This week, the question was: What kind of caterpillar is this?
This week was a trick question. This is no caterpillar. It’s goose poop! Well done to everyone that saw through the B.S., or more appropriately, G.S. Even though this week’s question was for fun, feces on our plants is a serious food safety concern. There are numerous food-borne illnesses that can be transmitted through contact with fecal material. Under the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA), produce growers are required to create and follow a procedure for what to do when a potential contamination like this is found in the field. For information on FSMA and how to create a food safety plan, reach out to the SCDA Produce Safety Team or Clemson’s Food Safety Team.
This week’s question is from Justin Ballew, Extension Fruit and Vegetable Research Associate.
The South Carolina Grower 