The New York City Health Code mandates that all food service establishments and non-retail food processing establishments have at least one supervisor with a valid Food Handler Certification on site during operating hours. This certification, officially known as a Food Protection Certificate, ensures that individuals responsible for handling food understand and practice safe food handling techniques to prevent foodborne illnesses and maintain public health. Obtaining this certification involves completing a training course and passing a final exam.
The first step towards becoming a certified food handler in NYC is to complete the free online Food Protection Course. This comprehensive course covers essential topics such as foodborne illnesses, personal hygiene, temperature control, and safe food storage practices. It is available in English, Spanish, and Chinese, allowing accessibility for a diverse range of individuals pursuing food handler certification. The self-paced format, consisting of 15 lessons each followed by a quiz, ensures thorough understanding of the material.
The online course offers flexibility and convenience, allowing individuals to learn at their own pace and schedule. Successful completion of all lessons and quizzes is a prerequisite for taking the final exam and receiving food handler certification. While the online course is free, there is a fee associated with the final exam and certification process.
The final exam, required to obtain food handler certification, costs $24.60 including fees. Upon successful completion of the online course, you will be prompted to schedule an in-person exam appointment at the NYC Health Academy Riverside Health Center in Manhattan. Payment for the exam must be made via credit card. This in-person examination ensures the integrity of the certification process and validates the knowledge acquired through the online training.
Thorough preparation is crucial for successfully completing the Food Protection Course and obtaining food handler certification. A comprehensive study guide is available in multiple languages to assist individuals in preparing for the exam. This guide reinforces key concepts covered in the online course and provides practice questions to assess understanding. Utilizing the available resources can significantly enhance your chances of passing the exam and becoming a certified food handler.
To facilitate comprehensive preparation, several resources are available beyond the online course. These include a detailed training manual and a frequently asked questions document, both accessible online. The training manual delves deeper into food safety principles and provides practical examples, while the FAQ document addresses common queries regarding the course and certification process. These supplementary materials, offered in multiple languages, provide additional support for individuals seeking food handler certification.
