The restaurant industry has gotten a head start on food safety and sanitation training in the past year. While new rules do not require a certified food protection manager on staff until 2018, more than 5,200 people across the state received certification in 2014 – a 27% increase over the previous year.

“Prior to the new requirement, many of Iowa’s 6,000+ restaurants and bars had already determined that having a certified food safety professional is good for business,” said Jessica Dunker, president and CEO of the Iowa Restaurant Association. “The statistics speak for themselves. Establishments are taking food safety and sanitation seriously and this will ultimately enhance the experience for all customers.”

The recent food code requires every food service establishment in Iowa have a certified food protection manager on staff. Certification can be achieved by taking ServSafe™, a one day food safety and sanitation certification class. ServSafe classes are offered bi-monthly through the Iowa Restaurant Association and ISU extension offices across the state. The certification is good for five years.

Upcoming ServSafe classes will be held at the Iowa Restaurant Association Office:

January 20

January 29

February 10

February 17

March 10

March 19

To find a class near you, visit the “Education & Training” tab at www.restaurantiowa.com

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The Iowa Restaurant Association is an advocacy organization supporting Iowa’s restaurant and bar industry with educational and promotional programs across the state.

Katelyn Kostek

Public Relations Specialist

Iowa Restaurant Association

kkostek@restaurantiowa.com

515-276-1454