The Food Innovation and Business Hub with the Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Farm, Food and Enterprise Development Program will offer the Food Safety Preventive Controls Alliance Preventive Controls for Human Food Version 2.0 in Ames.

Participants can choose between two course formats. The first option is an in-person format spanning three full days from June 2 to 4. The second option is a hybrid approach, where Part 1 is completed online at participants’ own pace, followed by the instructor-led Part 2 on Sept. 17.

The training is designed for food processors and individuals responsible for developing or overseeing food safety plans. Participants who successfully complete the course will meet the FDA requirement to be recognized as a Preventive Controls Qualified Individual.

Developed by FSPCA and recognized by the FDA as the standardized curriculum, this course provides one of the main ways to meet PCQI training requirements. Attendees will gain practical knowledge in hazard analysis, risk-based preventive controls and current good manufacturing practices, all of which are critical to ensuring safe food production.

PCQI is not a certification program. Rather, the recognition equips attendees with the knowledge and skills needed to carry out responsibilities outlined in the Preventive Controls for Human Food rule.

“The FSCPA Preventive Controls for Human Food 2.0 course is a new version, so it’s a great opportunity for food processors to meet PCQI requirements and hear updated information,” said Hansen. “Also, many trainings are only available virtually, so having an in-person option is a big benefit, and we’re excited to be offering it.”

The Preventive Controls for Human Food regulation aims to ensure the safe manufacturing, processing, packing and holding of food products for human consumption in the U.S. Under this regulation, a PCQI is required to:

• Prepare and oversee the Food Safety Plan
• Validate preventive controls
• Review records
• Reanalyze the Food Safety Plan
• Perform other activities to support compliance

To attend the three-day in-person course, participants must register online. The registration fee is $700 per participant.

To attend the hybrid course, participants must also register online. The registration fee is $400 per participant.

Participants are encouraged to register early, as seats are limited. The Food Innovation and Business Hub can also provide the Preventive Controls for Human Food Version 2.0 training at your facility and customize it for your shift. For more information, contact Hansen at hefuller@iastate.edu.

For more information about the course, visit the FSPCA Preventive Controls for Human Food Version 2.0 Participant Course website or the Food Innovation Business Hub website.