Whether purchasing from a local gardener, or starting your own garden, keep a few food safety questions in mind:

where is the garden located;

what type of fertilizer is used;

what is the water source;

is the garden and surrounding area properly maintained; and,

is the produce harvested safely?

Local gardeners and produce customers should understand that whether
it is a 1,000-acre commercial operation, or a small 10’ x 10’ plot of
land in one’s backyard, the principles of safe gardening remain the
same. The grower must prevent the produce from being contaminated.
Remember: food safe from farm to fork – even if it’s a small farm.

For more information about safe gardening visit
http://ucfoodsafety.ucdavis.edu/UC_Publications/