(614) 375-0144

audit@sustainablyfresh.com

FAQs

Got questions about audits, Controlled Environment Agriculture or you want to know more about improving your farm’s productivity? Click on the LEARN MORE button to take you to that section of the page with answers!

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3rd Party Auditing Services

We can help you verify that how you process your produce conforms to Good Agricultural Practices standards.

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Controlled Environment Agriculture

Cultivating crops within enclosed environment allow growing conditions to be carefully regulated.

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Business Development Services

We provide a range of consulting services tailored to meet the needs of small and medium-sized farms.

General Questions

Where are you located and what are your hours of operation?

Please see our Contact page for location and hours.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept checks, money orders, and cash. Debit and credit card payments are not available at this time but are currently in development.

Are your services nationwide?

We can assist farms across the United States; however, we primarily operate in the Midwest.

Do you offer free consultations?

Absolutely! Our services may not be the right fit for everyone, but we are happy to guide you in the best direction for your operation. You will only be charged for services that have been discussed and agreed upon in advance.

What makes your company unique?

We are one of the few companies that truly understands the voice of the small grower. Our mission is not only to advocate on your behalf but also to serve as a trusted partner in navigating the complexities of compliance.

Questions about 3rd Party Auditing Services

What is a Harmonized GAP Audit?

A Harmonized GAP (Good Agricultural Practices) Audit is a food safety audit that verifies a farm's compliance with industry standards for growing, harvesting, and handling produce safely.

How do I schedule a Harmonized GAP Audit?

Once you are an existing client, we will contact you before the season to get you on the schedule. We do our best to keep your audit dates consistent year after year.

What documents do I need for the Harmonized GAP Audit?

We understand that gathering the necessary documents can feel overwhelming or even intimidating. One of our consultants will guide you through the process to ensure you have everything needed.

What happens if I fail an audit?

We understand that failing an audit can be discouraging, but it is just the next step in your food safety journey. If you do not pass, we will hold your certification until all corrective actions are completed and another onsite visit is scheduled. We recognize the financial impact of audits on small growers and will do our best to minimize costs if a re-audit is required.

Questions about Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA)

What is Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA)?

CEA is a farming method that uses technology to control factors like temperature, humidity, and light to optimize crop growth. It includes systems such as greenhouses, vertical farms, hydroponics, aeroponics, and aquaponics, enabling year-round production with greater efficiency and sustainability.

What crops can you grow in a CEA facility?

Some crops are easier to grow than others, while some are still being optimized for indoor cultivation. We can help guide you in selecting the best produce to grow based on factors relevant to your operation and region.

Do you offer educational programs for CEA?

Yes, we can help connect you with the best solutions for your needs and have partnered with experts to address more complex technical questions.

Can I tour your CEA facility?

Yes, we have a model facility available for tours.

Questions about Business Development Services

What types of consulting services do you offer?

We specialize in food safety, compliance, and profitability analysis. We’re happy to assess any aspect of your operation, and if we can’t help, we’ll connect you with someone in our network who can.

How can consulting help my farm/business?

Consulting helps you implement a food safety plan and achieve compliance with large retailers, processors, and wholesalers. We understand that your focus is on growing safe, high-quality produce, and navigating regulations can be overwhelming, we’re here to simplify the process.

Do you work with underserved or under-resourced farmers?

Yes! This is our primary customer base. We actively seek to support these farmers because they often need assistance the most.

What is your process for consulting engagements?

We start with a free consultation, followed by a discussion of project costs. You will never be charged before we discuss and agree on the services provided.

What are your fees for consulting?

Pricing varies based on the complexity of the project. Contact us for a personalized quote.