Salmonella prevalence and food safety risks in small-scale farms (SSF) and their products sold in farmers markets

The overall objective of this proposal is to evaluate the microbiological profile and associated food safety risks of animal products and produce sold at the farmers markets in California. The specific objectives are: 1) Characterize and describe California farmers markets. Describe the range of products being sold, regulations governing vendors, required hygiene practices, and facilities available at the markets; 2) Characterize post-harvest and distribution practices (e.g., worker hygiene, refrigeration, transport methods) among SFF farmers selling animal products at northern California and Central Valley farmers markets; 3) Evaluate the prevalence of Salmonella spp. in animal products (i.e., poultry meat, meat) and produce, as well as the concentration of generic E. coli on produce sold at farmers markets in northern California and in the Central Valley.