Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/53575
Develop practices that are simple and easy to follow, set clear expectations, and follow up with audits to ensure compliance. "If you can make the practices personal— that workers will follow at home—it's more likely they'll practice them at work." Employers can try to "Passion about food safety is contagious and should show in everything you do." — Gina Nicholson scare people into compli- ance, but they won't accomplish long-term behavior changes, she said, adding that how employers communicate is important. She also advocates including the food safety director in sales meetings to develop cross-categori- cal networks. Food safety departments are usually small in most companies, but participation in sales meetings can help all departments learn where food safety fits in. "When it comes to selling food safety, you have to Gina Nicholson, who grew up on a farm, says that today's foodborne pathogens have evolved into more virulent strains. make an emotional connection and put a face on the issue," she said, adding that 29 people died in the recent outbreak of listeria on cantaloupes from Colorado. "It's not about the third-party audit. It's about the face of food safety. It's very important to remember why we're doing what we're doing." • 14 FEBRUARY 1, 2012 GOOD FRUIT GROWER www.goodfruit.com