It is important to be aware of potential food safety issues when food is prepared for the public at eateries, hospitals, schools, and other dining places. These issues can include cross-contamination and allergic reactions. So, food handler training certificates are in place to help address these challenges. The courses are generally internationally recognized and accredited by the International HACCP Alliance (IHA) and meet the guidelines of other credible institutions.

Types of food handlers training courses
Food handlers courses help participants increase awareness of food handling, design solutions to manage safety and handling hazards, understand preventive controls (SOPs), and learn about personal hygiene, food flow through a facility, food handling safety, and pest control essentials.

Food Delivery and Storage
This course is valuable for learning the basics of safely packing and transporting cold and hot food. It teaches methods for avoiding food spoilage and contamination. This is one of the critical food handlers courses that train students in the significant elements that ensure delivery is completed in compliance with all hygiene standards. A step-by-step guide is also provided to help the learners learn the best and most efficient ways to store food to keep it fresh for as long as possible.

Food Safety Hazards
There are specific standards and guidelines that each food handling business must follow to protect themselves and their customers. This course provides an introduction to the basics of food hazards and safety risk factors. These include in-depth learning on biological, physical, chemical, and allergenic factors. Some food handlers training course providers have made this training course attractive and engaging by adding quizzes and gamification features. Those interested can take up this course at their own pace.

Food Prep
It’s essential to prepare the food by following the food safety guidelines. The Food Prep Course provides comprehensive guidelines on food preparation so that it will be safe and hygienic for consumption. Here, the learners can learn how to wash their hands, thaw, reheat, and cool the food during the process. Additionally, it helps prevent the growth and breeding of harmful microorganisms and any food-borne illness. This food handlers course also provides the expert’s advice and recommendations.

Food Contamination
The food contamination course covers everything learners need to know about kitchen maintenance, food handling, and safety measures. Students can learn how to avoid food contamination and why it should be avoided at any cost. This course also provides an understanding of the various kinds of contamination, including physical, biological, allergic, and chemical contamination. Additionally, the food handlers training course helps learners gain knowledge about the best ways to prevent contamination and effectively serve food to customers to avoid food allergies and develop any health reactions. The course also discusses appropriate food regulation temperature to prevent food spoilage and best practices to eliminate potential pollutants in the kitchen.

Allergies and food intolerance in restaurants
Research has estimated that around 220 to 520 million people might experience various food allergies. This course is designed to educate learners about food allergies and intolerance and the best and most efficient practices to prevent accidents. It is an important course for kitchen crews, restaurant managers, wait staff, and others involved in food handling. Completing this course will help ensure the safety and security of the establishment.

Steps to earn a food handlers training certificate online
Let’s outline the steps required to obtain a food handlers training certificate online. While each state has its own requirements, we will provide general information on how to get a certificate online.

• Explore a training program
  Depending on the state laws, the learner can obtain the food handler’s certificate program by contacting the health department. Alternatively, the aspirant can also inquire with their employer if they are already in the food service industry. The individual needs to find an approved program that fits their schedule and meets their specific training needs.
• Complete the training
  The training varies by state and usually covers many topics, including food safety, personal hygiene, food allergies, cross-contamination, proper food storage principles, food-borne illnesses, cleaning, and sanitation, among others.
• Pass the exam
  After completing the training, the applicant has to pass the examination. Confirm the paper format, content, and duration, as these exams vary.
• Maintain the certificate
  The food handlers training certificate usually expires after two or three years. Thus, it is crucial to maintain the certificate and repeat the training after a particular period.

Proper food handling plays a vital role in the food industry. It saves the business from customer complaints and other potential financial and inventory losses. Providing the appropriate training to the staff helps avoid food poisoning and other accidents. While choosing suitable food training courses, it’s necessary to research, explore, and understand the cost.