If you choose to work in the restaurant industry, you will likely be required to take a food handlers course first. Even if this is not a requirement in your area, it is helpful to take such a course to learn about how to safely and confidently handle food products. One of the most common courses is offered by the government, and usually involves a small fee and a short test before you are given a food handlers card or certificate. If you want more in-depth training, you can take a course at a community college, which may be the best step if you plan to stay in this industry for years. If you cannot fit a traditional course into your schedule, you should look for an online class.
Most restaurants require employees to present a food handlers card before starting work, which you can obtain through a short course offered by the government in many countries. This is often ideal if you do not have enough time to take a formal course, but need to learn the basics about food safety fast. This type of food handlers course often allows you to walk into the appropriate government agency, indicate that you need to take the class, and then pay a small fee. You will usually be given a packet of information to look over, though some areas require students to watch videos instead, neither of which should take more than an hour. Once you have taught yourself the information, you will likely be given a test about the basics, which you need to pass in order to get a food handlers card.
Those interested in staying in the restaurant industry long-term, perhaps as a career rather than a temporary job, should consider taking a more in-depth food handlers course. This can usually be found at most community colleges, and may consist of a single course or a series of classes that teach the specifics of food handling. This type of course typically offers a certificate at the end, which can be quite useful when you look for a job in the restaurant industry. You should expect to spend at least a few hours per week on such a course, completing homework and tests before earning a certificate, so be sure you have the time to devote to it before signing up.
Perhaps you do not have much extra time, but still desire to learn more about food handling than you would with a simple government course. If so, you may be able to take a food handlers course online so that you can complete the work from home anytime you want. Online courses are often given by community colleges, so check with one near you to find out if you can take a class without going to campus. Of course, you may also be able to take an online food handlers course offered by a college that is not anywhere near you, so consider schools in other areas if the one closest to you does not offer such a class.
