New food establishment rules to expand food handler requirements

AgriLife Extension offers in-person, online food safety programming

KERRVILLE – New Texas Food Establishment Rules affecting those in the food service industry have been reviewed and will be accepted as of Oct. 11, said a Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service program specialist for food protection management in Kerrville.

“One major change that will impact the food service industry will be the addition of the rule that except in a temporary food establishment and in the case of the certified food manager, all food employees will be required to successfully complete an accredited food handler training course within 60 days of employment,” said Rebecca Dittmar, who coordinates the agency’s food handler trainings statewide. “This new rule will go into effect as of Sept. 1 of next year, but compliance prior to that date is strongly encouraged by the state.”

Dittmar said this new rule essentially means everyone in Texas who is in food service and prepares food will need a food handler’s card.

“We want to remind those in the food service industry that AgriLife Extension already has an accredited food handlers training program in place to help meet the needs of food service workers in the state,” she said. “To combat restaurant-related outbreaks, many public health agencies encourage or require food safety certification.”

Dittmar said AgriLife Extension offers food handlers course certification programs both in-person and online.

“For those interested in participating in an in-person training, we suggest they contact their county AgriLife Extension office to see any are being offered there or in a nearby county,” she said. “If not, the Texas Food Handlers Certification course is also conveniently offered online”

For more information about the online Texas Food Handlers Certification course offered by AgriLife Extension, go to http://foodsafety.tamu.edu .

“This online course is offered in three languages – English, Spanish and Mandarin Chinese,” she said. “It is recommended for all food service  employees and incorporates a basic overview of food safety principles and practices necessary to ensure serving safe food at a restaurant or other food-serving establishment.”

She said some of the benefits of taking the online course are that it is accessible from anywhere there is Internet access and it can be taken at any time.

“Plus, it’s interactive, with participant activities and handouts,” she said.

The course is about two hours in length and costs $15 per person online, with discounted group rates available. It is accredited by the Texas Department of State Health Services.

“Upon completion of the Texas Food Handlers Certification course, you will be able to print a food handler’s card,” Dittmar said. “This card will be valid for two years, is good statewide and can be verified online.”

To access the new rules and supporting documentation, go to the “Laws and Rules” tab at the Texas Department of State Health Services Food Establishment Group website, http://bit.ly/1VFyNwx.

Dittmar said those with questions about the new rules or the food safety courses through AgriLife Extension may contact her at 830-896-9037 or [email protected], or Julie Prouse at 979-458-2025 or [email protected].