PLANT CITY, FL - Joining the fight against foodborne illnesses and disease outbreaks within the produce industry, Wish Farms is committing to donate $100,000 to the Center for Produce Safety (CPS). CPS operates with the goal of narrowing any gaps in knowledge in order to prevent future devastating foodborne illness events.
“Foodborne illnesses not only pose a threat to the masses, but to the entire marketplace. When a product is recalled, it causes a ripple effect costing the farmer all the way to the grocery store. It is imperative consumers are kept safe,” Wish Farms Owner, Gary Wishnatzki explained, as someone who understands that ongoing food safety research is crucial. “The Center for Produce Safety facilitates important research benefitting the entire produce industry. By supporting the effort it solidifies Wish Farms’ commitment to food safety.”
Wish Farms’ agreement sees it committing to donating $20,000 annually over the next five years. According to a press release, the money will go towards funding the following:
- Various research projects
- Soil amendments
- Water irrigation
- Animal intrusion
- Wash water sanitation
- Pathogen transfer from food contact surfaces
“We thank Wish Farms for this generous leadership contribution to the Campaign for Produce Safety, especially after the success of CPS's annual Research Symposium,” added Tim York, Chair of CPS Board of Directors and President of Markon Cooperative. “By investing in safeguarding and improving the safety of fresh produce, Wish Farms and other campaign donors are also investing in consumers' confidence that we have their best interests at heart.”
The company believes this investment will assist produce companies, and others along the supply chain, to better understand and control cross-contamination risks and protect public health. And on top of that new knowledge base, the Center for Produce Safety also plans to help young, rising scientists work closely with senior investigators and scientists to inspire them to continue specializing in produce safety research.
Here’s to Wish Farms, the Center for Produce Safety, and advancing food safety in the industry!
