Events and Activities : New food safety rules in place: Extension offers 'ServSafe' training

Restaurants, grocery stores, and other food establishments operating in Iowa will be subject to updated food safety standards effective January 1, 2014, under rules recently adopted by the Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals (DIA). “The updated rules focus on making Iowa’s food regulations consistent with current scientific evidence and preventing foodborne illness.” DIA Food and Consumer Safety Bureau Chief Steven Mandernach said.

The rules further protect Iowa consumers by requiring food establishments to have a certified food protection manager to oversee the safe handling, preparation, and service of food items in most food establishments. Research in Iowa and across the country indicates that food establishments with a certified food protection manager are less likely to have violations that could lead to foodborne illness.

Iowa State University Extension and Outreach offers ServSafe® training to meet the new requirement. The ServSafe® program provides food safety training, exams, and educational materials. Courses are offered each month in either Linn or Johnson County by Rachel Wall, Nutrition and Health Program Specialist. To view upcoming classes in your area, please visit: http://www.extension.iastate.edu/foodsafety/

The course is $150 ($100 for Iowa Restaurant Association members) and includes one day’s instruction, training materials, and the exam. Upon passing the exam, a certificate will be issued, which is valid for five years. For questions regarding the ServSafe course, please contact Rachel Wall, (319)-337-2145 or wallr@iastate.edu.