The importance of good food safety hygiene

In a scientific review published by the Food Standards Agency, they estimate around 2.4 million cases of foodborne illness occur every year in the UK. This statistic highlights the need for good food safety hygiene in those organisations involved in food preparation, handing, storage and serving.

From source to supplier, corner café to five-star hotel, every business requires a set of rules which it must adhere to to maintain high standards of food safety hygiene.

These principles can vary from company to company, but all aim to ensure that the quality and safety of food products. This is not only to ensure the safety of those who will be consuming the food, but also that government regulations are being adhered to.

In addition to the danger to public health, there are large fines in place for non-compliance, alongside the risk to the success and reputation of your business. It is therefore essential that you, and the people that you work with, are equipped with the right skills and knowledge.

Our three food safety training courses are designed to promote the highest of food safety standards and complement the guidelines issued by the Food Standards Agency (FSA).

Why choose CIEH?

Whether learning about the basics of food standards in the industry, food handling and preparation, or expanding on how to apply safe food controls within an organisation, our Level 1, 2 and 3 certificates in food safety are designed by subject-matter experts.

From our Level 1 Introductory certificate for anyone who is new to food safety, to Level 2 Food Safety Foundation Certificate aimed at those preparing and cooking food through to more advanced Level 3 Intermediate certificate designed for managers and supervisors, we offer courses at different levels to suit a variety of needs and roles.

Engaging work-based format

Our work-based learning (WBL) offers engaging presentations including animation and imagery, with a logical flow and structure of information. WBL enables live conversations and engagement between trainer and trainees.

Did you know we also offer food safety e-Learning training courses? With an easy-to-use learning management system and the flexibility to learn anytime and anywhere, our e-Learning courses may be a fantastic additional resource for your organisation. Visit our health and safety online training page now to find out more.

Written by experts

Our training is written in partnership with subject matter experts including environmental health professionals, and peer reviewed to ensure accuracy.

Designed for an engaging and positive learner experience

We pride ourselves on prioritising the learning experience, considering how to optimise our content to ensure engaging material and a logical content structure.

Supporting materials available

When you purchase any CIEH training course, you will receive a set of in-depth training materials, including slides, activity sheets, textbooks and test sheets. Take a look at our sample course books for Introductory Food Safety, Foundation Food Safety and Intermediate Food Safety.

Explore our work-based food safety training courses

The CIEH Introductory Certificate in Food Safety is a great way to introduce beginners to the safe preparation and cooking of food.

Who is this course for?

  • Anyone new to food safety
  • Ideal for use in schools
  • New employees working in low-risk environments
  • Anyone with an interest in safe food preparation at home

Course overview

The course will help you understand more about the importance of good food preparation. You’ll learn about training and cooking practices such as keeping yourself and your work area clean and hygienic, how food becomes contaminated and steps to reduce this. You will also learn how foodborne, pest and physical contamination pose serious health risks and the controls to reduce these risks.

Key facts

  • Introduces the concept of safe food
  • Improves your food preparation and handling knowledge
  • Starter point for further study as a food handler

The CIEH Foundation Certificate in Food Safety is designed for anyone working in a food business. Upon completion of this course, you will be able to prepare and cook food that is safe for consumption.

Who is this course for?

  • Food handlers preparing or cooking food for consumers
  • Anyone wishing to refresh previously learned skills and knowledge
  • Businesses looking to provide staff development to food employees
  • Self-employed, food-based small business owners

Course overview

This course reinforces the importance of food safety and provides learners with an understanding of how to identify and control food safety hazards in their own workplace.

Key facts

  • Offers the minimum standards for the food safety industry
  • Builds on the introductory certificate in food safety
  • Recognises good practice as a food handler
  • Gives confidence to consumers

The CIEH Intermediate Certificate in Food Safety is designed for managers and supervisors who need a broad understanding of food safety control, and who have responsibility for developing and maintaining a food safety management system. It is recommended that all food environments should have at least one person trained to this level.

Who is this course for?

  • Anyone involved in supervising and managing others in a food environment
  • Those wishing to progress from the Foundation Certificate in Food Safety

Course overview

The course covers an in-depth understanding of how to apply and monitor good food safety practice. It also ensures that supervisors know how to implement food safety management procedures.

Key facts

  • Leads on from the introductory and Foundation Certificate in Food Safety
  • Develops your understanding as a supervisor in a food environment
  • Expands knowledge on how to apply safe food controls in a practical environment

Looking for other courses?

We also offer a wide range of expertly designed environmental health training courses available both online, in-person or a blend of both.

Want to know more about our work-based training courses?

Complete our online form to contact our training experts or call us on +44 (0)20 7827 5800

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