In the bustling world of the food industry, ensuring the safety of consumers is paramount. Like many states, Texas recognises the significance of this responsibility and has established stringent guidelines for food handlers.
Understanding the who, what, and how of food handler certification is essential to navigating the Texas food establishment rules.
Key Takeaways
- A Texas Food Handler certification is a legal requirement for individuals preparing and maintaining food contact surfaces.
- The certification is typically valid for two years and must be renewed to continue working in the food industry.
- The Texas Food Handler course covers critical topics, including food safety, personal hygiene, and cross-contamination prevention.
- In certain cases, dishwashers and other non-food-handling roles are also required to obtain a Texas Food Handler certificate to ensure the safety of food contact surfaces and equipment.
What types of employees are considered food handlers in Texas?
In the Lone Star State, a “food handler” refers to a food employee or any individual who works in food service establishments and is involved in food preparation, storage, or serving. This term encompasses diverse professions, from cooks and servers to dishwashers and bartenders, emphasizing the broad scope of food handlers in Texas.
Do You Need a Food Handler’s Card to Bartend in Texas?
Yes, bartenders are considered food workers and must have a Food Handlers Permit. If you don’t have one already, the state allows 60 days to get certified from starting employment.
You can obtain Texas-approved Food Handler Certification online through 360Training.
Who Needs a Food Handler’s Card in Texas?
Food Handler Training: A Prerequisite
In Texas, having a food handler card is not just a recommended best practice; it’s a legal requirement. The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) mandates that all food employees obtain a food handler card from an accredited training program, as defined in the Texas Food Establishment Rules, within 60 days of starting employment.
Exemptions and Special Cases
While the full training requirement is broad, some exemptions and special cases exist, such as individuals working in rehabilitation or correctional facilities. These individuals may be excluded from the food handler certification mandate, but checking with the local health department for precise guidelines is advisable.
Do Dishwashers Need a Food Handler’s Card in Texas?
Even dishwashers, who may not directly handle food, must have a food handler card in Texas. They are integral to maintaining the cleanliness and safety of food contact surfaces and equipment, which are critical aspects of food safety. Texas uses the FDA definition of “food employee”, which includes any “individual working with unpackaged food, food equipment or utensils, or food-contact surfaces.”
How do you get a food handlers certificate in Texas?
Steps to Obtain Your Food Handler Certification
Getting your Texas Food Handlers certificate is a straightforward process. You can choose between online training or in-person classes, and the Texas Food Handler program and certification program is designed to be accessible, allowing you to complete it at your own pace. There are a few essential requirements to keep in mind.
You can obtain Texas-approved Food Handler Certification online through 360Training.
Minimum Age for Food Handlers Card in Texas
There is no minimum age to apply for a food handler card in Texas (source). However, to work in a restaurant, you must be at least 14 or 15 (source).
Does the State of Texas Require a Food Handlers License?
Food Handler Card vs. Food Manager Certificate
It’s important to distinguish between a food handler card and a food manager certificate. While food handlers primarily engage in direct food preparation and handling, certified food managers or managers oversee the entire food establishment’s operations, including training and supervising food employees.
You can obtain Texas-approved Food Manager Certification online through 360Training.
Who Needs a Food Manager Certificate in Texas?
In contrast to food handlers, certified food managers supervise and manage food employees. Therefore, they are required to obtain a certified food manager’s certificate to ensure the overall safety of the establishment.
Texas Food Handler Card Requirements
Eligibility Criteria and Documentation
You must provide the necessary documentation to demonstrate your eligibility for a Texas Food Handler card. Typically, this includes proof of identity, age, and completion of an accredited food handler training program.
Fees and Registration Process
The cost of obtaining a food handler card varies by training provider. It is advisable to compare fees and check for any additional requirements. The registration process is usually straightforward, with many providers offering online registration.
Texas Food Handlers License Renewal
Food handler certifications in Texas are typically valid for two years. After this period, you must renew your certification to continue working in the food industry. The renewal process usually involves completing a shorter refresher course and passing a final exam.
Is Your Texas Food Handler Card Expired or Lost?
Handling Expired or Lost Certificates
If you misplace your Texas Food Handlers card or it expires, don’t panic. You can contact the training provider or revisit the platform where you completed your initial training to obtain a duplicate or renew your certification.
Renewal Process
The renewal process ensures that food handlers stay updated with the latest food safety guidelines. It typically involves taking a shorter refresher course and passing a final exam.
How do I get a food handler certification in Texas?
The training program for Texas food handlers covers essential topics such as proper hygiene, safe food handling practices, food-related items and the prevention of foodborne illnesses. Accredited training providers ensure you receive a comprehensive education in these critical areas.
Approved Providers
The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) maintains a list of approved training providers. When seeking certification, ensure you choose a provider from this list to guarantee your training meets the state’s requirements.
You can obtain Texas-approved Food Handler Certification online through 360Training.
Examination Details
You must pass a final exam to complete your Texas Food Handlers certification. This exam assesses your understanding of food safety principles and ensures you are ready to handle food professionally.
How Long is a Food Handler’s Permit Valid For?
A food handler’s card is typically valid for two years. You’ll need to renew it before it expires to continue working in the food industry.
Renewal Process
Renewing your certification involves taking a shorter refresher course, usually a few hours, and passing a final exam. This process helps you stay updated on food safety standards and regulations.
Required Training for Texas Food Handlers
The curriculum is designed to provide a solid foundation in food safety. Topics covered include personal hygiene, cross-contamination prevention, and safe food handling practices.
Topics Covered in the Training
The training delves into various areas, including the importance of proper handwashing, avoiding cross-contamination, the safe storage of food, and preventing foodborne illnesses. By the end of the online course, you’ll understand food safety principles comprehensively.
What’s Covered in the Texas Food Handler Course?
Course Content and Objectives
The Texas Food Handler course covers a wide range of topics aimed at ensuring food safety in the food industry. These include but are not limited to preventing foodborne illnesses, proper hygiene practices, and the safe handling of food equipment and food utensils.
Importance of Food Safety Knowledge
A strong foundation in food safety knowledge is crucial for anyone working in the food industry. The course equips food handlers with the skills and knowledge necessary to protect consumers’ health and uphold Texas state law’s standards.
Conclusion: Embracing Food Safety in Texas
Ensuring food safety and consumers’ well-being is a collective responsibility of food establishments in Texas. The state’s stringent requirements for food handlers and the certification process are instrumental in maintaining high food safety standards. Individuals contribute to a safer food industry by obtaining and renewing their food handlers card.
For more information on food handling requirements for bartenders and other restaurant staff, see this article.
FAQ
What is a Texas Food Handler certification?
A food handlers card is a credential that food handlers in Texas must obtain, demonstrating their knowledge of food safety and hygiene.
You can obtain Texas-approved Food Handler Certification online through 360Training.
Who needs a Texas Food Handlers certificate?
Texas food handlers must obtain a food handler certificate, including those involved in food preparation and maintenance of food contact surfaces.
How long is a Texas Food Handler certification valid?
A food handlers card is typically valid for two years. It must be renewed before it expires to continue working in the food industry.
Are there any exemptions from the Texas Food Handler certification requirement?
Some individuals, such as those working in rehabilitation or correctional facilities, may be exempt from the certification requirement. It’s advisable to check with the local health department for specific guidelines.
