ServSafe certification is a food safety training program developed by the National Restaurant Association (NRA) to educate restaurant workers and other food handlers about the best practices in food safety. The program offers several certification options, including ServSafe Food Handler certification, which is meant for people in employee-level positions in establishments that serve food. The ServSafe Food Handler program is comprehensive and provides training on the following Intended Learning Outcomes: Basic Food Safety, Personal Hygiene, Cross-Contamination and Allergens, Time & Temperature, & Cleaning and Sanitation.
The ServSafe Food Handler program includes an interactive course and a 40-question exam. The exam is a 40-question, non-proctored test that has no time limit, meaning test-takers may complete it at their own pace. On average, test-takers work through the exam within 90 minutes. Students must achieve at least a 75% score to receive the ServSafe Food Handler Certificate of Achievement, signifying that they successfully earned a certificate. The certificate is valid for three years.
The ServSafe Food Handler program is available online or in a classroom-style setting. The online program is available in English, Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, and Korean. The cost of the program varies depending on the state and the provider, but it is generally around $15.
It is important to note that state or employer requirements for food safety training can vary. In California, for example, employees who handle food must have a California Food Handler card on file with their employer within 30 days of hire. To obtain a card, they must complete the ServSafe California Food Handler program and pass the exam with a 75 percent or higher.
In summary, ServSafe certification is a food safety training program that provides comprehensive training on food safety practices. The program offers several certification options, including ServSafe Food Handler certification, which is meant for people in employee-level positions in establishments that serve food. The program includes an interactive course and a 40-question exam, and the certificate is valid for three years. The cost of the program varies depending on the state and the provider.
