State Requirements for Food Handler Certification Explained – Technologist

Ensuring proper safety is critical to running a successful food and beverage establishment. This guide will help you understand how to obtain a food handler’s card for yourself and your small business employees.

Why is Food Safety Important?

Proper food safety procedures are essential to running a thriving food and drink establishment. As a small business owner, you should ensure that you and your employees have the appropriate food safety training before opening your restaurant, bakery, or deli.

When Do You Need a Food Handler’s Card or License?

If your business makes or serves food, you and your employees will likely need to undergo food safety training. This training covers basic food safety knowledge, such as ensuring food is cooked to an appropriate temperature, implementing food safety measures, and preventing exposure to foodborne illnesses.

What Safety Measures Are Covered in Food Handler’s Card Classes?

• Safe Cooking, Serving, and Storage Techniques
• Cleaning Food-Contact Surfaces
• Temperature Specifics for Different Types of Food
• Proper Attire for Food Preparation
• Safe Waste Handling and Disposal Techniques
• Checking Expiration Dates and Managing Expired Food
• Proper Handwashing Techniques
• Preventing Illnesses from Improper Food Handling

These training programs cover FAQs about public health and prepare you and your employees to run a successful food service establishment.

How to Determine If Your Business Needs a Food Handling License

There are two different types of certifications: food handlers cards for employees and food manager certifications for leadership or those overseeing operations. States determine which certification is required and who qualifies for which certification.

What is the Role of the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB)?

The ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB) is the largest accrediting food safety agency in the United States, certifying many eligible training courses nationwide. Some states require employees working with food to obtain an ANAB-accredited card.

How to Get a Food Handling License

Most U.S. states require food service employees to have a food handlers permit, often called a “food handlers license” or “food handlers card.” The certification is typically obtained by attending a food safety training course and passing a final exam on food safety basics.

What is the Process to Obtain a Food Handler’s Card?

1. Attend a Food Safety Training Course: Online or in-person.
2. Pass the Final Exam: Covering basics of food safety.
3. Receive a Certificate of Completion: And an actual food handlers card or license.

How to Find Food Safety Training Courses

Many companies offer online ANSI-accredited food safety courses, providing great flexibility and sometimes available in other languages, such as Spanish and Arabic. Local health departments also provide in-person food safety training courses.

Where Can You Find Accredited Courses?

The United States Department of Agriculture can help connect you with your local health department. Alternatively, you can search online for “food handler training course near me” to find convenient locations. Ensure the class is accredited based on your local requirements.

How Do Food Handling License Requirements Vary by State?

Each state has different requirements for businesses that serve food and their employees. Certain cities and counties have additional rules and requirements.

Examples of State-Specific Requirements

• Florida: Requires a designated “Food Manager” certification and other employees to obtain a food safety certification within 60 days of employment.
• Oklahoma: No mandatory food handler requirements for employees, but each establishment must have a trained employee overseeing food safety.
• California: Requires all employees handling food to obtain a California Food Handler Card within 30 days of starting a job.
• Texas: Requires all employees to obtain a food handlers card within 30 days of employment.
• Arizona: Specific requirements for food safety courses, but counties decide their own requirements.

What Types of Insurance Coverage Do Food Handlers Need?

Food service businesses benefit from various insurance policies to protect the establishment, employees, and customers.

Essential Insurance Policies for Food Service Businesses

1. Workers’ Compensation Insurance: Required in most states for businesses with more than one employee.
2. Commercial Auto Policy: For businesses using company vehicles.
3. General Liability Insurance: Protects against customer injuries, property damage, and potential lawsuits.
4. Liquor Liability Insurance: For businesses serving alcohol.
5. Cyber Insurance: For businesses taking online payments or maintaining a mailing list.

Where to Find Insurance for Food and Beverage Service

Ensuring your restaurant and employees comply with local food handler safety requirements is crucial to protect your customers and your business investment. For more information on the best insurance policies for your food and restaurant establishment, visit Inszone Insurance Services for an easy online application. Our licensed insurance agents will gladly set you up with insurance policies to meet your needs and budget, often within 24 hours.

Sources:

1. USDA Food Safety Training
2. ANSI National Accreditation Board
3. State-specific Food Handler Requirements
4. Inszone Insurance Services

By following these guidelines and obtaining the necessary certifications and insurance, you can ensure the safety and success of your food and beverage establishment.

Commercial Lines Account Manager

Kyle Vidovich is a Commercial Lines Account Manager at Inszone Insurance Services, joining Inszone in April 2024. With a Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology from Cal State Fullerton, Kyle transitioned to commercial insurance after being inspired by his wife’s career in the industry. His background includes 8 years in the service and hospitality industry, where he honed his customer relations skills.

In his previous role, Kyle spent 7 years in sales and management, supervising 75 staff and overseeing the largest taproom in Orange County. He is passionate about customer service and aims to treat each business as his own, providing tailored coverage solutions.

Outside of work, Kyle enjoys playing competitive hockey for over 30 years and is an avid guitarist who performs locally with his band.

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