International Produce Training

In collaboration with Southeast Produce Council, International Produce Training recently completed a produce inspection training class, from May 19-20, 2010. This two day class was the first of a four day training event. The second part of the training class is scheduled for October 6-7, 2010.

The participants were comprised of a cross-section of the produce industry, representing growers, shippers, wholesalers and buyers.  Arriving from Canada to Florida the group offered many varied opinions on their inspection procedures, their contract specifications, but they all shared a common goal of trying to improve their inspection program and to learn and understand the official USDA inspection procedures.  With the cost of USDA inspection fees continuing to rise many buyers and shippers are settling their own disputes, if product arrives not meeting their company specification.  The training class allowed the attendees an opportunity to adapt their inspection program to the USDA’s inspection program.

The inspection training course was geared towards explaining the USDA inspection procedures and terminology to everyone attending.  Much of the time was devoted to reading and understanding the various U.S. Grade Standards, their tolerances and grade requirements.  Each class was followed up with a hands-on grading exercise, where specific defects were identified and inspection procedures and cutting procedures were demonstrated.  The commodities covered in this class included:  Sweet Peppers, Potatoes, Blueberries, Lettuce, Strawberries, Table Grapes and Sweet Corn.  Having such a diverse group allowed for an open exchange of ideas and past experiences. 

If you would like to host a training event like this one, or you would prefer your own training class for your own employees, feel free to contact International Produce Training to reserve a date.