USDA Proposes National Leafy Greens Marketing Agreement

By Greenhouse Grower staff|April 28, 2011

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) is requesting comment on the creation of a voluntary National Leafy Green Marketing Agreement (NLGMA) that would assist all segments of the leafy green industry in meeting commercial food quality and safety requirements.

To reflect the different climates, production practices and markets handling leafy green produce, USDA is proposing that there be eight regional zones represented on the board. Representatives from these zones, appointed by the Secretary of Agriculture, would form a board to manage the agreement. The board would include 26 representatives – 12 handlers, 10 farmers (at least two of which must be small farmers), one importer, one retailer, one food service representative and one member of the public.

“This proposed agreement and governance structure provides an opportunity for farmers, handlers and retailers of all sizes to work together and develop a practical program,” says
Agriculture Deputy Secretary Kathleen Merrigan. “We are striving to create a voluntary program so that all types of farmers and handlers can more effectively comply with quality and food safety requirements.”

Visit the AMS website at www.ams.usda.gov for more information on this proposal.