A negative situation is brewing in Canada that could spread across borders and set back aquaponics' progress worldwide.CanadaGAP, a government-recognized food safety certification program, stated that it will withdraw CanadaGAP certification for Aquaponic production effective March 31, 2020.Unfortunately, the decision appears to be based on faulty and/or incomplete information:

"New information has come to light related to potential chemical hazards (antibiotics, for example) associated with aquaponic production. Further, there may be potential for leafy greens to uptake possible contaminants found in the water from the aquaculture production. Unfortunately, peer-reviewed scientific studies are limited at this time."

This decision strikes at the heart of all aquaponic growers. We must publish and maintain trustworthy information about our practice to ensure institutional support, rather than opposition.The Aquaponics Association is currently working with experts to compile the information needed to counter the false assumptions. We will make this information public as soon as possible. Please stay tuned.In the meantime, do you have information or data that supports the food safety of aquaponics? Email us at community@aquaponicsassociation.org.At the Putting Out Fruits Conference this September 20-22, we will talk about actions we can take together to support the advancement of aquaponics. And we'll discuss what our message needs to be to food safety regulators and other policy-makers that affect our practice.We're all in this together!Brian Filipowich, ChairmanAquaponics Association