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Getting certified is one of the first steps before starting a job in the food industry. If you’re looking for a Food Handlers Certificate in Winnipeg, online certification is available to help you succeed.
In this blog post, we answer the most common questions about certification, including local food safety laws and how to take the Food Handler Certification Course and Exam online.
What is a Food Handlers Certificate?
Do I need a Food Handlers Certificate to work in Winnipeg?
Can I get a Food Handlers Certificate in Winnipeg online?
What does the online Food Handler Certification Course include?
How long does the online Food Handler Certification Course take?
Is the Food Handler exam difficult?
Is my Food Handler Certificate valid outside Winnipeg?
What is a Food Handlers Certificate?
A Food Handlers Certificate, sometimes called a food safety certificate, is proof that you have completed training on how to handle, prepare, store and serve food safely. In Winnipeg and across Manitoba, this certificate shows employers and public health inspectors that you know how to prevent food-borne illness and keep customers safe.
Do I need a Food Handlers Certificate to work in Winnipeg?
Under Manitoba food safety regulations, every food service establishment must have a certified Food Handler present at all times when food is being prepared or served.
Along with provincial regulations, the City of Winnipeg enforces its own food safety training rules under the Food Safety By-Law (No. 5160/89, Sections 5.6–5.8). This by-law requires food businesses to have staff who hold valid Food Handler Certification.
To obtain certification, food service personnel must successfully complete an approved food safety training program. At a minimum, if you operate a food business in Winnipeg, you must meet the following standards:
- The person in charge of a food premises must complete an approved Food Handler Certification course
- If more than five employees are working at the same time, at least one certified person in charge must be on site during all hours of operation
- The certified person on duty must display their Food Handler Certificate in a clearly visible location within the establishment
The CIFS Food Handler Certification Course is recognized by the Manitoba Government, and certification renewal is recommended every five years.
Can I get a Food Handlers Certificate in Winnipeg online?
Absolutely. One of the most flexible and convenient ways to earn your certification is to complete Winnipeg Food Handler training online. The Canadian Institute of Food Safety (CIFS) offers an online Food Handler Certification Course that is fully compliant with provincial guidelines and accepted by health inspectors across Manitoba.
Taking the course online lets you:
- Study at your own pace
- Access course material 24/7
- Complete the exam from home
- Get your certificate within an hour of completing the exam
Online certification is a practical option for people who are working, job-hunting or have a busy schedule to contend with.
What does the online Food Handler Certification Course include?
When you enroll in the CIFS Food Handler Certification Course, you will learn:
- Causes of food-borne illness and how to prevent it
- Safe food handling, cooking and storage practices
- How to avoid cross-contamination and keep surfaces clean
- Personal hygiene requirements for Food Handlers
- Provincial food safety laws and inspection rules
The course includes interactive lessons, quizzes and case studies to help you understand and remember the material.
How long does the online Food Handler Certification Course take?
Most participants finish the online lessons and quizzes in around 8 hours, although the time can vary depending on your previous food handling experience, literacy and computer skills.
In addition to the lessons and quizzes, you’ll need to complete a 60-minute certification exam, supervised online by a certified proctor via webcam. There’s no need to book ahead – exam sessions are available 24/7.
You also don’t have to complete the course all in one session – you can log in and out whenever it suits you. The system will automatically save your progress and prompt you to continue from where you left off.
From the date of enrollment, you’ll have 30 days to finish the entire course, including the final exam.
Is the Food Handler exam difficult?
Most participants pass the exam on their first attempt. The Food Handler exam is a multiple-choice test based on the course content and unlimited exam attempts are available if needed.
The exam is remotely proctored, so you can complete it online while being monitored via webcam.
Is my Food Handler Certificate valid outside Winnipeg?
Yes. A Food Handler Certificate earned through CIFS is accepted by health departments nationwide. This means that if you move or work in a different city, province or territory, your certification will still be valid.
Ready to get certified?
Whether you’re starting out in food service or renewing your Food Handlers Certificate in Winnipeg, CIFS is here to help you improve your job prospects and meet local health requirements.
Explore the CIFS Food Handler Certification Course today and discover how to take the first step towards a safer, more rewarding career in food service.
