There will always be a set of critical skills and knowledge that anyone working in the hospitality industry needs. One such skill set is food handling. Whether you’re dipping your toe into the hospitality or already fully immersed in it, understanding and implementing food safety practices is essential. The best way to learn about food safety is by taking a course on food handling. By obtaining a food handling certificate, you can not only keep your customers safe, but you can also enhance your professional profile. But what is a food handling certificate?
The Importance of a Food Handling Certificate
A food handling certificate shows that you are qualified and knowledgeable enough to carry out proven food safety procedures and practices. The knowledge garnered in this course guides hospitality workers in preparing, handling, and serving food safely. When everyone in the team is trained, hospitality businesses are better equipped to practice food hygiene and keep their customers safe and healthy.
A food handling certificate is ideal because while these practices can be learnt on the job, a course will deepen one’s knowledge and address any knowledge gaps. It is also critical to note that regardless of the type of training employees receive, hospitality businesses must remain compliant with Australian food safety regulations to avoid reputational damage, penalties, and legal action.
Why Learn About Food Safety
Learning about food safety is important because it teaches hospitality workers how to prevent contamination and manage food allergies effectively, ensuring the well-being of customers. In addition, employees are also required to handle food properly to reduce waste and improve efficiency and store food safely. When employees know how to keep their customers safe from foodborne illnesses, the reputation of the establishment is more likely to stay intact because customers are confident in the quality and safety of the food they are eating.
What Happens When Food Safety Is Neglected?
When food safety standards are neglected, the consequences can be dire for customers and the business. Inadequate food safety can lead to the foodborne illness outbreaks, which can even be fatal. Food can be contaminated with bacteria, viruses, parasites, or toxins, leading to cramping, nausea, vomiting or diarrhoea. Amongst the most common foodborne illnesses are salmonella, botulism, e-coli, hepatitis, listeriosis, and dysentery. A single food poisoning incident can be enough to result in legal penalties and a loss of customer trust.
What You Learn on a Food Safety Course
A food handling course involves learning:
- Why food safety is important.
- Understanding foodborne illnesses.
- Identifying food safety hazards.
- How to control food safety risks.
- Hygiene practices.
- How to monitor food safety.
A food handling certificate is important for anyone working with food. By prioritising food safety training, businesses meet legal requirements and ensure the safety and satisfaction of their customers. Now that you know what a food safety course is, you know that choosing the right course is equally important. Look for a course that is nationally recognised, complies with the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code, and has a good reputation amongst industry professionals.
