Controlled environment agriculture (CEA) is a unique food production system with its own food safety risks and considerations.

The CEA Alliance, in cooperation with the International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA), has released an updated version of its “Commodity Specific Food Safety Guidelines for Controlled Environment Agriculture” guide focused on leafy greens and herbs. The Second Edition updates the original document that was posted in 2023.

Topics covered in the guidelines include:

• An overview of the U.S. CEA industry
• Regulatory requirements
• A systems approach to risk management
• Worker health and hygiene
• Sanitary facility and equipment design
• Proper handling of inputs and raw materials
• Water inspection, treatment, and testing
• Lot management and traceability
• Transportation considerations.

The guide can be downloaded and read in full here.