Top 11 Kitchen Steward Certifications

Certifications for kitchen stewards are important in the job market because they demonstrate to employers that an individual has the knowledge and skills necessary to be successful in a kitchen steward role. Certification programs provide a standardized way for individuals to demonstrate their understanding of food safety and sanitation standards, as well as their ability to effectively manage inventory and equipment. Additionally, certifications can help employers ensure that the kitchen steward they hire is knowledgeable and capable of executing their duties in a safe and efficient manner.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Kitchen Stewards and explains how they can contribute to a kitchen steward's career advancement.

What are Kitchen Steward Certifications?

Kitchen Steward Certification is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have achieved a level of proficiency in kitchen stewarding. Kitchen stewards are responsible for the daily cleaning, sanitation and maintenance of commercial kitchens, including food-service equipment, dishwashing areas and other areas related to food preparation. The certification program was created by the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF) to provide recognition and encourage best practices in kitchen stewarding.

By obtaining kitchen steward certification, individuals demonstrate their commitment to excellence in their profession and gain the respect of their employers. Certified kitchen stewards can take pride in knowing they possess the knowledge and skills needed to keep commercial kitchens clean, organized and safe. Certification also provides job security as employers are more likely to hire certified professionals over non-certified candidates. Additionally, certified kitchen stewards may be eligible for higher wages due to their increased knowledge and expertise. Finally, having a nationally recognized certification demonstrates a commitment to continuing education which can lead to career advancement opportunities.

Pro Tip: Take advantage of online kitchen steward certification courses to gain a better understanding of the industry and ensure that you're up-to-date on all safety protocols and best practices. This will help you stand out as an applicant and increase your chances of success in the field.

Related: What does a Kitchen Steward do?

Top 11 Kitchen Steward Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Kitchen Stewards today.

1. Food Safety Certification

Food Safety Certification is a certification program that ensures food safety practices are in place to protect the public from foodborne illnesses. It is designed to ensure that food products are safe and free from contamination.

The length of time it takes to get Food Safety Certification depends on the type of certification being sought and the complexity of the process. Generally, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months to complete the process.

To get Food Safety Certification, businesses must first identify their needs and determine which type of certification is best for them. They then need to contact an accredited certifying body and provide documentation such as operational procedures and records, staff training records, and product testing results. Once all documents have been submitted, an auditor will conduct an on-site assessment of the business’s operations. If all requirements are met, the business will be issued with a Food Safety Certificate.

The cost of obtaining Food Safety Certification varies depending on factors such as the size of the business, number of employees, and type of certification being sought. Generally speaking, costs range from several hundred dollars up to several thousand dollars for more complex processes.

2. ServSafe Certification

ServSafe Certification is a food safety certification program developed by the National Restaurant Association. It is designed to help restaurant owners and employees understand and implement safe food handling practices in their establishments.

The certification process consists of an online course, followed by a proctored exam. The online course typically takes between 4-6 hours to complete, depending on the individual's learning pace. After completing the course, individuals must register for a proctored exam at an approved testing center. The exam consists of 90 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete.

To get certified, individuals must pass the ServSafe Food Protection Manager Exam with a score of 75% or higher. Individuals can register for the exam through the National Restaurant Association website or through an approved testing center. The cost of the exam varies depending on location but generally ranges from $100-$150 USD.

3. Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) Certification

Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) Certification is an internationally recognized certification program that helps food businesses identify and control food safety hazards. It is based on the principles of hazard analysis, preventive controls, and monitoring systems to ensure food safety.

HACCP Certification requires a thorough review of the business’s existing processes, procedures, and policies related to food safety. The process includes identifying potential hazards in the production process, establishing critical control points (CCPs), setting limits for each CCP, and developing corrective action plans when limits are exceeded. The business must then develop a HACCP plan that outlines all of these steps.

The time it takes to get HACCP Certification can vary depending on the size and complexity of the organization’s operations. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from three months to one year to complete the process.

To get HACCP Certification, businesses must first contact an accredited certification body such as NSF International or SGS North America. These organizations will assess the business’s existing processes and procedures related to food safety and provide guidance on how to become compliant with HACCP standards. They will also provide training materials for employees so they understand how to implement the HACCP plan correctly.

The cost of getting HACCP Certification varies depending on factors such as the size of the organization, its existing processes and procedures related to food safety, and any additional services needed from a certification body such as training or consulting services. Generally speaking, it can range from $500-$5,000 USD for small businesses up to tens of thousands for larger organizations.

4. Kitchen Sanitation Certification

Kitchen Sanitation Certification is a certification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices in the kitchen. It is required by many employers for those working in the foodservice industry, such as restaurants, catering companies, and other food-related businesses.

The certification process typically takes about two to three hours to complete, depending on the level of detail needed. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions related to topics such as proper food handling techniques, cleaning and sanitizing equipment, and identifying potential sources of contamination.

To get certified, individuals must first register with a certifying organization such as ServSafe or National Registry of Food Safety Professionals. After registering, they will be given access to study materials and practice tests which can be used to prepare for the exam. Once ready, they can take the exam either online or in person at a testing center.

The cost of Kitchen Sanitation Certification varies depending on the certifying organization and any additional services requested (such as proctoring fees). Generally speaking, it is around $100-$200 for the basic certification package.

5. Cross-Contamination Prevention Certification

Cross-Contamination Prevention Certification is a certification program that ensures the safety of food products, reducing the risk of cross-contamination between different types of food. It is designed to help food businesses comply with all applicable food safety regulations and ensure that their products are safe for consumption.

To get Cross-Contamination Prevention Certification, businesses must first complete an application process and provide evidence of their compliance with all relevant regulations. The application process typically takes about two weeks to complete, depending on the complexity of the business’s operations. Once the application is approved, businesses must then undergo an audit by a third-party auditor who will assess their practices and procedures to ensure they meet the standards set out in the certification program. This audit typically takes 2-3 days to complete.

The cost of obtaining Cross-Contamination Prevention Certification varies depending on the size and complexity of a business’s operations. Generally speaking, it can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.

6. Food Allergy Awareness Certification

Food Allergy Awareness Certification is a program designed to help individuals become knowledgeable and proficient in recognizing, understanding, and managing food allergies. This certification is offered through the Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network (FAAN).

The certification program consists of an online course that takes approximately 4-6 hours to complete. The course covers topics such as food allergy basics, risk factors, symptoms and reactions, diagnosis and management, emergency action plans, label reading, cross-contact prevention, and advocacy. Upon completion of the course there is a multiple-choice exam which must be passed in order to receive certification.

In order to get certified you must register for the course on FAAN’s website. The cost for the course is $50 USD. Once you have registered and paid for the course you will be given access to the online material which includes videos, slideshows, quizzes, and other resources. After completing all of the material you can take the multiple-choice exam which must be passed with a score of 80% or higher in order to receive your certification.

Once you have successfully completed all of the requirements you will receive your Food Allergy Awareness Certification from FAAN which is valid for two years.

7. Food Storage and Temperature Control Certification

Food Storage and Temperature Control Certification is a certification program designed to help food service workers understand the basics of safe food handling and storage. It covers topics such as proper temperature control, storage techniques, and how to prevent contamination.

The Food Storage and Temperature Control Certification program typically takes about four hours to complete. During this time, participants learn about the different types of food-borne illnesses, the importance of proper temperature control, and how to store foods safely. They also learn about the different types of food storage containers and their uses. In addition, they are taught how to properly label and date food items in order to ensure they are not contaminated or spoiled.

To get Food Storage and Temperature Control Certification, individuals must attend an approved training course or take an online course. After completing the course, participants will receive a certificate that is valid for three years from the date of issue.

The cost of obtaining Food Storage and Temperature Control Certification varies depending on where you take the training course or online course. Generally speaking, courses can range anywhere from $50-$200 depending on the length and content of the course.

8. Knife Skills and Safety Certification

Knife Skills and Safety Certification is a certification program that teaches individuals the proper techniques for handling knives in a safe and hygienic manner. This certification is designed to ensure that individuals have the knowledge and skills necessary to safely use knives in their professional or home kitchen. The program typically consists of an online course, followed by an in-person assessment.

The online course typically takes about four hours to complete and covers topics such as knife safety, sharpening, storage, sanitation, cutting techniques, and food preparation. The in-person assessment involves demonstrating the skills learned during the online course under the supervision of a certified instructor.

To get Knife Skills and Safety Certification, individuals must first complete the online course. After completing the course, they can then register for an in-person assessment at one of several approved testing centers around the country. Once they pass the assessment with a score of 80% or higher, they will receive their certification card.

The cost of Knife Skills and Safety Certification varies depending on where you take your assessment test; however, it usually costs between $50-$100 USD.

9. Cleaning and Sanitizing Procedures Certification

Cleaning and Sanitizing Procedures Certification is a certification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge of the best practices for cleaning and sanitizing various surfaces. This certification is important for anyone who works in a food service, medical, or hospitality industry as it ensures that they are following the proper procedures to maintain a safe and clean environment.

The certification typically takes about two hours to complete and includes topics such as understanding the different types of cleaning agents, proper use of cleaning equipment, safety protocols, and more. The cost for this certification varies depending on the provider but can range from $50-$100 USD.

To get certified in Cleaning and Sanitizing Procedures, you must first take an approved course from an accredited institution. Once you have completed the coursework, you will be required to pass an exam in order to receive your certification. After passing the exam, you will receive your certificate which will be valid for three years before needing to be renewed.

10. Chemical Safety Training and Handling Certification

Chemical Safety Training and Handling Certification is a certification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and understanding of the safe handling of hazardous chemicals. The certification is designed to ensure that individuals who work with hazardous chemicals are aware of the risks associated with their use and can safely handle them.

The training typically takes between 8-10 hours to complete, depending on the level of detail required. It usually consists of classroom instruction, hands-on activities, and a written exam. The cost for chemical safety training varies depending on the provider, but typically ranges from $50-$100.

To obtain Chemical Safety Training and Handling Certification, individuals must first complete an approved course with a qualified instructor. Once completed, individuals must then pass a written examination in order to receive their certification.

In addition to completing the course and passing the exam, individuals may also be required to renew their certification periodically in order to stay up-to-date on current safety regulations and best practices.

11. Hazardous Waste Management Training and Handling Certification

Hazardous Waste Management Training and Handling Certification is a certification program designed to ensure that hazardous waste handlers are properly trained in the safe handling and disposal of hazardous waste. This certification is required for anyone who works with or handles hazardous materials, including industrial workers, environmental professionals, and laboratory technicians.

The training typically takes two to three days to complete and covers topics such as identifying hazardous materials, proper storage techniques, safety protocols, emergency response procedures, and waste disposal methods. The course also includes a written exam that must be passed before the certification can be issued.

To get certified, applicants must attend an approved training program or take an online course. Approved programs are available through local universities and community colleges as well as private companies. The cost of the course will vary depending on the provider but generally ranges from $500 to $1,000. After completing the training program or online course, applicants must pass a written exam administered by their chosen provider in order to receive their certification.

The cost of Hazardous Waste Management Training and Handling Certification varies depending on the provider but generally ranges from $100 to $200 for the exam fee alone. Additional fees may apply for study materials or other services provided by the provider.

Do You Really Need a Kitchen Steward Certificate?

No, you do not need a kitchen steward certificate to work as a kitchen steward. However, having a certificate can help demonstrate your commitment to the profession and prove that you possess the necessary skills and knowledge to perform the job.

A kitchen steward is responsible for cleaning and sanitizing food preparation areas and equipment, disposing of garbage, doing dishwashing duties, and performing other tasks related to keeping a commercial kitchen running smoothly. A certificate may be helpful in proving that you have the knowledge and skills required to do these tasks efficiently and safely.

A certification program could also provide additional training on topics such as food safety regulations, proper cleaning methods, food storage requirements, inventory control procedures, health codes and sanitation regulations. This type of education is especially important if you plan to work in an establishment that serves food to the public. Having this knowledge will make you a more valuable employee as it ensures that customers are served safe food in a clean environment.

In conclusion, while having a kitchen steward certificate is not essential for working in this profession, it can demonstrate your dedication to the job and provide useful information about how to properly carry out your duties in order to keep customers safe.

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FAQs About Kitchen Steward Certifications

1. What is a Kitchen Steward Certification?

Answer: A Kitchen Steward Certification is a professional certification for individuals who wish to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of the safety, sanitation, and operational standards necessary in order to work as a kitchen steward or dishwasher in a variety of settings.

2. How do I obtain a Kitchen Steward Certification?

Answer: In order to obtain a Kitchen Steward Certification, an individual must successfully complete an approved course or training program that covers food safety, sanitation, and operational standards for kitchen stewards or dishwashers.

3. What are the benefits of obtaining a Kitchen Steward Certification?

Answer: Obtaining a Kitchen Steward Certification can help individuals demonstrate their knowledge and commitment to upholding the highest standards of safety and sanitation when working as a steward or dishwasher in any setting. It also helps employers identify qualified candidates who have been trained in these areas.

4. Is there an exam required for obtaining a Kitchen Steward Certification?

Answer: Yes, most courses or training programs will require participants to pass an exam in order to receive their certification. The exam typically covers topics such as food safety, sanitation, and operational standards for kitchen stewards or dishwashers.

5. How long does it take to obtain a Kitchen Steward Certification?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to obtain a Kitchen Steward Certification depends on the specific course or training program chosen by the individual seeking certification. Generally speaking, most courses can be completed within one to two weeks depending on class size and availability of instructors.