Food Poisoning - A Serious Health Issue

 Guidelines are created for food industry workers to follow to prevent foodborne illnesses. Food handler certification Texas educational processes assist those interested in working in the field of food services. Online courses are offered to individuals who are interested in obtaining this type of certification from the comfort of their own home. As in a normal school setting, applicants are required to pass testing to receive certification or licensure.

Proper Handling of Foods is Important for Preventing Food Poisoning

In most cases, proper handling of foods prevents food poisoning. Food poisoning occurs when contaminated food is eaten. Foods which contain infectious organisms are the main cause of food poisoning. The organisms can include bacteria, parasites, and viruses. Contamination can occur at any stage within the food processing and preparation. This includes during purchases, storing, preparing, cooking, and serving of foods.

Food Handler Courses Cover a Variety of Topics

Topics covered may vary in content by educational courses taken. Although, all courses will cover the basics of food handling that is standard for state guidelines. Topics include, but are not limited to accurate hand washing techniques, proper handling of foods, appropriate non-perishable food use, proper use of basic equipment, state approved sanitation procedures, as well as how to store food safely.

Applicants will understand that cross contamination of foods occurs from one surface to another. If a cutting board or counter top is not cleaned and sanitized properly, food items can become contaminated by unsafe organisms. This becomes especially important when preparing foods that are not cooked before eating. For example, when preparing salad, items on a counter that was not properly cleaned provide a major potential for food poisoning. Infectious organisms can be transferred to the salad items from the improperly cleaned location.

Groups at Risk

When serving the public food services, food poisoning can be very dangerous for children, pregnant women, as well as those with lowered immune systems. Older adults can also be more at risk. Serving food according to the procedures required for a food handler certification Texas offers will eliminate, or drastically minimize, the potential for food poisoning.

If studying to apply for, or renew, a food handler certification Texas permit, study each guideline carefully. For personal and public safety all food handling guidelines should be followed religiously. Food poisoning is real and it is dangerous. All measures should be taken to prevent food poisoning, especially when preparing and serving food to the public. Food poisoning is a serious health issue that can be prevented in most cases.