce-linked outbreaks. Continuous treatment maintains effective concentrations as organic load increases during washing.
Practical steps
- Identify all water sources and their uses.
- Monitor water quality and treatment concentrations.
- Keep records of water testing and corrective actions.
See the FDA's official FSMA Produce Safety Rule page for the full regulatory text and current compliance dates.
This article is an editorial summary of publicly available information from the referenced official source. Regulations and guidance change — always consult the official source for the most current requirements.