Produce Safety in Hydroponic and Aquaponic Operations: Fish Health and Handling

In an aquaponic operation, the production of fish and produce are interconnected through recirculating water. While the Food Safety Modernization Act Produce Safety Rule (FSMA PSR) does not require practices specific to fish health and handling, it is important for aquaponic growers to understand that these activities impact produce safety. In short, healthy fish and proper handling are critical to produce safety. The objective of this factsheet is to focus on practices that promote an aquatic environment that will support the growth of healthy fish, thereby reducing produce safety risk.