EUREP-GAP

In responds to the demands of consumers, retailers and their global suppliers, a series of specific farm certification standards by sector have been created and implemented. The goal is to ensure integrity, transparency and harmonisation of global agricultural standards. This includes the requirements for safe food that is produced, respecting worker health, safety and welfare, environmental and animal welfare issues.

Barnes Farming Corp. was honored to be the first company to received EUREP-GAP certification for sweet potatoes in the USA.

EUREP-GAP certification is based on Safe and Sustainable  Good Agricultural Practice (GAP), essential elements for the development of best practices for the global production of horticultural products. It defines the minimum standard acceptable for the leading retail groups in the European Union (EU), however, standards for some individual retailers and those adopted by some growers may exceed those described.

GAP is a means of incorporating Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and Integrated Crop Management (ICM) practices within the framework of commercial agricultural production. Adoption of IPM/ICM is regarded by EUREP (EU Retailers Produce Working Group) members as essential for the long-term improvement and sustainability of agricultural production.

Barnes Farming Corp. received its EUREPGAP approval from an independent verification agency SCS (Sientify Cetifications Systems) as representative of CMI Plc.

Find out more by going to the EUREPGAP website

CCOF Organic .

The Organic Certification from CCOF (California Certified Organic Farmers),                  covers 150 acres of sweet potatoes. The certification is based on application review, field history to verify that no chemical sustances have been applied on the soil for at least 3 consecutive years, chemical residues soil test are caried to assure chemical free land. Exclusive storage facilities to prevent any crossover contamination from conventional product, Food Safety guide lines in place and recorded.

Find out more by going to the Organic Certification website