Massachusetts Agricultural Food Safety Improvement Program (AFSIP)

The Agricultural Food Safety Improvement Program (AFSIP) supports produce and aquaculture operations that are looking to improve their food safety practices that work towards minimizing the risks of microbial contamination and food-borne illnesses while increasing market access. In addition, by implementing these practices the goals of the Program is to meet regulatory requirements under the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) and to increase competitive market access by meeting buyer demands for demonstrated practices that work towards protecting public health and food safety.

Eligible Applicants

• Produce operations that grow, harvest, pack, or hold produce as defined by 21 C.F.R. § 112 and that are principally and substantially engaged in the business of production agriculture or farming for commercial purposes under M.G.L. c. 128, Section 1A.

• Aquaculture farmers as defined by M.G.L. c.128, Section 1A, currently licensed, who raise a marine or aquatic species intended for human food.

Eligible Projects

Practices that help prevent or reduce on-farm food safety risks on produce or aquaculture farms.

Produce Examples: 

• Water systems, delivery, treatment devices, processing and washing equipment

• Portable restrooms and/or hand washing sinks (mobile or stationary)

• Harvest & storage equipment (bins, totes, bin storage, racks)

• Packing shed walls, ceilings, and light fixtures

• Drainage systems for coolers and washing & packing areas

• Wildlife fencing; Pest deterrent

• Refrigeration/Cooling Equipment

• Pesticide storage

Aquaculture Examples: 

• Ice Machines

• Insulated Containers

• Walk-in refrigeration units

• Processing equipment 

• Facility Upgrades

• Refrigerated vehicle 

• Maximum funding per applicant is 80% of total project costs up to $40,000.

• A minimum cash match of 20% of the total project costs is required.

• Agricultural Food Safety Improvement Program (AFSIP) - Request for Response (RFR)