Introduction

Running a successful restaurant in New Hampshire requires more than just great food and service—it also requires a commitment to food safety. One crucial aspect of ensuring food safety is having a certified food manager on staff. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about obtaining a food manager certification in New Hampshire.

How to get a food manager certification in New Hampshire?

To get a food manager certification in New Hampshire, you need to follow these steps:

Complete an Accredited Food Protection Manager Program: Completing an accredited Food Protection Manager Program is a crucial step toward obtaining a food manager certification. These programs provide comprehensive training on food safety, sanitation, and handling practices, preparing candidates to pass the certification exam. The program covers topics such as proper food storage and handling, employee hygiene, sanitation procedures, and food safety regulations. By completing this program, individuals gain the knowledge and skills necessary to protect public health and ensure that food is handled and prepared safely in a restaurant or food service establishment.

Take the Certification Exam: After completing an accredited Food Protection Manager Program, the next step toward obtaining a food manager certification is to take the certification exam. This exam tests candidates on their knowledge of food safety measures, regulations, and techniques required to maintain food safety in a food-oriented environment like a restaurant. The exam typically covers topics such as foodborne illness prevention, safe food handling practices, and sanitation procedures. By successfully passing the certification exam, candidates demonstrate their understanding of food safety principles and their ability to protect the public from foodborne illnesses.

Certification Provider(s): Certification providers for food manager certification in New Hampshire are organizations accredited by the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) to offer training and certification programs. These providers include the Certifying Board for Dietary Managers, ProMetric, the National Registry of Food Safety Professionals (NRFSP), and the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF). These organizations offer comprehensive training programs that cover all aspects of food safety and prepare candidates for the certification exam. By choosing an accredited certification provider, candidates can ensure that their certification is valid and meets state requirements.

Renewal: Renewing a food manager certification in New Hampshire is typically required every five years to ensure that certified individuals stay up-to-date with current food safety practices and regulations. To renew their certification, individuals must complete a refresher course or retake the certification exam before their current certification expires. This process helps to ensure that food managers maintain their knowledge and skills, continue to prioritize food safety in their work, and comply with state regulations. Keeping their certification current allows food managers to demonstrate their commitment to excellence in food safety and continue to protect public health in their establishments.

Verification of Information: Verification of information is an essential step in the process of obtaining a food manager certification in New Hampshire. It involves confirming the accuracy and validity of the certification requirements and processes with the relevant certifying agency or the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). By verifying this information, candidates can ensure that they are following the correct procedures and meeting all requirements to obtain their certification. This step helps to avoid any misunderstandings or discrepancies that could delay or hinder the certification process.

What do food managers do in a restaurant?

Food managers play a crucial role in ensuring food safety and quality in a restaurant. Their responsibilities include:

Overseeing Food Handling: Overseeing food handling involves supervising and managing the entire process of food handling in a restaurant or food service establishment. This includes ensuring that food is received, stored, prepared, and served safely and in compliance with food safety regulations. Food managers are responsible for implementing proper food handling procedures to prevent contamination and foodborne illnesses. They also oversee the training of kitchen staff on safe food handling practices and ensure that all food handling activities are carried out according to established standards. By overseeing food handling, food managers play a crucial role in maintaining the safety and quality of food served to customers.

Implementing Food Safety Practices: Implementing food safety practices involves putting in place procedures and protocols to ensure that food is handled, prepared, and served safely in a restaurant or food service establishment. This includes establishing food safety policies, such as proper handwashing techniques, safe food storage practices, and appropriate cooking temperatures. Food managers are responsible for ensuring that these practices are followed by all staff members to prevent foodborne illnesses and ensure the safety of customers. Implementing food safety practices also involves conducting regular inspections and audits to identify and correct any potential food safety hazards. By implementing these practices, food managers can help protect public health and maintain the reputation of their establishment.

Training Staff: Food managers train and supervise kitchen staff on proper food handling techniques, sanitation practices, and safety procedures. They ensure that all staff members are aware of and comply with food safety regulations.

Monitoring Sanitation: Food managers regularly inspect the kitchen and dining areas to ensure that they are clean and sanitary. They oversee cleaning schedules and ensure that all equipment and surfaces are properly sanitized.

Managing Inventory: Food managers are responsible for managing inventory and ensuring that food is stored properly to prevent spoilage and waste. They also monitor food quality and ensure that expired or spoiled food is discarded.

Ensuring Compliance: Food managers ensure that the restaurant complies with all relevant health and safety regulations. They maintain records of food safety practices and inspections and ensure that the restaurant is prepared for health inspections.

Responding to Food Safety Concerns: In the event of a food safety concern or outbreak, food managers take immediate action to identify and address the issue. They work with health authorities to investigate the cause and prevent further contamination.

What are the food safety regulations in New Hampshire?

Food safety regulations in New Hampshire are designed to protect public health by ensuring that food is handled, prepared, and served safely. Some of the key food safety regulations in New Hampshire include:

Food Storage and Handling: Food storage and handling are critical aspects of food safety in restaurants and food service establishments. Proper storage helps prevent food spoilage and contamination, while correct handling practices ensure that food remains safe for consumption. Food should be stored at the correct temperature to prevent bacterial growth, with raw and ready-to-eat foods stored separately to prevent cross-contamination. Safe food handling practices include washing hands and surfaces often, cooking food to the right temperature, and refrigerating leftovers promptly. By following these guidelines, restaurants can minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses and ensure the safety of their customers.

Employee Hygiene: Employees must wash their hands frequently and thoroughly. They must also follow rules regarding clean uniforms and personal hygiene. Ill employees must be restricted from handling food.

Sanitation and Cleaning: Kitchens and dining areas must be clean and sanitary. Food preparation surfaces, equipment, and utensils must be regularly cleaned and sanitized. Waste must be disposed of properly and safely.

Food Safety Training: Food handlers and managers must receive appropriate food safety training and certification. Records of employee training and certification must be kept.

Temperature Control: Food temperatures must be monitored and controlled during storage, cooking, and serving to prevent foodborne illness. Food thermometers must be used to verify safe cooking temperatures.

Safe Food Sources: Food must be sourced from approved and reputable suppliers. Incoming shipments must be inspected for quality and safety.

Allergen Management: Menu items that contain common allergens must be clearly labeled and identified. Staff must be trained to handle allergen-related requests and issues.

HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points): Restaurants must implement a HACCP plan to identify and control potential hazards in food preparation. The plan must be regularly reviewed and updated.

Food Recall Procedures: Restaurants must establish procedures for quickly removing and disposing of recalled or contaminated food items.

Record Keeping: Restaurants must maintain records of food safety practices, temperature logs, and employee training. Records must be provided to health inspectors upon request.

Health Inspections: Restaurants must cooperate with health department inspections and promptly address any violations or concerns.

Emergency Preparedness: Restaurants must have plans in place for responding to foodborne illness outbreaks or other emergencies. Contact information for local health authorities must be maintained.

Menu Labeling: Restaurants must provide accurate nutrition information and calorie counts on menus. They must comply with any local or national menu labeling requirements.

What are the best options for food manager certification in New Hampshire?

There are several options for obtaining a food manager certification in New Hampshire. Some of the best options include:

Certifying Board for Dietary Managers (CBDM): The CBDM offers an accredited food protection manager program that prepares candidates for the certification exam. The program covers topics such as food safety, sanitation, and nutrition.

ProMetric: ProMetric offers a food manager certification program that is accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). The program includes training materials and practice exams to help candidates prepare for the certification exam.

National Registry of Food Safety Professionals (NRFSP): The NRFSP offers a food manager certification program that is recognized by the Conference for Food Protection (CFP). The program includes training materials, practice exams, and a certification exam.

National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF): The NRAEF offers a ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification program that is widely recognized in the foodservice industry. The program includes training materials, practice exams, and a certification exam.

Online Training Programs: There are several online training programs available that offer food manager certification courses. These programs allow candidates to study at their own pace and are often more convenient than traditional classroom-based programs.

Ready to go for your food manager certification in New Hampshire?

If you're ready to pursue your food manager certification in New Hampshire, here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

Research Certification Programs: Begin by researching accredited food protection manager programs in New Hampshire. Look for programs that are recognized by the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS).

Enroll in a Certification Program: Once you've identified a suitable program, enroll in the certification course. The course will provide you with the necessary knowledge and skills to pass the certification exam.

Complete the Training: Attend all training sessions and complete any coursework or assignments required by the program. Make sure to study diligently and ask questions if you need clarification on any topics.

Take the Certification Exam: Schedule a time to take the food manager certification exam. The exam will test your knowledge of food safety measures, regulations, and techniques required to maintain food safety in a food-oriented environment.

Pass the Exam: Successfully pass the certification exam to earn your food manager certification. The exam typically covers topics such as foodborne illness prevention, safe food handling practices, and sanitation procedures.

Renew Your Certification: Food manager certifications in New Hampshire are typically valid for five years. Before your certification expires, you will need to renew it by completing a refresher course or retaking the certification exam.

Maintain Compliance: Once you have your certification, make sure to comply with all food safety regulations and guidelines in New Hampshire. Stay updated on any changes to regulations and continue to prioritize food safety in your work.

Conclusion

Obtaining a food manager certification in New Hampshire is a critical step in ensuring the safety and quality of food served in restaurants and food service establishments. By completing an accredited food protection manager program and passing the certification exam, individuals demonstrate their commitment to protecting public health and upholding food safety standards.

The certification process equips food managers with the knowledge and skills needed to oversee food handling, implement food safety practices, and ensure compliance with food safety regulations. It also allows them to train and supervise staff, monitor sanitation practices, and respond effectively to food safety concerns.

For restaurant owners and managers, having certified food managers on staff is essential for maintaining a safe and sanitary food environment. It can also lead to higher customer satisfaction, increased trust in the establishment, and reduced risk of foodborne illness outbreaks.

Overall, pursuing a food manager certification in New Hampshire is a valuable investment in both personal and public health. It demonstrates a commitment to excellence in food safety and helps ensure that restaurants and food service establishments operate at the highest standards of hygiene and sanitation.