What is servsafe?

Servsafe is a nationally recognized food safety training and certification program that aims to reduce incidents of foodborne illness by teaching employees of restaurants and food handling establishments about safe food preparation and handling practices. It is developed and administered by the National Restaurant Association (NRA) in collaboration with the National Environmental Health Association (NEHA).

The Servsafe program offers different levels of certification based on the specific roles of individuals in the food industry. The main certifications offered are:

1. Servsafe Food Handler Certification: This is the most basic level of certification, designed for employees who handle food in most foodservice operations, such as restaurants, cafeterias, and hospitals.

2. Servsafe Food Manager Certification: This advanced certification is intended for individuals responsible for managing food safety programs in food establishments. It covers more in-depth knowledge and skills related to food safety regulations, sanitation practices, and hazard analysis and critical control points (HACCP) principles.

3. Servsafe Alcohol Certification: This specialized certification is focused on responsible alcohol service and sales for employees who handle alcoholic beverages in restaurants, bars, and other hospitality businesses.

To obtain any of the Servsafe certifications, individuals must undergo training and pass an accredited exam. The Servsafe training materials and exams are comprehensive, covering topics such as food safety hazards, cross-contamination prevention, personal hygiene, food handling procedures, cleaning and sanitization, pest control, and allergen awareness.

Upon successful completion of the training and exam, individuals receive a Servsafe certificate, which is valid for five years. To maintain the certification, certified individuals need to periodically renew it by completing continuing education courses or retaking the exam.

The Servsafe program is widely recognized and respected within the food industry, and many states and local jurisdictions require individuals working in food establishments to hold a Servsafe certification. It demonstrates an individual's commitment to food safety and helps ensure that proper practices are followed to reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses.