GAP APPROVAL
GOOD AGRICULTURAL PRACTICE
GAP Approval
The application of existing knowledge to the sustainable use of natural resources for producing safe, healthy food and non-food agricultural products in a sustainable manner, while maintaining economic viability and social stability, defines the concept of Good Agricultural Practice (GAP).
GAP outlines standards of good agriculture within ten key resource areas and activities. This framework serves as a foundation for developing precise management recommendations for specific farming systems and integrated production systems within defined agro-ecosystems.
1. Soil
The physical, chemical, and biological structure of the soil is critical to sustaining agricultural output and fertility. Soil management must preserve and enhance soil fertility by minimizing nutrient and agrochemical losses caused by erosion, runoff, and leaching into surface or groundwater.
2. Water
Agricultural land use carries significant responsibility for both the quantitative and qualitative management of water resources to ensure long-term sustainability.
3. Crop and Fodder Production
Annual and perennial crops are selected for their adaptability to local conditions and their contribution to crop rotation, soil fertility, pest and disease control, available inputs, and market or consumer demands.
4. Crop Protection
Crop health is vital for achieving productive and high-quality yields. Long-term management includes using pest- and disease-resistant varieties, crop and pasture rotations, disease breaks for sensitive crops, and responsible use of agrochemicals in line with Integrated Pest Management principles.
5. Animal Production
Livestock must have adequate space, nutrition, and water to support both comfort and production efficiency.
6. Animal Health
Animal health is maintained through good management, housing, preventive care such as vaccination, and prompt treatment of illness under veterinary supervision when required.
7. Animal Welfare
Farm animals are sentient beings, and their well-being must always be respected. Good welfare means freedom from hunger and thirst, discomfort, pain, injury, or disease, and the ability to express natural behavior free from fear or distress.
8. Harvest, On-Farm Processing, and Storage
Product quality depends on the use of recognized practices during harvesting, storage, and processing. Proper handling and hygienic conditions help preserve product safety and integrity.
9. Energy and Waste Management
Farms require energy to power machinery for fieldwork, processing, and transportation. The aim is to perform operations efficiently, reduce manual labor, diversify energy sources, and minimize overall consumption while managing waste responsibly.
10. Human Welfare, Health, and Safety
Sustainable farming must be economically viable and socially responsible. The welfare, health, and safety of farmers, workers, and their communities are critical. Proper training, protective measures, and awareness are essential for a safe agricultural environment.
Benefits of GAP Approval from ACS Canada
-Demonstrates that your farm’s processes and traceability systems are properly designed and implemented.
-Proves that your GAP system poses no risk to products or consumers.
-Confirms that your GAP system aligns with international standards and recognized good practices.
-Reassures downstream partners, regulators, and inspection agencies of compliance and reliability.
-Supports compliance with agricultural and food safety regulations.
-Improves food safety throughout production and distribution.
-Enhances business awareness of operational risks and control measures.
-Builds consumer confidence by managing safety-critical control points effectively.
-Reduces complaints and negative publicity through preventive and corrective actions.
Contact ACS Canada Certification
If you have any questions or would like to begin your GAP Approval process, click below to email our team directly.
Email ACS Canada