FOOD SAFETY CERTIFICATION

The city of Harlingen passed an ordinance requiring mandatory training for all employees of food service establishments.  The ordinance requires that each food service establishment maintain a minimum of one person in-charge during operating hours who is currently certified as food protection manager.  The required training course must be completed through an accredited program approved by the Texas Department of Health.  TSTC Harlingen is accredited by the Texas Department of Health to provide this training.  In addition, the ordinance also requires that all employees complete a two-hour training course once every two years on proper food handling practices.  Classes can be arranged at your place of business by contacting the Continuing Education office at (956) 364-4606.

Food Manager Certification

Course Code: RSTO-1041      

This 16-hour course is a certification program for owners and operators of establishments that prepare and serve food to the public.  Topics covered will include methods of proper food storage, techniques for sanitary food service preparation, employee sanitation, pest control, accident prevention, housekeeping, and facility conditions that contribute to outbreaks of food-borne disease.  The manager certification is valid for six year, but must be renewed every two years. Price $100

Recertification: Food Managers

Course Code: RSTO 2041             

This 7-hour recertification course is designed for owners and operators of establishments that prepare and serve food to the public.  Specified topics include categories of food contamination, factors that contribute to food-borne illness, and introduction to Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP).  Students must have successfully completed the 16-hour Food Protection Manager course.  Price $80

Food Handler Certification

Course Code: TRSTO-1091           

This 2-hour course provides training on proper food handling practices to employees of food service establishments.  Students will learn how to safeguard public health and provide consumers with food that is safe, unadulterated, and honestly presented. Students will receive a two-hour certification card at the end of course. Price $20