The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate 48 million people fall ill from foodborne diseases each year, and approximately 128,000 individuals require hospitalization. Businesses, including K-12 schools, serving food in Illinois must have staff trained as Certified Food Protection Managers.

Certified Food Protection Manager course and exam, specific for K-12 school foodservice professionals, will be held June 4 and 6 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. both days at the Effingham County Extension Office, 1209 Wenthe Dr, Effingham. Register by May 13 at go.illinois.edu/effingham or by calling 217-877-6042.

This two-day course covers the current FDA Food Code, including safe food preparation, cooking and handling, facility safety and maintenance, employee health and hygiene, and cleaning and sanitization. Participants must attend both days; the national certification exam is on the second day. Certificates must be renewed every five years.

“An estimated one in six Americans get some type of foodborne illness each year - both at home and when dining out,” says Caitlin Mellendorf, nutrition and wellness educator. “To ensure food served to students is as safe as possible, it is important employees are trained and feel confident working with food.”

Please bring a valid photo ID to the exam. The $50 course fee covers the cost of class materials and the exam. If you need a reader or translator, contact the National Registry of Food Safety Professionals at 800.446.0257 or customer.service@nrfsp.com.