If you work in the food industry, you need to have the correct food hygiene certificate. Since 2006, anybody that prepares or serves food for consumption by members of the public has to be properly qualified to do so. This means that every member of the food preparation team, regardless of how small his or her role is, has to be properly trained. Employers have to demonstrate conclusively that they have carried out this training. They have to show that all employees not only went through the training, but also fully understood it. The best way for them to do this is to ensure everybody they employ that comes into contact with the food holds the relevant food hygiene certificate.
Types of Food Hygiene Certificate
There are two levels of food hygiene certificate. The vast majority of people only require the level II certificate to be viewed as qualified. This certificate is designed for anybody that is involved in physically preparing food. That includes cutting up food, cooking it, packing it or serving it. Level III food hygiene certificates are designed for those who work within the food industry in a supervisory role. For example, the management team of a restaurant or a foreman or supervisor on a factory production line.
For each level of food hygiene certificate, there are three different kinds. These are retail, manufacturing and catering. If you work within the manufacturing industry, a level II retail food hygiene certificate is not considered adequate. In addition to completing the correct level of food course, you need also need to take the food course that is designed specifically for your sector of the food industry.
Food Hygiene Certificate
Finding a good course is relatively easy because many of the providers advertise online. In fact, many providers offer the course in a remote learning format. This means that you can complete the necessary training and gain your food hygiene certificate from the comfort of your own home. However, it is important to make sure that the course you are taking is fully recognised, so it is worth checking that the course is approved by environmental health authorities before completing it.
If you want to complete a level II or level III food hygiene certificate course, visit the Food Certificate website. We offer all 6 food hygiene courses.
