Reading the tables
Each table sets out one row per standard or audit point. The columns tell you:
- Standard and Audit point – the reference code, so you can quote it in your feedback
- Applicable crop risk categories – the risk category of crop the requirement applies to (see below)
- Documents required – the record or document an assessor would ask to see
- Standard / audit point status – what is happening to this requirement
- Explanation – how the standard or audit point is proposed to change
Where a column does not apply to a particular row, it shows N/A.
Crops risk matrix
The Red Tractor Fresh Produce sector covers a wide variety of crops and assigns a risk category to each to ensure standards are proportionate to food safety risk. Broadly, these categories are as follows:
| Category | Crop type description | Risk level | Example crops |
|---|
| 0 | Sprouted seeds and seedlings | Highest | Salad cress, micro leaves |
| 1 | Usually eaten raw, with the edible part close to or in contact with the ground | High | Lettuce, spinach, watercress |
| 2 | Usually eaten raw, but with natural protection or separation from the ground | Medium | Apples, carrots, tomatoes |
| 3 | Normally cooked before eating | Lower | Potatoes, leeks, swedes |
