New Hampshire Food Handler Card Training

How do I get a food handler card in New Hampshire?

Acquiring a food handler card in New Hampshire couldn't be easier.   Once you complete a quick course and pass the test, you can access your certificate of completion instantly and deliver it to your employer as proof of training. Be sure to ask if any additional steps are required by local authorities. Enroll now to get your food handler certification in New Hampshire!

Does New Hampshire require food handler training?

Food handler training is recommended in New Hampshire to help support the food protection regulations enforced by the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (NH DHHS).  You'll be better equipped to help your establishment pass inspection if you earn a food handler card.

Please note that in addition to DHHS, there are over a dozen self-inspecting communities in New Hampshire who are authorized to pass and enforce their own food safety laws. Some of these jurisdictions may have stricter training requirements than the state.

For example, the City of Manchester requires some food safety training for at least one individual employed in each food service establishment.

You should check with your city/county or employer to ensure you meet the obligations of a food handler in your jurisdiction.

Can I take an online course to get my food handler permit?

You can!  Just be sure you sign up with a reputable training provider.

Our food handler permit course at Learn2Serve, by 360training, is accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). That's the highest standard for food handler training.

How long does a New Hampshire food handlers certificate last?

Generally, food handler certificates need refreshing every 2-3 years to keep food safety principles fresh in your mind.  Check with your employer or local health authority for their requirements or preferences.

Why should I take food handler training?

Completing food handler training can move your resume to the top of the pile during a job hunt, because it's evidence that you have some of the skills your employer would normally have to teach you.

But food handler training is also important to the public health. As a food employee in New Hampshire, you'll play a big role in preventing the spread of foodborne illness.

For example, an estimated 70% of reported food poisoning (norovirus) outbreaks can be traced back to contagious food handlers, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

New Hampshire has a fairly high rate of foodborne illness outbreaks for its population size. In 2017, the CDC reported 6 foodborne disease outbreaks in New Hampshire. There were 9 reported in 2016 and 5 in 2015.

By practicing what you learn in food handler training, you can help bring the number of outbreaks in the state down.

What jobs can I get in New Hampshire with my food handler license?

In New Hampshire, a food handler license qualifies you for many types of jobs. The training's designed for anyone who works with unpackaged food and/or food-contact surfaces, equipment, or utensils.

You can work in a variety of establishments like:

• Casual and fine-dining restaurants
• Fast food joints
• Bakeries, sandwich shops, and delis
• Grocery stores and convenience stores
• Cafeterias in schools, childcare facilities and health care facilities

And job demand is high because the food and beverage industry in New Hampshire is growing fast.

According to the New Hampshire Lodging & Restaurant Association (NHLRA), in 2019 there were 69,500 restaurant and food service jobs, which translates to 10% of total employment. More importantly, that number is projected to grow 10.1% by the year 2029, more than twice the national overall average.

If you’re looking to get a job in the food and beverage industry in New Hampshire, here are some good options, along with how much money you can expect to make based on wage data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics:

If you get your food handler card before you apply for any of these jobs, you’ll be way ahead of the competition!

Where can I find more information about food safety in New Hampshire?

New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (NH DHHS): The DHHS protects food safety and prevents foodborne illness through inspection, enforcement, and education in the state.  It's a good source of information  on food safety, including the New Hampshire Food Code.