Michigan Agricultural Processing Act

The Generally Accepted Processing Practices are scientifically based guidelines for the commercial preparation of dairy, fruit, grains, meat, and vegetables. Food processors can compare, improve, and update their methods as scientific understanding and economic conditions evolve.

The GAPPs help voluntarily mitigate potential nuisance conditions, promote sound management of agricultural inputs, and support a strong and stable food supply. An example of a GAPP is using management techniques to maintain an average noise level of no greater than 75 decibels at property lines during an 8-hour period to protect neighbors.

Read the Current Generally Accepted Processing Practices: The GAPPs are written to provide uniform, statewide standards and acceptable management practices based on standard industry practices.

Proposed Draft GAPPs

The GAPPs are currently undergoing revision. You may read the proposed 2027 Generally Accepted Processing Practices online.

MDARD will accept public input on the proposed GAPPs until August 30, 2026. If you would like to submit public comment for the draft GAPPs, you can:

• Submit comments online
• Email RDARD-RTF@michigan.gov
• Mail written comments to the MDARD Right to Farm Program, P. O. Box 30017, Lansing, MI 48909
• Attend a virtual public meeting on August 27, 2026 at 1 p.m. EDT

Comments will become part of the public record and will be submitted to the commission of Agriculture and the GAPPs advisory committee, which is independent of MDARD.

The GAPPs advisory committee will review all public input and present recommendations to the Michigan Commission of Agriculture and Rural Development. The commission will discuss the proposed revisions at its September commission meeting.

Additional Resources

Michigan Agricultural Processing Act (1998 PA 381): This statute requires the establishment of generally accepted fruit, vegetable, dairy, meat and grain processing practices. 

Questions? Comments?