Even though food safety training is recommended for all professionals working in the food industry, not all workers undergo training or acknowledge the importance of it due to different state requirements. As a result, mistakes occur that can be potentially health and even life threatening.
Just last week alone, the United Department of Agriculture (USDA) released 5 public health reports that resulted in the recall of various food products. The recalls occurred due to problems ranging from misbranding and undeclared allergens, processing deviation, failure to undergo inspection and more.
Food safety training is extremely important because it not only keeps people safe but it also helps consumers feel more confident about their food. According to eFoodcard, "The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that each year roughly 48 million American (one in six) get sick, 128,000 are hospitalized, and 3,000 die of foodborne illnesses."
In order to lower these numbers food handler safety training is a must! In a majority of states such as Arkansas and North Dakota, food handler safety training is "recommended" but not required. Professionals who work in the food industry need to look past the idea that food safety training is a suggestion and start thinking of it as a requirement.
What does this mean for professional development?
Not only does food safety training prevent illness and give food consumers peace of mind, but it also creates more valuable employees. By undergoing training, food handlers gain important skills that will help protect themselves and others, while becoming more attractive to potential employers.
