Extension > Food > Food Safety > Courses and certification
Courses and certification
Choose the best option
- In-person trainings are offered year-round and statewide. Textbooks and exams are available in several languages.
- Online training lets you learn at your own pace, at times convenient to you. Self-study programs use video, narration, activities and interactive exercises.
- As-requested courses can be provided for a group of at least 20 learners, depending on availability of trainers. Call 507-337-2819.
- Spanish courses may be available. Call 507-389-6732.
For more information on any Food Safety courses, contact Connie at (507) 337-2819 or schwa047@umn.edu.
For food professionals and staff
-
Initial certification for food managers
This course satisfies the education requirement for Food Manager Certification from the Minnesota Department of Health.
- In person – Includes the ServSafe® textbook, class materials, and 90-question exam.
- Online – Includes video, narration, animation, and interactive exercises. Price includes exam, which must be taken in person.
- Spanish – Meets certification requirements for Spanish speakers. The 90-question exam is in Spanish too.
-
Certification renewal for food managers
An award-winning training meets Minnesota's 4-hour continuing education requirement to renew your Food Manager Certification.
-
Food Safety employee training
Food establishments are responsible for keeping food safe for their customers. All food service workers need BASIC food safety training.
- In person, as requested – The two-hour workshops provide interactive hands-on training. Offered for groups of at least 15, at site you provide, depending on availability of educators.
- Spanish – Available onsite for employers of Spanish speakers.
-
Food allergen training for food service employees
One-hour interactive web-based course teaches food handlers about food allergies and the important role they have to protect the health of customers
- Online – Approximately one hour of interactive activities, quizzes, and videos. Receive a certificate of completion.
For home and community
-
Peddling your pickles safely?
For anyone selling home processed foods. Learn what the Pickle Bill means to you, and how to make your kitchen safe for food production.
- In person – Offered spring and summer.
-
Making and marketing jams and jellies
Process safely at home to sell at farmers' markets and community events. Quality products, cleanliness and sanitation, labeling and documentation.
- In person – Offered spring and summer.
-
To your health! Food safety for high risk audiences
Three courses: for seniors and caregivers; for children, parents and caregivers; and for special needs, in home or care settings.
- In person, as requested – Call to find out about upcoming courses, or to sponsor one for your group.
-
Cooking Safely for a Crowd
Quantity cooking requires different skills and knowledge. Volunteers learn about storage, safe cooling and cooking temperatures, and serving buffet-style.
- In person, as requested – Can be delivered for at least 20 people, at your site in a 3-hour format.
- Online – Watch a 15 minute presentation and print a leader's guide and handouts, for yourself or a group you will train.
-
Home Food Preservation
If you prepare, preserve and process foods at home for you own use, learn food safety and food quality, including new hazards, food handling and processing methods.
Contact the Food Safety team: 
Thoughts on our website? 
