Food Safety Certification Training

Food handlers, grocery store owners and restaurant managers that prepare or serve unpackaged food must pass certification training and possess a solid understanding of food safety practices. With the help of audiotapes, videos, online training, private classes and written tests, students prepare for food safety exams to earn accredited certificates. To receive certification in food safety training, a student must pass an exam with a score of 75 percent or higher.

Significance

• From small business owners to chefs at national restaurant chains, food safety certification training helps individuals gain the necessary food-related knowledge and learn approved practices required by law.

Function

• Each state upholds its own set of food safety certification requirements--an effort to monitor the actions of service employees and ensure healthy food preparation.

Features

• Food safety training topics generally center on the causes of food-related illnesses, employee hygiene, pest control and the appropriate methods of storing, preparing, cooking and serving food.

Materials

• Training materials associated with food safety certification include study guides, work booklets, sample tests, CDs and online review sessions.

Considerations

• Re-certification training is offered in cities, such as Washington DC, where state laws require the renewal of food safety certification every 3 years.