The food service and food processing industries need to provide food safety training to its food handlers which is ongoing, as that would help to reduce the risk of food becoming contaminated. Providing food safety training to employees from time to time is also a brand statement that builds your reputation as an organisation that cares for consumers’ well being and health.
Training becomes more beneficial when there is an effective follow-up where monitoring and mentoring is required in the food premises. This is where a trained supervisor is required to ensure that food handlers are applying their knowledge to good practices. Training coupled with mentoring prepares food handlers to follow food safety behaviour. Theoretical knowledge alone is not enough for them to continue with the behavioural change and good practices.
Training on good food safety practices, provides the knowledge food handlers need to make safe and informed decisions about their own food handling practices. When staff are properly trained, less food is wasted, contaminated or lost due to poor handling. Ongoing training and everyday application of the food safety principles will lead to food safety behaviour becoming second nature. Refresher courses serve as a reminder that they must continue with good food safety practices. Training courses provide direction and knowledge for them to follow food safety norms. Additionally, they get to know the latest on food handling and understand what food inspectors will look for during their inspections.
