Delaware Food Handlers Training Online

Does Delaware require food handler training?

Food handler training is recommended in Delaware. It supports the Delaware Health and Human Services' mission of ensuring the safety of retail foods and food services in the state.

You'll learn to prevent the spread of foodborne illness by:

• Heating, cooling, and holding food at a safe time and temperature
• Avoiding cross-contamination
• Practicing personal hygiene and effective hand-washing practices
• Receiving and storing food safely
• Sanitizing food-contact surfaces, utensils, and equipment the right way

Some cities or counties may require a food handler card or other training.  It's always smart to check with your city/county or employer to ensure comply with local regulations.

Can I take an online course to get my food handler certificate?

Online courses are a great way to get formal food safety training on a personalized schedule. Online food handler certificate courses are faster, cheaper, and more convenient than in-person courses.

Our food handler certificate course at Learn2Serve, by 360training, is ANAB-accredited and follows the highest standards for food handler training.

How long does a Delaware food handlers permit last?

Delaware food handler certification is generally valid for 2-3 years but check with your employer or local health authority to find out what they require. Periodic refreshers are important to food safety compliance.

Why should I take food handler training?

Food employees play a more important role than you might think in public health. For example, an estimated 70% of reported food poisoning (norovirus) outbreaks can be traced back to contagious food handlers, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

So if you want to be a food employee in Delaware, you should learn how to protect yourself and your customers from foodborne illness.

Especially because Delaware has seen in increasing number of foodborne illness outbreaks in recent years.  In 2017, the CDC reported 6 foodborne disease outbreaks in Delaware, compared to the 4 outbreaks recorded in 2016 and 2 reported in 2015.

By practicing the food safety techniques, you learn in food handler training, you can be part of an effort to reduce the number of outbreaks in the state.

What jobs can I get in Delaware with my food handler license?

In Delaware, a food handler license qualifies you for many types of jobs. In fact, it's a great way to make yourself a more attractive job applicant.

Food handler training can be an asset in positions like:

• Chefs and cooks
• Food prep workers
• Server staff
• Bartenders
• Bussers
• Dishwashers
• Anyone whose job involves unpackaged food or food-contact surfaces and implements

You can work in a variety of establishments like:

• Sit-down restaurants
• Fast food restaurants
• Counter-service restaurants
• Coffee shops
• Grocery stores
• Food trucks
• And many more…

And job demand is high because the food and beverage industry in Delaware is growing fast.

According to the Delaware Restaurant Association (DRA), in 2019 there were 46,100 restaurant and food service jobs, which translates to 10% of total employment. More importantly, that number is projected to grow 8.9% by the year 2029, well above all job growth nationwide.

If you’re looking to get a job in the food and beverage industry in Delaware, here are some good options, along with how much money you can expect to make based on wage data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics:

If you get your food handler card before you apply for any of these jobs, you’ll be way ahead of the competition!

Where can I find more information about food safety in Delaware?

Delaware Health and Human Services: DHHS is in charge of food safety regulation in the state. You'll find resources like food safety guidelines, food inspection details, food manager training requirements, and the Delaware Food Code.

State of Delaware Food Code: Here's a direct link to the current state regulations controlling food safety in food retail establishments.

How do I get a food handler card in Delaware?

It’s easy to get your food handler card in Delaware!  You just need to take a short course, pass the multiple-choice exam, and you can print your certificate of completion immediately as proof of training.  That's it! Do be sure to ask if local authorities require any extra steps like registration. Enroll now and get your food handler certification in Delaware in just a couple hours!