LANSING, Mich. - Michigan Department of Agriculture (MDA) is reminding certain food establishments that the requirement for ensuring that a managerial employee has successfully completed an accredited food certification program is effective beginning June 30, 2009, according to the 2000 Michigan Food Law (Act No. 92 of 2000, as amended).
 
All restaurants and bars, schools, food service establishments within grocery stores, grocery stores that prepare foods for immediate consumption and grocery stores with seating will be required to have a certified manager on staff.
 
"MDA's core mission is to ensure the safety of the food you eat, whether you prepare food at home or enjoy it in a restaurant," said Katherine Fedder, MDA's Food and Dairy Division Director.  "Requiring managerial staff to know and understand foodborne illness risk factors will aid in protecting consumer's health."
 
To become certified, an individual needs to pass a nationally accredited exam every five years.  To prepare for the exam, most individuals take a class (in person or on-line) or self-study.  Exams are proctored and can be taken either at an approved testing site or are given at the end of a course by an approved instructor.  Classes and exams are offered by a wide range of private individuals, organizations, and agencies. To find a course, trainer, textbook or exam you may call your local health department.  Online training is also available by visiting the MDA website listed below.
 
"As the June 30 manager certification effective date is upon us, MDA is assisting food establishments and individuals in finding the appropriate methods of becoming certified," said Fedder.  "I urge all impacted businesses to take the training and have a certified manager on staff."
 
For more information, visit the MDA website at http://www.michigan.gov/mda/0,1607,7-125-1568_21390_21391_21399-182605--,00.html, or call your inspecting agency with any questions regarding manager certification or MDA's Food and Dairy Division at 517-373-1060.
 
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