In simple terms, a “Food Manager” is a person who is responsible for the daily operation and food establishment. A food manager has direct authority, control, or supervision over employees who engage in the storage, preparation, or service of foods. 

Likewise, a “Certified Food Manager” has passed a written certification test approved by the Department, demonstrating a basic knowledge of food protection practices to avoid foodborne illnesses.

What is a safe food handling course?

A safe food handling certification course is best described as everything involved in the handling, preparation, storage, or services of food in such a way that helps to prevent foodborne illnesses. A state must approve a food handler training course, and only a certified trainer is eligible to train a student. 

A registered dietary technician, certified food manager, licensed dietician e.t.c are qualified to train in nutrition and food-service management. This includes: 

• Having a deep understanding of how unhygienic food can make people sick with various factors.
• How to maintain a sanitary hygienic environment?
• How to store food properly?

What are the key responsibilities of a Certified Food Manager?

Food handlers are responsible for cooking, preparing, serving, packing, displaying, and storing food. A key responsibility is to control, and prevent potential food hazards from occurring, to minimize the risk of individuals becoming sick. Here are a few: 

• Ensures food safety and familiar with all types of food hazard
• Understand the foundational behaviors, tactics, and practices that keep food safe 
• Be prepared to teach and train employees on safe food practices 
• Ensure sanitary and hygiene practices among the service area
• Collaboration with other teams
• Understand safety programs

How does one become a Certified Food Manager in Florida?

To become a certified food manager, an individual must successfully pass a certification examination in compliance with the Department of Health requirements. An approved test provider is responsible for the certification examination or competency test. 

An approved provider helps you to get an application. The Department of Health does not require individuals to attend an examination preparation or training course. However, approved test providers should offer courses, study guides, and other helpful materials for better preparation.

• Make sure to contact the approved test provider for times, dates, and cost of the examination as well as ordering training materials and scheduling a preparation course.
• Make sure you request the food manager certification test information from the Florida Department of Health since these providers do offer examinations for other food-related programs. 
• Successful participants can later issue a certificate from test providers.

      Visit Florida Department For Health For More.