Top 10 Food Worker Certifications

Certifications for food workers are extremely important in the job market because they demonstrate a worker’s knowledge and understanding of proper food safety and handling procedures. Certifications show employers that the employee is knowledgeable about food safety regulations, has been trained on the latest techniques, and is capable of following industry standards. Additionally, having a certification may also give an individual a competitive edge when applying for jobs and can open up more career opportunities. Finally, certifications can also provide peace of mind for customers as they know that the food they are eating is being handled safely.

The purpose of this article is to review the most beneficial certifications for food workers, and to explain how they can help advance a food worker's career.

What are Food Worker Certifications?

Food worker certification is a program that provides food safety training and testing to individuals who work in the food service industry. It is designed to ensure that those who handle food are knowledgeable about safe handling practices and are aware of the potential risks associated with improper food handling. Certification can be obtained through a variety of different organizations, including state health departments, local health departments, and private organizations.

Food worker certification can help reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses by ensuring that those working in the food service industry have the knowledge and skills necessary to safely prepare, store, and serve food. By having certified workers on staff, restaurants and other establishments can provide customers with safe and healthy meals. Additionally, certified workers may also be able to identify potential sources of contamination or other safety issues more quickly than non-certified workers. This can help prevent costly mistakes from occurring in the kitchen or dining area. In some cases, having certified workers on staff may also help an establishment qualify for discounts on their insurance premiums or other benefits offered by their insurer.

Pro Tip: Make sure you have the proper food worker certification before handling food, as this will ensure that you are up-to-date on the latest safety and hygiene practices.

Related: What does a Food Worker do?

Top 10 Food Worker Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Food Workers today.

1. ServSafe Food Handler Certification

ServSafe Food Handler Certification is a nationally recognized certification program that provides food handlers with the necessary knowledge and skills to safely handle and prepare food. It is designed to help protect consumers from foodborne illness by teaching food handlers how to properly store, prepare, and serve food.

The certification process typically takes about two hours and can be completed online or in-person. The online version consists of an interactive course that covers topics such as personal hygiene, cross-contamination, temperature control, and cleaning/sanitizing. After completing the course, you will take a multiple-choice exam which must be passed with a score of 70% or higher in order to receive your certification.

In-person courses are also available through ServSafe’s network of certified instructors. These courses cover the same topics as the online version but include additional hands-on activities such as role-playing scenarios and demonstrations. At the end of the in-person course, you will take a proctored exam which must be passed with a score of 75% or higher in order to receive your certification.

The cost for ServSafe Food Handler Certification varies depending on whether you complete the course online or in-person. The online version typically costs around $15-$20 while the in-person version may cost anywhere from $50-$100 depending on where you take it.

Once you have successfully completed either the online or in-person course, you will receive your ServSafe Food Handler Certificate which is valid for three years from the date of issue.

2. National Registry of Food Safety Professionals (NRFSP) Certification

The National Registry of Food Safety Professionals (NRFSP) Certification is a voluntary certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated knowledge in food safety and sanitation practices. It is designed to provide assurance to employers, regulatory agencies, and the public that certified individuals have achieved a certain level of competency in food safety and sanitation.

To become NRFSP-certified, an individual must pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as foodborne illness prevention, HACCP principles, personal hygiene, food safety regulations, and more. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete.

To get NRFSP-certified, an individual must register for the exam online or by phone. Once registered, the individual will receive an email with instructions on how to access the exam. After taking the exam, results are available immediately upon completion. Those who pass will be issued an official certificate from NRFSP that can be used for employment verification or other purposes.

The cost of becoming NRFSP-certified varies depending on where you take the exam; however, it typically ranges from $125-$175 USD per person.

3. Certified Professional Food Manager (CPFM) Certification

Certified Professional Food Manager (CPFM) Certification is a certification program designed to help food service professionals demonstrate their knowledge and skills in the safe handling of food. It is recognized by the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF). The CPFM certification is based on the ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification Exam, which is developed by the NRAEF and administered by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).

The CPFM certification requires that individuals pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as food safety regulations, foodborne illness prevention, and proper sanitation practices. The exam consists of 90 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within two hours. To qualify for the CPFM certification, applicants must have at least two years of experience in a supervisory or managerial role in a foodservice establishment.

In order to obtain the CPFM certification, applicants must register for the exam through an approved provider. Once registered, they will receive study materials and access to online practice exams. After studying for the exam and completing any necessary prerequisites, applicants can take the exam at an approved testing center.

The cost of obtaining a CPFM certification varies depending on where you take your exam and whether or not you purchase additional study materials or practice exams. Generally speaking, it typically costs between $100-$200 USD to take the exam itself. Additional fees may apply if you purchase additional study materials or practice exams.

4. Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) Certification

Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) Certification is a certification program that provides the foodservice industry with qualified and trained professionals who can help ensure safe food handling practices in their establishments. The CFPM certification is awarded by the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF).

The CFPM certification is a voluntary program that requires individuals to complete an approved training course and pass an exam. The training course typically takes between 8-12 hours to complete, depending on the provider and the length of the course. Once completed, individuals must pass an exam administered by a third-party certifying agency such as Prometric or ServSafe.

To become certified, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements which include being 18 years of age or older, having at least one year of experience in food safety management, and possessing a high school diploma or equivalent. Applicants must also submit an application to the NRAEF along with payment for processing fees and any applicable exam fees.

The cost of obtaining a CFPM certification varies depending on the provider and type of course taken. Generally speaking, courses range from $100 - $200 for online courses and up to $500 for in-person classes. Exam fees are typically around $50 - $75 per attempt.

5. HACCP Training and Certification

HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) Training and Certification is a food safety program designed to identify and prevent potential food safety hazards. It is based on the principles of hazard analysis, preventive controls, and monitoring procedures. The goal of HACCP certification is to help ensure that food products are safe for consumption by identifying potential hazards in the production process and implementing corrective actions to reduce or eliminate those risks.

HACCP training typically includes lectures, hands-on activities, and exams. Depending on the program, it can take anywhere from one day to several weeks to complete the training. Most programs require participants to pass an exam in order to receive their certification.

In order to get HACCP certification, individuals must first complete an approved course of study. This can be done through a variety of sources including online courses, in-person classes, or seminars. Once the course has been completed successfully, individuals must then take an exam in order to receive their certification.

The cost of HACCP training and certification varies depending on the provider and length of the program. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $200-$1,000 USD for a single person’s certification. For organizations looking for group rates or multiple certifications, costs may be higher depending on the size of the group and number of certifications needed.

6. Allergen Awareness Training and Certification

Allergen Awareness Training and Certification is a program designed to educate food service professionals on the potential risks of allergen contamination in food. This training covers topics such as identifying allergens, understanding the severity of allergic reactions, and correctly labeling foods to avoid cross-contamination. The program also provides information on how to create an allergen-safe environment in the workplace.

The Allergen Awareness Training and Certification typically takes around 2-3 hours to complete. It can be taken online or in person, depending on the provider. The cost of the course varies depending on the provider, but usually ranges from $50-$100 USD.

In order to get certified, individuals must complete a certification exam at the end of the course. Upon successful completion, participants will receive a certificate that is valid for two years from date of issue.

7. National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) Certification

The National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) is an independent, non-profit organization that certifies products and systems for safety and performance. NSF certification is a voluntary process that helps manufacturers demonstrate compliance with public health and safety standards. It involves rigorous testing, inspection, and auditing of the product or system to ensure it meets the requirements set forth by NSF International.

It typically takes between four to six weeks to get an NSF certification, depending on the complexity of the product or system being tested. The process begins with an application submission, followed by a review of the product or system design and documentation. Afterward, an on-site audit is conducted to verify compliance with applicable standards. Finally, if all criteria are met, the product or system will be certified by NSF International.

The cost of getting NSF certification varies depending on the type of product or system being tested and the number of tests required for certification. Generally speaking, it can range from several hundred dollars up to several thousand dollars.

In addition to providing assurance that a product or system meets public health and safety standards, having an NSF certification can also help manufacturers gain access to new markets as well as increase consumer confidence in their products.

8. American Culinary Federation (ACF) Certification

The American Culinary Federation (ACF) is a professional organization for chefs and cooks that promotes the culinary profession through education, certification, apprenticeship, and networking. ACF Certification is a way to demonstrate an individual’s knowledge and skills in the culinary profession. This certification process includes passing written exams, completing practical assessments, and meeting other requirements.

The length of time it takes to obtain ACF Certification depends on the level of certification sought. For entry-level certifications such as Certified Culinarian or Certified Pastry Culinarian, it can take up to one year to complete the process. For higher-level certifications such as Certified Executive Chef or Certified Master Chef, it can take up to three years or more to complete the process.

To get ACF Certification, individuals must first join the American Culinary Federation. After joining, individuals must meet certain prerequisites for each level of certification they are seeking. These prerequisites may include completing specific courses or having a certain number of years of experience in the culinary profession. Once these prerequisites have been met, individuals must then register for and pass a written exam and practical assessment related to their desired certification level.

The cost of obtaining ACF Certification varies depending on the level of certification sought. Entry-level certifications typically cost around $200-$300 while higher-level certifications can cost upwards of $1,000 or more. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking written exams or attending seminars related to specific levels of certification.

9. Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) Credential

A Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) is a professional credential that demonstrates a mastery of the principles and practices of foodservice management. The CDM credential requires knowledge and experience in nutrition, foodservice operations, personnel management, financial management, and customer service.

The CDM credential is offered through the Certification Board for Nutrition Specialists (CBNS). To be eligible for the CDM credential, applicants must have a minimum of three years of full-time work experience in foodservice management or an associate’s degree in dietetics or nutrition, plus one year of full-time work experience in foodservice management.

The certification process typically takes about four to six months from start to finish. To obtain the CDM credential, applicants must first register with CBNS and submit an application form along with their supporting documentation. After registering, applicants will receive instructions on how to prepare for the exam and complete their application. Once approved by CBNS, applicants can take the exam at any Prometric testing center across the United States.

The cost to obtain the CDM credential is approximately $400-$500 dollars depending on when you register for your exam. This fee includes registration fees, study materials and exam costs.

10. Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) Training and Certification

Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) Training and Certification is a program that provides food safety professionals with the knowledge and skills to identify, assess, and control food safety hazards. It is a preventative system that helps to ensure the safety of food products by focusing on the prevention of biological, chemical, and physical hazards in the production process.

The HACCP training typically takes two days to complete and involves both classroom instruction and hands-on activities. The course covers topics such as hazard analysis, prerequisite programs, critical control points (CCPs), corrective actions, verification procedures, record keeping, validation procedures, and more.

To get certified in HACCP training you must complete an accredited course from a recognized provider. After completing the course you will need to pass an exam in order to receive your certification.

The cost of HACCP training and certification varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $500-$1000 USD.

Do You Really Need a Food Worker Certificate?

When it comes to handling food, safety is paramount. Food worker certificates are a way for employers to make sure that their employees are trained in safe food handling practices. A food worker certificate is usually awarded after an individual has completed a course or program approved by the local health department. This training covers everything from proper hand-washing techniques and food storage to sanitation methods and food safety guidelines.

The answer to whether or not you need a food worker certificate depends on your occupation. If you are working in a restaurant or other establishment that serves food, then it is likely required by law that you have one. Even if it isn’t required by law, having one can be beneficial as it shows potential employers that you have been properly trained in safe food handling practices and can be trusted with customers’ health and safety.

In addition to restaurants, many other types of businesses require employees to have a food worker certificate, such as catering companies, schools, hospitals, nursing homes, daycares, and more. Having this certification may even give you an edge over other candidates when applying for jobs in these industries.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a food worker certificate depends on your situation and what type of job you are applying for. While having one can give you an advantage when looking for certain types of jobs, it may not be necessary for others. In the end, it is up to each individual to determine if obtaining a food worker certificate will benefit them in their career path.

Related: Food Worker Resume Examples

FAQs About Food Worker Certifications

1. What is a food worker certification?

Answer: A food worker certification is a credential that verifies a food handler has taken and passed an approved training course in proper food safety practices, such as preventing contamination and cross-contamination of food.

2. Do I need to be certified to work in the food industry?

Answer: It depends on your state or local jurisdiction; some states require all food handlers to be certified, while others only require managers and supervisors to have a certification.

3. How do I get a food worker certification?

Answer: You can take an approved training course offered through your local health department or other accredited organizations, or you can take an online course from an accredited provider.

4. How often do I need to renew my food worker certification?

Answer: The renewal period for most certifications is two years, but it may vary depending on your state or local jurisdiction.

5. Is there any cost associated with getting certified?

Answer: Yes, there may be fees associated with taking the training courses and/or receiving the actual certificate of completion.