Non Technical Summary
The Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA), implemented nearly a decade ago, mandates rigorous safety standards in the food industry. This includes compliance with preventive controls, produce safety, and traceability rules. While very small food industries may be exempt, growing businesses face substantial challenges due to their limited resources. Most existing materials and model plans cater to large production facilities, highlighting a significant gap in support for small food processors who must adhere to FSMA's various regulations. To address this, we propose a novel approach: a collaborative peer coaching program to offer training and technical assistance specifically tailored to emerging food industries.Our project team is forging partnerships with the Osage Nation and the Made In Oklahoma Coalition to develop a bespoke peer-coaching program. The primary objectives of our proposal are:1. Trainer Preparation: Equip trainers with comprehensive knowledge of FSMA rules.2.Customized Materials Development: Create training and outreach materials specifically designed for small food industries and growers.3.Training Program Implementation: Launch a training program that incorporates peer coaching, ensuring practical and relatable learning experiences.4.Program Evaluation: Systematically assess the program's activities to ensure effectiveness and identify areas for improvement.This project aims to establish a much-needed support structure for small food industries in Oklahoma and potentially beyond. By addressing the unique challenges these smaller entities face, we aim to enhance overall food safety and industry compliance with FSMA regulations.

Classification

Knowledge Area (KA)	Subject of Investigation (SOI)	Field of Science (FOS)	Percent
723	5010	3020	50%
503	5010	3020	50%

Knowledge Area
723 - Hazards to Human Health and Safety; 503 - Quality Maintenance in Storing and Marketing Food Products;

Subject Of Investigation
5010 - Food;

Field Of Science
3020 - Education;

Goals / Objectives
The overall goal of the proposed project is to develop a novel collaborative peer coaching program to offer training and technical assistance specially tailored to emerging food industries.The primary objectives of our proposal are: 1. Trainer Preparation: Equip trainers with comprehensive knowledge of FSMA rules.2. Customized Materials Development: Create training and outreach materials specifically designed for small food industries and growers. 3. Training Program Implementation: Launch a training program that incorporates peer coaching, ensuring practical and relatable learning experiences.4. Program Evaluation: Systematically assess the program's activities to ensure effectiveness and identify areas for improvement.

Project Methods
This project aims to enhance food safety compliance among small and medium-sized food companies through a structured, multi-objective program. Initially, it focuses on preparing trainers with comprehensive knowledge of FSMA and internal auditing rules, leveraging expertise from professionals within the Osage Nation, Maid in Oklahoma member food companies, extension educators, and food safety graduate students. A peer-coaching program will be established to support MIO companies and tribal businesses in implementing FSMA-compliant food safety programs, selecting trainers based on their existing food safety program experience and willingness to engage in peer coaching.Customized training materials will be developed to address the specific needs of small food industries, including practical guidance on GMP audits, hazard analysis, detergent and sanitizer use, supply chain preventive controls, allergen management, traceability, and environmental monitoring. The training program will be implemented in three stages: standardized Preventive Controls Qualified Individual (PCQI) training, personalized support for food safety program implementation, and internal audits to identify opportunities for continuous improvement. The program's effectiveness will be systematically evaluated using the Kirkpatrick Model, assessing increases in awareness and knowledge, successful system implementation, and continuous improvement understanding.