(NAFB) – The Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture this week announced a $10 million food safety investment.

The investment funds 21 grants to develop and implement food safety and Food Safety Modernization Act-related training, education, extension outreach and technical assistance for food processors and farmers with small to mid-size operations.

NIFA Director Dr. Carrie Castille explains the program “helps deliver critical trainings and resources that equip our small business owners with tools to provide safe, high-quality food.”

Additional communities supported through the Food Safety Outreach Competitive Grant Program include beginning farmers, socially disadvantaged farmers, veteran farmers and ranchers, and small fresh fruit and vegetable merchant wholesalers. Awards are made under three categories, including Multistate Education and Training Projects, Community Outreach Projects and Collaborative Engagement Supplements.

The Food Safety Modernization Act, passed into law in 2011 with food codes that protect communities from foodborne illness, largely focuses on training for large farmers and ranchers with commercial operations.