Yes No

Same as above

Yes No

Yes No

Date: Time: 

Date: Time 

Mailing/Business Address

Beginning

Ending 

United States Department of Agriculture

Agricultural Marketing Service

Specialty Crops Program

Specialty Crops Inspection Division

AUDIT INFORMATION

Distribute Audit Report to*(if known):

*Supplying names of retail and food service buyers is not mandatory, however it is useful to know in the event the buyer requires USDA-AMS to send a 

copy of the audit report directly. No audit results are sent to a 3rd party without the written consent of the auditee. 

Date & Time of Audit

Field Office:

Auditor Name(s):

Street: 

Fax Number: 

Commodities Covered by Audit: 

Commodities Produced During Audit: 

Total Acres Covered by Audit: 

Is this company currently subject to the Produce Safety Rule (21 CFR Part 112)?

Company uses USDA GAP Logo on packaging or marketing materials?

Description of Operation: 

Harvest Company Name (if applicable):

Other Contractors: 

E-Mail Address: 

Total Square Feet Covered by Audit: 

OTHER INFORMATION

Person(s) Interviewed:

Audit Requested by:

AUDITOR INFORMATION

USDA Good Agricultural Practices

Audit Verification Checklist

This program is intended to assess a participant’s efforts to minimize the risk of contamination of fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts 

and miscellaneous commodities by microbial pathogens based on the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s “Guide to Minimize 

Microbial Food Safety Hazards for Fresh Fruits and Vegetables,” and generally recognized good agricultural practices.

Phone Number: 

AUDITEE INFORMATION 

Company Name: 

Street: City, State, Zip: 

Multiple sites covered by this audit? (If Yes, provide details in Additional Comments)

Audit Location Address GPS (Optional): 

City, State, Zip: 

Federal Account Number: 

Company Contact: Contact Title: 

For Official Government Use Only

USDA, AMS, SCP, Specialty Crop Inspection Division 

August 1, 2022

 Version 3.0
Yes No

Yes No N/A

Yes No N/A

Yes No N/A

Yes No

General Questions (All audits must begin with and pass this portion)

Logo Use Addendum..................................................................................................................

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

Part 4 – Storage and Transportation..................................................................................................

Did the auditee participate in GAP training?

Is there a map that accurately represents the farm and/or facility operations?

Does the company have more than one packing facility?

Is there a floor plan of the packing house facility(s) indicating flow of product, storage areas, cull areas, employee break rooms, restrooms, 

offices? 

Is any product commingled prior to packing?

Audit Scope: (Please check all scopes audited)

Part 1 – Farm Review.................................................................................................................

Part 5 – Preventive Food Defense Procedures.......................................................................................

Part 2 - Field Harvest and Field Packing Activities.................................................................................

Part 3 - House Packing Facility......................................................................................................

For Official Government Use Only

USDA, AMS, SCP, Specialty Crop Inspection Division 

August 1, 2022

 Version 3.0
• The "Doc" column:

• Falsification of records.

• Any “N/A” or “No” designation must be explained in the comments section.

• Answering of Questions P1 or P2 as “NO”.

or cause the produce to become contaminated.

For further information regarding the USDA GAP Audit Program, please contact:

USDA Specialty Crops Program, Specialty Crops Inspection Division, Audit Services Branch at 

202-720-5021, or SCAudits@usda.gov

• An immediate food safety risk is present when produce is grown, processed, packed or held under conditions that promote

• The presence or evidence of rodents, an excessive amount of insects or other pests in the produce during packing, processing

or storage of produce.

• Observation of employee practices (personal or hygienic) that have jeopardized or may jeopardize the safety of the produce.

• A "D" indicates that a document(s) is required to show conformance to the question. A document may be a

combination of standard operating procedures outlining company policy as well as a record indicating that a particular

action was taken.

• A "R" indicates that a record is required to be kept showing an action was taken.

• A "P" indicates that a policy/standard operating procedure (SOP) must be documented in the food safety plan in order

to show conformance to the question.

• Farm/Facility must be in operation during audit. This means for a farm audit, perform the audit while the crop is actively

being grown, a field harvest/field harvesting activities audit shall be performed while the product is being harvested, etc.

• Place the point value for each question in the proper column (Yes, No, or N/A).

• Gray boxes in the “N/A” column indicate that question cannot be answered “N/A”.

Auditor Completion Instructions

• For clarification and guidance in answering these questions, please refer to the Good Agricultural Practices & Good

Handling Practices Audit Verification Program Policy and Instruction Guide.

Conditions Under Which an Automatic "Unsatisfactory" Will be Assessed:

For Official Government Use Only

USDA, AMS, SCP, Specialty Crop Inspection Division 

August 1, 2022

 Version 3.0
Points Yes NO N/A Doc

P-1 D

Name:

Points Yes NO N/A Doc

G-1 15 D

G-2 10 R

Points Yes NO N/A Doc

G-3 10 R

G-4 10 P

G-5 15 D

G-6 15

G-7 15

General Questions

A documented food safety program that incorporates GAP has been 

implemented.

Worker Health & Hygiene

P-2

Implementation of a Food Safety Program

D

Drinking water is available to all workers.

Training on proper sanitation and hygiene practices is provided to 

all staff.

Employees and visitors are following good hygiene/sanitation 

practices.

Questions

Traceability

A documented traceability program has been established.

The operation has performed a "mock recall" that was proven to be 

effective.

All employees and all visitors to the location are required to follow 

proper sanitation and hygiene practices.

Employees who handle or package produce are washing their hands 

before beginning or returning to work.

Questions

Questions

The operation has designated someone to implement and oversee an 

established food safety program.

For Official Government Use Only

USDA, AMS, SCP, Specialty Crop Inspection Division 

August 1, 2022

 Version 3.0
Points Yes NO N/A Doc

G-8 10

G-9 15

G-10 10 R

G-11 10 P

G-12 15 P

G-13 15 P

G-14 5 P

G-15 10 R

All toilet/restroom/field sanitation facilities are clean. They are 

properly supplied with single use towels, toilet paper, hand soap or 

anti-bacterial soap, and water for hand washing meets the microbial 

standards for drinking water.

Readily understandable signs are posted to instruct employees to 

wash their hands before beginning or returning to work.

Questions

There is a policy describing procedures which specify 

handling/disposition of produce or food contact surfaces that have 

come into contact with blood or other bodily fluids.

Company personnel or contracted personnel that apply regulated 

pre-harvest and/or post-harvest materials are licensed. Company 

personnel or contracted personnel applying non-regulated materials 

have been trained on its proper use.

Workers are instructed to seek prompt treatment with clean first 

aid supplies for cuts, abrasions and other injuries.

Smoking and eating are confined to designated areas separate from 

where product is handled.

All toilet/restroom/field sanitation facilities are serviced and cleaned 

on a scheduled basis.

Workers with diarrheal disease or symptoms of other infectious 

diseases are prohibited from handling fresh produce.

For Official Government Use Only

USDA, AMS, SCP, Specialty Crop Inspection Division 

August 1, 2022

 Version 3.0
=

=

=

=

Pass

USDA Specialty Crops Program, Specialty Crops Inspection Division, Audit Services Branch at

For further information regarding the USDA GAP Audit Program, please contact:

 202-720-5021, or SCAudits@ams.usda.gov

This program is intended to assess a participant’s efforts to minimize the risk of contamination of fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts and 

miscellaneous commodities by microbial pathogens based on the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s “Guide to Minimize Microbial 

Food Safety Hazards for Fresh Fruits and Vegetables,” and generally recognized good agricultural practices.

Fail

Total Points earned for General Questions = 

 Total Possible

Multiply the Adjusted Total by .8 and show it as the Passing Score

(please mark one)

 Adjusted Total

 X .8 (80%)

 Passing Score

Subtract the N/A points from the Total possible points

Enter the additive number of N/A points (+points) here.

 Additional Comments: 

 Subtract "N/A"

The total number of points possible for this section.

For Official Government Use Only

USDA, AMS, SCP, Specialty Crop Inspection Division 

August 1, 2022

 Version 3.0
(1-1)

(1-2)

Points Yes NO N/A Doc

1-3 15 D

1-4 15 D

1-5 15

Points Yes NO N/A Doc

1-6 15

1-7 10

Points Yes NO N/A Doc

1-8 15

The farm sewage treatment system/septic system is functioning 

properly and there is no evidence of leaking or runoff. 

There is no municipal/commercial sewage treatment facility or 

waste material landfill adjacent to the farm. 

Crop production areas are not located near or adjacent to dairy, 

livestock, or fowl production facilities unless adequate barriers 

exist. 

Part 1 - Farm Review

Water Usage

What is the source of irrigation water? (Pond, Stream, Well, Municipal, Other)

How are crops irrigated? (Flood, Drip, Sprinkler, Other) Please specify:

Questions

Please specify: 

A water quality assessment has been performed to determine the 

quality of water used for irrigation purpose on the crop(s) being 

applied.

A water quality assessment has been performed to determine the 

quality of water use for chemical application or fertigation method. 

If necessary, steps are taken to protect irrigation water from 

potential direct and non-point source contamination.

Animals/Wildlife/Livestock

Sewage Treatment

Questions

Questions

For Official Government Use Only

USDA, AMS, SCP, Specialty Crop Inspection Division 

August 1, 2022

 Version 3.0
Points Yes NO N/A Doc

1-9 10

1-10 10

1-11 10

1-12 5 R

1-13 5 R

Points Yes NO N/A Doc

1-14

10 R

1-15 10 R

Untreated or incompletely treated animal-based soil amendments or a combination 

of untreated and treated animal-based soil amendments are used.

Option B: Only treated or composted animal-based soil amendments/treated municipal 

biosolids are used as soil amendments.

Option C: No animal-based soil amendments or municipal biosolids of any kind are used as 

soil amendments.

Manure lagoons located near or adjacent to crop production areas 

are maintained to prevent leaking/overflowing, or measures have 

been taken to stop runoff from contaminating the crop production 

areas. 

Crop production areas are monitored for the presence or signs of 

wild or domestic animals the entering the land.

Manure stored near or adjacent to crop production areas is 

contained to prevent contamination of crops.

Measures are taken to restrict access of livestock to the source or 

delivery system of crop irrigation water.

Untreated animal-based soil amendments are not used on 

commodities that are harvested within 120 days of planting.

Option A: 

Only answer the following manure questions (questions 1-14 to 1-22) that are assigned to the Option chosen above. 

DO NOT answer the questions from the other two options. The points from the animal-based soil amendments and 

municipal biosolids are worth 35 of a total 190 points, and answering questions from the other two options will 

cause the points to calculate incorrectly.

Option A: Untreated Animal-based Soil Amendments

Animal-based Soil Amendments and Municipal Biosolids

When untreated animal-based soil amendments are applied, it is 

incorporated at least 2 weeks prior to planting and a minimum of 

120 days prior to harvest.

Please choose one of the following options as it relates to the farm operations:

Option A

Measures are taken to reduce the opportunity for wild and/or 

domestic animals from entering crop production areas. 

Questions

For Official Government Use Only

USDA, AMS, SCP, Specialty Crop Inspection Division 

August 1, 2022

 Version 3.0
Points Yes NO N/A Doc

1-16

10 R

1-17 5

Points Yes NO N/A Doc

1-18 10 R

1-19

10 D

1-20

10

1-21

5 R

Points Yes NO N/A Doc

1-22 35 P

Points Yes NO N/A Doc

1-23 5 R

Soils

Questions

Analysis reports are available for treated or composted animalbased soil amendments and/or treated biosolids.

Option C: No Animal-based Soil Amendments/Biosolids Used

No animal-based soil amendments or municipal biosolids are used.

Treated or composted animal-based soil amendments and/or treated 

biosolids are properly treated, composted, or exposed to 

environmental conditions that would lower the expected level of 

pathogens.

Treated or composted animal-based soil amendments and/or treated 

biosolids are properly stored and are protected to minimize 

recontamination.

Only treated or composted animal-based soil amendments and/or 

treated biosolids are used as a soil amendment.

Option B: Treated or Composted Animal-based Soil Amendments/ 

Treated Biosolids

If both untreated and treated animal-based soil amendments are 

used, the treated animal-based soil amendment is properly treated, 

composted or exposed to reduce the expected levels of pathogens.

Animal-based soil amendments are properly stored prior to use.

A previous land use risk assessment has been performed.

Option A: Untreated Animal-based Soil Amendments

For Official Government Use Only

USDA, AMS, SCP, Specialty Crop Inspection Division 

August 1, 2022

 Version 3.0
1-24

10 R

1-25

5 R

Points Yes NO N/A Doc

1-26 10 R

Crop production areas that have been subjected to flooding are 

tested for potential microbial hazards.

Questions

Each production area is identified or coded to enable traceability in 

the event of a recall.

Traceability

When previous land use history indicates a possibility of 

contamination, preventive measures have been taken to mitigate the 

known risks and soils have been tested for contaminants and the 

land use is commensurate with test results. 

 Additional Comments: 

For Official Government Use Only

USDA, AMS, SCP, Specialty Crop Inspection Division 

August 1, 2022

 Version 3.0
=

=

=

=

Pass

This program is intended to assess a participant’s efforts to minimize the risk of contamination of fresh 

fruits, vegetables, nuts and miscellaneous commodities by microbial pathogens based on the U.S. Food 

Enter the additive number of N/A points (+points) here.

and Drug Administration’s “Guide to Minimize Microbial Food Safety Hazards for Fresh Fruits and 

Vegetables,” and generally recognized good agricultural practices.

Fail (please mark one)

 X .8 (80%)

Multiply the Adjusted Total by .8 and show it as the Passing Score

 Passing Score

 Subtract "N/A"

 Adjusted Total Subtract the N/A points from the Total possible points

Total Points earned for Farm Review = 

 Total Possible The total number of points possible for this section.

For Official Government Use Only

USDA, AMS, SCP, Specialty Crop Inspection Division 

August 1, 2022

 Version 3.0
Points Yes NO N/A Doc

2-1 15 D

2-2 10

2-3 10

2-4 10

2-5 10 P

Points Yes NO N/A Doc

2-6 10 D

2-7 10 D

2-8 5

All hand harvesting equipment and implements (knives, pruners 

machetes, etc.) are kept as clean as practical and are disinfected on a 

scheduled basis. 

Damaged containers are properly repaired or disposed of.

Part 2 - Field Harvest and Field Packing Activities

Field Sanitation and Hygiene

When question 2-2 is answered "N/A" (sanitation units are not 

required), a toilet facility is readily available for all workers.

Field sanitation units are located in a location that minimizes the 

potential risk for product contamination and are directly accessible 

for servicing.

A response plan is in place for the event of a major spill or leak of 

field sanitation units or toilet facilities. 

Questions

The number, condition, and placement of field sanitation units 

comply with applicable state and/or federal regulations.

A documented pre-harvest assessment is made on the crop 

production areas. Risks and possible sources of crop contamination 

are noted and assessed. 

Questions

Field Harvesting and Transportation

All harvesting containers and bulk hauling vehicles that come in 

direct contact with product are cleaned and/or sanitized on a 

scheduled basis and kept as clean as practicable.

For Official Government Use Only

USDA, AMS, SCP, Specialty Crop Inspection Division 

August 1, 2022

 Version 3.0
Points Yes NO N/A Doc

2-9 10

2-10 10

2-11 5 P

2-12 5 P

2-13 5

2-14 5 P

2-15 15 R

2-16 5

Harvesting equipment and/or machinery which comes into contact 

with product is in good repair.

There is a standard operating procedure or instructions on what 

measures should be taken in the case of glass/plastic breakage and 

possible contamination during harvesting operations.

There is a standard operating procedure or instructions on what 

measures should be taken in the case of product contamination by 

chemicals, petroleum, pesticides or other contaminating factors.

Harvesting containers, totes, etc. are not used for carrying or 

storing non- produce items during the harvest season, and farm 

workers are instructed in this policy. 

Efforts have been made to remove excessive dirt and mud from 

product and/or containers during harvest.

Light bulbs and glass on harvesting equipment are protected so as 

not to contaminate produce or fields in the case of breakage.

Questions

For mechanically harvested product, measures are taken during 

harvest to inspect for and remove foreign objects such as glass, 

metal, rocks, or other dangerous/toxic items. 

Water applied to harvested product meets the microbial standards 

for drinking water.

For Official Government Use Only

USDA, AMS, SCP, Specialty Crop Inspection Division 

August 1, 2022

 Version 3.0
Points Yes NO N/A Doc

2-17

10

2-18 5 P

2-19 10 D

2-20 10

2-21

10 D

In ranch or field pack operations, only new or sanitized containers 

are used for packing the product. 

There is a policy in place and has been implemented that harvested 

product being moved from field to storage areas or processing 

plants are covered during transportation. 

Transportation equipment used to move product from field to 

storage areas or storage areas to processing plant which comes into 

contact with product is clean and in good repair. 

Product moving out of the field is uniquely identified to enable 

traceability in the event of a recall.

Packing materials used in ranch or field pack operations are 

properly stored and protected from contamination.

Questions

For Official Government Use Only

USDA, AMS, SCP, Specialty Crop Inspection Division 

August 1, 2022

 Version 3.0
=

=

=

=

Pass

 Additional Comments: 

fruits, vegetables, nuts and miscellaneous commodities by microbial pathogens based on the U.S. Food 

Total Points earned for Field Harvesting & Field Packaging = 

 Total Possible The total number of points possible for this section.

 Adjusted Total Subtract the N/A points from the Total possible points

 Subtract "N/A" Enter the additive number of N/A points (+points) here.

and Drug Administration’s “Guide to Minimize Microbial Food Safety Hazards for Fresh Fruits and 

Vegetables,” and generally recognized good agricultural practices.

 X .8 (80%) Multiply the Adjusted Total by .8 and show it as the Passing Score

 Passing Score

Fail (please mark one)

This program is intended to assess a participant’s efforts to minimize the risk of contamination of fresh 

For Official Government Use Only

USDA, AMS, SCP, Specialty Crop Inspection Division 

August 1, 2022

 Version 3.0
Points Yes NO N/A Doc

3-1 5

3-2 5

Points Yes NO N/A Doc

3-3 15 R

3-4 10 D

3-5 10 D

3-6 10 D

3-7 10 D

Water-contact surfaces, such as dump tanks, flumes, wash tanks 

and hydro coolers, are cleaned and/or sanitized on a scheduled 

basis.

Water treatment (strength levels and pH) and exposure time is 

monitored and the facility has demonstrated it is appropriate for the 

product.

Washing/Packing Line

Questions

Source water used in the packing operation meets the microbial 

standards for drinking water.

If applicable, the temperature of processing water used in dump 

tanks, flumes, etc., is monitored and is kept at temperatures 

appropriate for the crop.

Part 3 - HOUSE PACKING FACILITY

Receiving

Questions

Product delivered from the field which is held in a staging area 

prior to packing or processing is protected from possible 

contamination.

Prior to packing, product is properly stored and/or handled in order 

to reduce possible contamination.

Processing water is sufficiently treated to reduce microbial 

contamination.

For Official Government Use Only

USDA, AMS, SCP, Specialty Crop Inspection Division 

August 1, 2022

 Version 3.0
Points Yes NO N/A Doc

3-8 15 D

3-9 10

3-10 15 R

3-11 10 R

Points Yes NO N/A Doc

3-12 10

3-13 5 P

3-14 5 P

Points Yes NO N/A Doc

3-15 10 R

Packing House General Housekeeping

Questions

Only food grade approved and labeled lubricants are used in the 

packing equipment/machinery.

Employee facilities (locker rooms, lunch and break areas, etc.) are 

clean and located away from packing area.

When there is a written policy regarding the use of hair nets/beard 

nets in the production area, it is being followed by all employees and 

visitors.

When there is a written policy regarding the wearing of jewelry in 

the production area, it is being followed by all employees and 

visitors.

The water used for cooling and/or making ice meets the microbial 

standards for drinking water.

Any ice used for cooling produce is manufactured, transported and 

stored under sanitary conditions.

Packing House Worker Health & Hygiene

Questions

Food contact surfaces are in good condition; cleaned and/or 

sanitized prior to use and cleaning logs are maintained.

Product flow zones are protected from sources of contamination.

Questions

For Official Government Use Only

USDA, AMS, SCP, Specialty Crop Inspection Division 

August 1, 2022

 Version 3.0
Points Yes NO N/A Doc

3-16 10

3-17 5

3-18 5

3-19 5

3-20 5

3-21 5

3-22 5

3-23 5

3-24 10

3-25 10

3-26 15 P

Points Yes NO N/A Doc

3-27 10 D

There is a policy describing procedures which specify 

handling/disposition of finished product that is opened, spilled, or 

comes into contact with the floor.

Only new or sanitized containers are used for packing the product.

Questions

Pipes, ducts, fans and ceilings which are over food handling 

operations, are clean.

Glass materials above product flow zones are contained in case of 

breakage.

Possible wastewater spillage is prevented from contaminating any 

food handling area by barriers, drains, or a sufficient distance.

Questions

Packing facilities are enclosed.

The packing facility interior is clean and maintained in an orderly 

manner.

Floor drains appear to be free of obstructions.

The plant grounds are reasonably free of litter and debris.

The plant grounds are reasonably free of standing water.

Outside garbage receptacles/dumpsters are closed or are located 

away from packing facility entrances and the area around such sites 

is reasonably clean.

Chemicals not approved for use on product are stored and 

segregated away from packing area.

For Official Government Use Only

USDA, AMS, SCP, Specialty Crop Inspection Division 

August 1, 2022

 Version 3.0
3-28 5

3-29 10

Points Yes NO N/A Doc

3-30 10 D

3-31 10 D

3-32 5 R

3-33 5

Points Yes NO N/A Doc

3-34 10 D

Traceability

Questions

Records are kept recording the source of incoming product and the 

destination of outgoing product which is uniquely identified to 

enable traceability.

There is an established pest control program for the facility.

Service reports for the pest control program are available for 

review.

Interior walls, floors and ceilings are well maintained and are free 

of major cracks and crevices.

Packing containers are properly stored and protected from 

contamination (birds, rodents and other pests).

Pest Control

Questions

Measures are taken to exclude animals and pests from packing and 

storage facilities.

Pallets and containers are clean and in good condition.

For Official Government Use Only

USDA, AMS, SCP, Specialty Crop Inspection Division 

August 1, 2022

 Version 3.0
=

=

=

=

Pass

fruits, vegetables, nuts and miscellaneous commodities by microbial pathogens based on the U.S. Food 

and Drug Administration’s “Guide to Minimize Microbial Food Safety Hazards for Fresh Fruits and 

Vegetables,” and generally recognized good agricultural practices.

Fail (please mark one)

This program is intended to assess a participant’s efforts to minimize the risk of contamination of fresh 

 X .8 (80%) Multiply the Adjusted Total by .8 and show it as the Passing Score

 Passing Score

 Total Possible The total number of points possible for this section.

 Subtract "N/A" Enter the additive number of N/A points (+points) here.

 Adjusted Total Subtract the N/A points from the Total possible points

Total Points earned for House Packing Facility = 

 Additional Comments: 

For Official Government Use Only

USDA, AMS, SCP, Specialty Crop Inspection Division 

August 1, 2022

 Version 3.0
Points Yes NO N/A Doc

4-1 5

4-2 5 R

4-3 10

4-4 5

4-5 5

4-6 10

4-7 15 P

4-8 10

4-9 5

Packing containers are properly stored and sufficiently sealed, to be 

protected from contamination (birds, rodents, pests, and other 

contaminants). 

Pallets, pallet boxes, tote bags, and portable bins, etc. are clean, in 

good condition and do not contribute foreign material to the 

product. 

Part 4 - STORAGE AND TRANSPORTATION

Product, Containers & Pallets

The storage facility is cleaned and maintained in an orderly manner.

Questions

Bulk storage facilities are inspected for foreign material prior to use 

and records are maintained.

Floors in storage areas are reasonably free of standing water.

Possible wastewater spillage is prevented from contaminating any 

food handling area by barriers, drains, or sufficient distance.

Storage rooms, buildings, and/or facilities are maintained and 

sufficiently sealed or isolated and are protected from external 

contamination.

There is a policy describing procedures which specify 

handling/disposition of finished product which is opened, spilled, or 

comes into contact with the floor.

Storage grounds are reasonably free of litter and debris.

For Official Government Use Only

USDA, AMS, SCP, Specialty Crop Inspection Division 

August 1, 2022

 Version 3.0
Points Yes NO N/A Doc

4-10 10

4-11 10

4-12 5 D

Points Yes NO N/A Doc

4-13 10 D

4-14 10 D

4-15 5 R

4-16 5

Points Yes NO N/A Doc

4-17 15 R

4-18 10 R

Non-food grade substances such as paints, lubricants, pesticides, 

etc., are not stored in close proximity to the product.

Product stored outside in totes, trucks, bins, other containers or on 

the ground in bulk is covered and protected from contamination. 

Questions

Mechanical equipment used during the storage process is clean and 

maintained to prevent contamination of the product.

Pest Control

Questions

There is an established pest control program for the facility.

Service reports for the pest control program are available for 

review.

Interior walls, floors, and ceilings are well-maintained and are free 

of major cracks and crevices.

Questions

Ice & Refrigeration

The water used for cooling, humidity, and/or making ice meets the 

microbial standards for drinking water.

Measures are taken to exclude animals and pests from storage 

facilities.

Manufacturing, storage, and transportation facilities used in 

making and delivering ice used for cooling the product have been 

sanitized.

For Official Government Use Only

USDA, AMS, SCP, Specialty Crop Inspection Division 

August 1, 2022

 Version 3.0
Points Yes NO N/A Doc

4-19 5 D

4-20 5 D

4-21 10

4-22 10 D

4-23 10

Points Yes NO N/A Doc

4-24

10 P

4-25 10 P

4-26

10 P

4-27 5 P

Points Yes NO N/A Doc

4-28

10

Thermometer(s) are checked for accuracy and records are available 

for review.

Transportation

Iced product does not drip on pallets of produce stored below.

Refrigeration equipment (condensers, fans, etc.) and dehumidifies 

are cleaned on a scheduled basis.

Temperature control equipment condensation does not come in 

contact with produce.

Climate-controlled rooms are monitored for temperature and logs 

are maintained.

Questions

Conveyances are loaded to minimize damage to product.

Company has a written policy for transporters and conveyances to 

maintain a specified temperature(s) during transit.

Questions

Produce items are not loaded with potentially contaminating 

products.

Prior to the loading process, conveyances are required to be clean, 

in good physical condition, free from disagreeable odors and from 

obvious dirt/debris.

Employee facilities (locker rooms, lunch and break areas, etc.) are 

clean and located away from storage, shipping, and receiving areas.

Questions

Worker Health and Personal Hygiene

For Official Government Use Only

USDA, AMS, SCP, Specialty Crop Inspection Division 

August 1, 2022

 Version 3.0
Points Yes NO N/A Doc

4-29

5 P

4-30

5 P

Points Yes NO N/A Doc

4-31

10 D

Questions

Questions

Traceability

Records are kept regarding the source of incoming product and the 

destination of outgoing product which is uniquely identified to 

enable traceability.

 Additional Comments: 

When there is a written policy regarding the use of hair/beard nets 

in the storage and transportation areas, it is being followed by all 

affected employees and visitors.

When there is a written policy restricting the wearing of jewelry in 

the storage and transportation areas, it is being followed by all 

affected employees and visitors. 

For Official Government Use Only

USDA, AMS, SCP, Specialty Crop Inspection Division 

August 1, 2022

 Version 3.0
=

=

=

=

Pass

 Passing Score

Vegetables,” and generally recognized good agricultural practices.

Fail (please mark one)

This program is intended to assess a participant’s efforts to minimize the risk of contamination of fresh 

fruits, vegetables, nuts and miscellaneous commodities by microbial pathogens based on the U.S. Food 

and Drug Administration’s “Guide to Minimize Microbial Food Safety Hazards for Fresh Fruits and 

 X .8 (80%)

Multiply the Adjusted Total by .8 and show it as the Passing Score

 Total Possible The total number of points possible for this section.

 Subtract "N/A" Enter the additive number of N/A points (+points) here.

 Adjusted Total Subtract the N/A points from the Total possible points

Total Points earned for Storage & Transportation = 

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USDA, AMS, SCP, Specialty Crop Inspection Division 

August 1, 2022

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Points Yes NO N/A Doc

Name:

5-2 5 D

5-4 5 D

5-5 5 D

5-6 5 D

5-7 5 D

5-8 5

5-9 5 D

5-10 5 D

Incoming and outgoing employee and visitor vehicles to and from 

the site are subject to inspection.

Visitors are prohibited from the packing/storage areas unless 

accompanied by an employee.

Visitors are required to check in (showing proof of identity) and 

out, when entering/leaving the facility.

Part 5 - Preventive Food Defense Procedures 

Based on the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s Food Producers, Processors, and Transporters: 

Secure Employee/Visitor Procedures

5-1

Name of management representative: 5

Food Security Preventive Measure Guidance for Industry.

Questions

5-3

5 D

Food defense training has been provided to all employees.

Employees are aware of whom in management they should contact 

about potential security problems/issues.

The company has a documented food defense plan and a person has 

been designated to oversee it.

Parked vehicles belonging to employees and visitors display a decal 

or placard issued by the facility.

Staff is prohibited from bringing personal items into the handling or 

storage areas.

The purpose of visitation to site is verified before admittance to the 

facility.

Staff access in the facility is limited to the area of their job function 

and unrestricted areas.

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August 1, 2022

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Points Yes NO N/A Doc

5-11 5 D

5-12

5

Points Yes NO N/A Doc

5-13 5 D

5-14 5

5-15 5 D

5-16 5

5-17 5 D

5-18 5 D

5-19 5

5-20 5 D

5-21 5 D

A minimum level of background checks has been established for all 

employees.

Management is aware of which employee should be on the premises 

and the area they are assigned to.

Routine security checks of the premises are performed for signs of 

tampering, criminal or terrorist activity.

Checklists are used to verify the security of doors, windows, and 

other points of entry.

Perimeter of facility is secured by fencing or other deterrent.

All keys to the establishment are accounted for.

Questions

A system of positive identification of employees has been established 

and is enforced.

Secure Facility Procedures

Uniforms, name tags, or identification badges are collected from 

employees prior to the termination of employment.

Questions

The mailroom is located away from the packing/storage facilities.

Computer access is restricted to specific personnel.

A system of traceability of computer transactions has been 

established.

For Official Government Use Only

USDA, AMS, SCP, Specialty Crop Inspection Division 

August 1, 2022

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5-22 5

Points Yes NO N/A Doc

5-23 5

5-24 5

5-25 5

5-26 5

5-27 5 D

5-28 5 D

5-29 5 D

5-30 5 D

5-31 5 D

5-32 5 D

5-33

5 D

5-34

5 D

The facility has a program in place to inspect product returned to 

the facility for tampering.

The company has performed a successful mock recall of product to 

the facility.

The company has identified the individual(s), with at least one 

backup, who are responsible for recalling the product.

Product imported from outside the United States is segregated from 

domestic product.

Allergens handled by the facility are segregated from products to 

avoid cross contamination.

The facility is enclosed.

Delivery schedules have been established.

The off-loading of incoming materials is supervised.

Unauthorized deliveries are not accepted.

The company does not accept returned (empty) containers for 

packing of product unless they are sanitized containers intended for 

reuse.

The organization has an established policy for rejecting deliveries.

Storage or vehicles/containers/trailers/railcars that are not being 

used are kept locked.

The facility has an emergency lighting system.

Questions

For Official Government Use Only

USDA, AMS, SCP, Specialty Crop Inspection Division 

August 1, 2022

 Version 3.0
Points Yes NO N/A Doc

5-35

5 D

5-36

5 D The organization has registered with the FDA and has been issued a 

registration number (do not record the number on checklist).

Questions

Floor plans, product flow plans, and/or segregation charts are in a 

secure location.

 Additional Comments: 

For Official Government Use Only

USDA, AMS, SCP, Specialty Crop Inspection Division 

August 1, 2022

 Version 3.0
=

=

=

=

Pass

This program is intended to assess a participant’s efforts to minimize the risk of contamination of fresh 

fruits, vegetables, nuts and miscellaneous commodities by microbial pathogens based on the U.S. Food 

and Drug Administration’s “Guide to Minimize Microbial Food Safety Hazards for Fresh Fruits and 

Vegetables,” and generally recognized good agricultural practices.

Fail (please mark one)

 X .8 (80%)

Multiply the Adjusted Total by .8 and show it as the Passing Score

 Passing Score

 Total Possible The total number of points possible for this section.

 Subtract "N/A" Enter the additive number of N/A points (+points) here.

 Adjusted Total Subtract the N/A points from the Total possible points

Total Points earned for Preventive Food Defense Procedures = 

For Official Government Use Only

USDA, AMS, SCP, Specialty Crop Inspection Division 

August 1, 2022

 Version 3.0
Points Yes NO N/A Doc

LU-1 N/A P, R

LU-2 N/A D

Points Yes NO N/A Doc

LU-3

N/A R

LU-4 N/A P, R

LU-5

N/A R

Points Yes NO N/A Doc

LU-6 N/A P

LU-7

N/A P There is a designated person to be responsible for the control of 

inventory bearing the logo.

Questions

The operation's food safety plan or quality manual contains 

procedures on how the USDA GAP logo will be used.

All suppliers have successfully completed and met the requirements of 

a USDA approved GAP audit (USDA GAP, Commodity Specific 

Audit, USDA Harmonized GAP Audit, or USDA Harmonized GAP 

Plus+ Audit).

Food Safety Plan or Quality Manual

All suppliers currently in use by the operation are listed on the 

supplied list of approved suppliers.

Approved Suppliers

Questions

The operation has supplied a list of approved suppliers to the local 

Federal or State auditor's office.

The operation uses the USDA GAP logo only on packages, containers, 

or consumer units which are traceable.

Active and Effective Traceability and Recall Program

Questions

Questions about traceability and recall program have all been scored 

as "Yes".

USDA LOGO USE ADDENDUM

Note: An official identification logo has been developed in conjunction with the USDA GAP program which may be 

used to indicate participation in the program. Participants may use the logo, provided they meet the requirements 

of the USDA logo use .

The USDA Logo Use Addendum acceptance criteria is as follows:

1. No questions are assessed as an automatic unsatisfactory

2. No falsification of records

3. All questions not answered as "N/A" are answered "Yes"

Additional questions required for operations approved to use the USDA GAP Logo

For Official Government Use Only

USDA, AMS, SCP, Specialty Crop Inspection Division 

August 1, 2022

 Version 3.0
Points Yes NO N/A Doc

LU-8

N/A P, R

LU-9

N/A R

LU-10

N/A R

LU-11

N/A R

Pass

This program is intended to assess a participant’s efforts to minimize the risk of contamination of fresh 

fruits, vegetables, nuts and miscellaneous commodities by microbial pathogens based on the U.S. Food 

and Drug Administration’s “Guide to Minimize Microbial Food Safety Hazards for Fresh Fruits and 

Vegetables,” and generally recognized good agricultural practices.

Fail

In order to be approved for the use of the USDA GAP Program logo all questions not answered "N/A" must be 

answered "Yes". 

The logo is only used on products, processes, and packaging as 

approved on the SC-652.

 Additional Comments:

The operation's inventory list of these packaging or labels is 

maintained and current.

The logo is only used on packaging and labels that are clean and 

bright in appearance, without marks, stains, or other evidence of 

previous use.

Questions

All packaging or labels which bear the GAP logo are accountable 

items.

Containers or Labels with GAP Logo

For Official Government Use Only

USDA, AMS, SCP, Specialty Crop Inspection Division 

August 1, 2022

 Version 3.0
Yes No

✓ 180

180

190

290

Company Name: 

Street Address : City, State, Zip: 

United States Department of Agriculture Good Agricultural Practices

Agricultural Marketing Services Audit Verification Program Scoresheet 

Specialty Crops Inspection Division

E-mail Address:

Phone Number: Date Audit Requested:

Fax Number: Date of Previous Audit :

Date Audit Began: Date Audit Completed: USDA Commodity Procurement Audit?

Time Audit Began: Time Audit Completed: Check One

EVALUATION ELEMENTS

Scopes 

Requested Element Possible 

Points

Less N/A 

Points

Adjusted 

Points

Passing 

Score*

Facility 

Score % Pass Fail Date Passed General Questions

Reviewing 

Official Int. Unannounced

General Questions (Initial Audit) 

General Questions**

Part 2 – Field Harvesting & Field 

Packing Activities 185

Part 1 – Farm Review

Part 3 – House Packing Facility 

Part 4 – Storage and Transportation 255

*A Passing Score is 80% of the Possible Points, or the Adjusted Points if adjustments are necessary, with no "automatic unsatisfactory" conditions.

** If applicable, General Questions assessed at a later date for a scope not covered during the initial audit. 

Crops:

Logo Use Addendum

Part 5 – Preventive Food Defense 

Procedures 180

Reviewing Official Name (Print):

Signature & Date:

Duty Station: All Scopes Completed:

For USDA HQ use:

Lead Auditor Name (Print):

Signature & 

Date:

For Official Government Use Only

USDA, AMS, SCP, Specialty Crop Inspection Division 

August 1, 2022

 Version 3.0
4. Place a check in the box beside "Create a Copy"

5. Click "Ok" 

DUPLICATION OF CORRECTIVE ACTION TAB INSTRUCTIONS

Any item on any checklist with a checkmark in the "No" column should be documented using a 

Corrective Action Report. A separate form is required for each item with either of these entities. If 

there is more than one form needed, follow the instructions below to duplicate the Corrective Action 

Report Tab:

1. Right-click the "Corrective Action Report" Tab at the bottom of 

Excel.

2. Click "Move or Copy.

3. Under the box titled "Before Sheet," select "(move to end)" 

For Official Government Use Only

USDA, AMS, SCP, Specialty Crop Inspection Division 

August 1, 2022

 Version 3.0
of

Company Name/Farm: Date:

Crops(s): 

Notified company staff at time of finding non-conformity (Yes or No):

Checklist question number and/or section of auditee food safety plan associated with non-conformity:

Corrective Action Proposed and Time Frame for Implementation: (Attach separate sheet if necessary)

Top portion for AUDITOR USE ONLY; bottom portion for Company and Auditor use.

Company Representative Signature: 

Signature affirms statements concerning Non-Conformity, Corrective Action, and Implementation are correct.

Auditor signature for acceptance of proposed corrective action and timetable for implementation: 

Description of Non Conformity: 

Good Agricultural Practices

USDA Good Agricultural Practices

USDA Checklist 

USDA, AMS, Specialty Crops Program Report #: 

CORRECTIVE ACTION REPORT

Lead Auditor: 

For Official Government Use Only

USDA, AMS, SCP, Specialty Crop Inspection Division 

August 1, 2022

 Version 3.0