EUREPGAP – THE PRINCIPLES OF CERTIFICATION AND THEIR IMPLEMENTATION IN HORTICULTURAL HOLDINGS

Abstract

This paper presents the history and principles of EUREPGAP certifi cation. The system is evaluated on the basis of research conducted among three big producers of fresh tomatoes and cucumbers in the Lublin Province. EUREPGAP consists of voluntary standards for the certifi cation of such agricultural products as fresh fruit and vegetables, cut fl owers, green coffee, meat, fi sh and seafood. The certifi cate is required by all main international chains of supermarkets. Certifying food safety management system in horticultural holdings is quite advantagous to them. It is shown by presenting opinions of investigated producers about costs and benefi ts of EUREPGAP. The interviewed farmers have also given the reasons for implementing the system and described the diffi culties that have appeared whilst certifying and maintaining EUREPGAP.