Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) Audits

Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) audits are voluntary audits that verify that fruits and vegetables are produced, packed, handled, and stored to minimize risks of microbial food safety hazards. GAP audits verify adherence to the recommendations made in the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s  Guide to Minimize Microbial Food Safety Hazards for Fresh Fruits and Vegetables (pdf) and industry recognized food safety practices.  In 2021, USDA  performed GAP audits in 50 states, Puerto Rico, and Canada, covering over 90 commodities.

GAP Program Updates

GAP Audit Services Include:

USDA GAP Program Resources

How to Request an Audit

  • Determine what type of audit you need.  For example, your customers may require a Harmonized GAP audit or, if you grow mushrooms, you might need a Mushroom GAP (MGAP) audit. (see list above)
  • Complete the Request for Audit Service Form SC-237A
  • Next select the office closest to the facility that needs to be audited, from the list of Local Specialty Crops Inspection Division audit offices. For non-domestic audits, please contact the national office using the information below, under “Contact Information
  • Email or fax your completed Audit Request Form to the office that you selected.
  • The office will contact you and confirm the receipt of your request, give you more information about the program procedures, and schedule your audit.
  • Complete the SC-430 Vendor Form and submit according to the form completion instructions
  • Complete an Agreement for Participation in Audit Services form SC-651 and submit it to your auditor or to the contact below, via email or fax.

Find a USDA GAP-Certified Company:

Additional Resources