ERG-Developed Tool Assesses Massachusetts Food Processing Amid COVID-19 Pandemic

At the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, ERG developed an online assessment tool for the Massachusetts Department of Public Health’s Food Protection Program to evaluate the operational status and current practices of food processing facilities in the state. ERG helped implement the tool and has provided ongoing support, including developing departmental procedures, offering technical assistance, and reporting findings. In addition, ERG has refined the tool to remain consistent with the most up-to-date COVID-19 guidance for industry operations and reopening protocols. ERG is currently supporting the Food Protection Program with further use and expansion of the tool, with a potential extension through the end of 2021.