California food handlers must have appropriate paperwork

A food handler card will be required for all non-exempt food handlers starting July 1. A food handler is an individual involved in the preparation, storage or service of food in a food facility.

There are some exemptions: temporary food facilities, certified farmers’ markets, commissaries, grocery and convenience stores, licensed health care facilities, schools, and a few others.

It is the responsibility of each employee to get the card. It is not the responsibility of the restaurant owner to obtain the card for employees. The restaurant owners are required to track and ensure all their employees have the card. The cards are valid for three years and will be required throughout the state within 30 days of hiring.

All food handlers will be required to obtain a food handler card after taking a food safety training course and passing an exam. This can be completed online. The cost of the online course is not more than $15. The exams can be done in English or Spanish.

More information regarding the California Food Handler Law is available online. The link is on the right side of the page under “hot topics.”