Freeport, IL----Americans love dining out. Whether we are celebrating a special occasion or simply eating on the go, eating out is very much a part of our lives. According to research published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than one-third of adults consumed fast food on any given day. With an ever-growing number of individuals eating out, it is more important than ever to ensure the safety of consumers.
To safeguard public health and ensure food safety, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) developed the Food Code. The Food Code provides uniform procedures addressing the safety and protection of food offered in retail and food service.
Illinois requires retail food establishments to have a person-in-charge, or a food establishment manager obtain an American National Standards Institute (ANSI) accredited Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) certification. This requirement helps to ensure the safety of consumers when eating away from home. Those receiving this certification have specialized training regarding safe handling, preparation, and food storage to prevent foodborne-related illnesses. The certificate is valid for five years, and individuals must recertify once a certificate expires.
The University of Illinois Extension will offer the Certified Food Protection Manager class from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 30, AND Friday, Dec. 3, at Stephenson County Farm Bureau, 210 W. Spring Street, Freeport.
Participants will learn about food safety and contamination, employee health and hygiene, safe food handling practices, cleaning and sanitizing, and HACCP during this two-day class. Individuals must attend the full two-day training to be eligible to take the exam. Participants should bring a valid photo ID and arrive 15 minutes early to register, as class will begin promptly at 9 a.m.
The program fee to attend is $100, which covers the cost of the workbook, educational materials, exam, and lunch. Pre-registration is required. To register call Extension at (815) 235-4125 or online at go.illinois.edu/jsw .
If you need reasonable accommodations to participate in this program, please contact Extension at (815) 235-4125. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time for meeting your access needs.
Diane Reinhold is a University of Illinois Extension, Nutrition and Wellness Educator and registered dietitian. For more about upcoming programming on nutrition and wellness, visit go.illinois.edu/jsw or call 815-235-4125.