Learning the basics of food safety and protecting both consumers and your business from the risk of food borne illness is becoming easier this summer, thanks to a new partnership between Conestoga’s School of Business and Hospitality and Region of Waterloo Public Health.
Beginning this month, Conestoga will serve as the delivery agent for the Region’s Food Safety Training Certification program, with courses available in a variety of formats at College campuses in Waterloo, Kitchener and Cambridge. The seven-hour training program will be delivered in a single-day session, as two half-day sessions, and on weekends to provide maximum flexibility for individuals and employers.
“We are very pleased to partner with Conestoga in the delivery of this essential training program,” said Chris Komorowski, Manager, Food Safety at Region of Waterloo Public Health. “Their leadership in education and training to support the needs of local industry and the broader community, along with their established expertise in the areas of food service and hospitality, will result in increased access to the recognized food safety training certification programs that protect our Region’s residents and visitors.”
The Food Safety Training Certification program is recognized by the Medical Officer of Health of the Regional Municipality of Waterloo. Students who complete the program successfully will receive a Certified Food Handler certificate, which is renewable every five years. Food Safety Training Certification is recommended for all individuals who work in institutional, retail or wholesale food services.
“The Food Safety Training Certification program is a tremendous fit for Conestoga, as we work to develop a full range of local, accessible training options to serve the needs of restaurants, hotels and food-service establishments across our growing community,” said Gary Hallam, chair of Conestoga’s School of Business and Hospitality. “We look forward to working with Region of Waterloo Public Health in the delivery of this important initiative.”
The first program session will be held at the Waterloo campus on June 27-28. To register, or for more program options, visit Continuing Education - Current Offerings. Home study, exam-only and group training sessions are also available: for more information, contact Judy Reinholt at 519-885-0300, ext 5235.
The Region of Waterloo Public Health Food Safety Training Certification program is the latest addition to a growing number of programs at Conestoga designed to meet the needs of the local hospitality industry, including Smart Serve certification and Culinary Arts and Apprenticeship programs.
For media inquiries, contact Brenda Cassidy, Corporate Communications Manager, 519-748-5220 ext 3336 or bcassidy@conestogac.on.ca