Food safety training is an individualized process. Choices and options for training and education can be almost overwhelming. There are online courses, certifications and degree programs. There are also traditional colleges and universities.

The student today needs to look at the education at a deeper level and ask questions, "Is it the degree or certification that is important and necessary for my career path?" or, "Do I simply need a rigorous program that will get me in the workforce quickly?” Research the way parents and high school students look for the right college or university. There are plenty of less than sterling courses out there also. Buyer beware. Consider the following when looking for your food safety classes:

1. Look at on-site food safety education programs.

2. Find an online food safety course.

3. Use government and USDA food safety resources and sites to further your education.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find onsite classes, workshops and training facilities for your food service safety training

Get food safety certification and training from food safety specialists. Use established schools with good reputations and credentials for your training.

I recommend: Food Safety Specialists offers food safety programs that address overall concerns and requirements of food businesses. Customized training spans needs of beginners to advanced food service personnel, and these on-site training programs are around the world. Everclean Services offers customized on-site food safety classes for basic food safety as well as training for managers of restaurants.

Take a rigorous online food safety training course

There are many fine training programs online. Look for testimonials and professional looking websites. There are as many or more low standard programs and even scams online, as well. Find the great programs by researching, asking questions and scrutinizing.

I recommend: Take and online food safety course with Premier Food Safety. Take advantage of their course options including multiple languages, online learning, private classes and varied on-site learning locations. Earn a certification online as a food safety manager through Learn2Serve. Officials in the state of Texas fully approve this course.

Further your education in food safety with online resources and information

Look at these resources, and define your needs and goals. Find the information you need to keep your food facility safe.

I recommend: The FDA’s Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition offers resources and consumer advice on food borne pathogens and national food safety programs among other food safety topics. Look for timely and vital food safety facts and data at the USDA website. They provide food safety information the public, educators, researchers and industry experts.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Training programs and schools have popped up all over the Internet. It's a great opportunity for convenient food safety education. However, watch the fine print. Look at the testimonials. Check Better Business Bureaus. Compare prices. Make sure the school is not too expensive compared to other schools, and that it offers a good solid program.