Researchers led by Jinru Chen, Ph.D., of the University of Georgia, are using an anonymous survey to better understand current cleaning and sanitation methods used on blueberry harvest containers and mechanical harvesters.

Based on the survey results and with the help of a cranberry industry advisory board, the researchers hope to identify cleaning and sanitizing practices that can be further validated in the field and in a laboratory setting.

Chen said the results of the project, "Assessment of Blueberry Harvest Food Safety Challenges," should have widespread applications. “Harvest bins and harvesting machines are not only used to harvest blueberries, but other fresh produce as well,” he said. "The information will help growers and packers improve their cleaning and sanitation practices and produce safe fruit for the fresh market."

Chen joins Renee Holland, a UGA area extension agent for commercial blueberries, and Wei Qiang Yang, Ph.D., an Oregon State University district berry extension agent. "Wei and Renee are both blueberry extension agents and have close contact with blueberry growers," Chen said. "They have built strong trust with local producers and their roles in the project are extremely important."

The researchers are currently in the middle of the survey in person and online. The survey asks growers about their production scales, harvesting methods, and cleaning and sanitation practices for harvest containers and mechanical harvesters.

After completing the survey and receiving input from the advisory board, the researchers plan to mimic key cleaning and sanitation practices in the laboratory and determine the effectiveness of the practices in removing microbial build-up and biofilm in materials used to make containers. harvesting and mechanical harvesters.

About CPS

This research is supported in part by the Center for Produce Safety, a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization. CPS is a collaborative association that leverages the combined expertise of industry, government, and the scientific and academic communities to focus on providing the research necessary to continually improve food safety. This level of collaboration enables CPS to fill food safety knowledge gaps and address both research priorities and immediate industry needs.