Awards issued prior to january 20, 2025, were funded under previous administrations and may not reflect the priorities and policies of the current administration.** specialty crops account for 51%…

Awards issued prior to january 20, 2025, were funded under previous administrations and may not reflect the priorities and policies of the current administration.** specialty crops account for 51% of 9.6 million cases of foodborne illness in the U.S. Foodborne illness caused by contaminated specialty crops is estimated to produce an annual burden to the domestic economy of approximately $18 billion. The overarching objective of this project is to develop novel spraying/dipping solutions and coatings to improve the microbiological safety of farming tools and accessories used in harvesting and food-contact surfaces used for storing, sorting, and processing of specialty crops. In addition, the proposed activity aims at reducing water usage needed for cleaning these tools and surfaces, thereby contributing towards sustainability.antifouling characteristics on the material(S)/object(S) of interest will be incorporated via a synergistic combination of nanotexturing and permanent/covalent attachment of inert, long-chain hydrophobic molecules. The ease of cleaning of bacteria and dirt will be evaluated through two different hydrological assays. We will develop regional/national extension outreach activities to disseminate results through integration of research and extension activities. We will write reports, present results at national professional meetings, and organize workshops for specialty crop growers and packers and farming tool, accessory, and surface manufacturers to develop and identify best management practices for inhibiting pathogen attachment and its transmission to consumers. The successful completion of the project will contribute towards enhancing the ability of specialty crop growers/packers to produce, pack, and market safe commodities for U.S. Consumers as the scri program seeks to accomplish.