South Dakota Food Handler Card Training
How do I get a food handler card in South Dakota?
Earning your food handler card in South Dakota is very straightforward. Just take a food handler training program and pass the exam! You'll get a certificate of completion immediately that you can give your employer as proof of training. Be sure to ask if any further steps are required by local authorities. Enroll now to get your food handler certification in South Dakota!
Does South Dakota require food handler training?
Food handler training is recommended in South Dakota, because it supports the food safety goals of the South Dakota Department of Health.
It can also make you a more attractive hire by making your resume stand out from the rest.
- Types of food hazards, their causes and prevention measures
- Proper handwashing protocols, when and how
- Time and temperature controls for safety-safety foods
- How and when to report illness to your manager
- Effective sanitization and cleaning procedures
Some jurisdictions have stricter training requirements than the state. You should check with your city/county or employer for additional requirements.
Can I take an online course to get my food handler certification?
Yes—getting your food handler certification online is a great option. Just make sure you take the course from a reputable provider.
How long does a South Dakota food handlers permit last?
South Dakota food handler permit is generally valid for 2-3 years but check with your employer or local health authority to find out what they require. Periodic refreshers are important to food safety compliance.
Why should I take food handler training?
To work as a food service employee in South Dakota, you need to know the rules for protecting yourself and your customers from foodborne illness.
It's serious business—the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 70% of reported norovirus ("stomach flu") outbreaks are caused by food handlers working a shift while contagious.
South Dakota has its share of foodborne illness. CDC records show a total of 6 foodborne disease outbreaks in 2017. This is up from the 3 outbreaks reported in 2016 but similar to the 5 reported in 2015.
It's important to keep those numbers down. If you practice what you learn in food handler training, you can help improve public health where you live.
What jobs can I get in South Dakota with my food handler license?
In South Dakota, 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.
That includes positions like:
- Chefs
- Cooks
- Food prep workers
- Food servers
- Bartenders who serve food
- Dishwashers
- Bussers
- Catering staff
- Store clerks where unpackaged food is sold
- Anyone whose job involves unpackaged food or food-contact surfaces and implements
You can work in a variety of establishments like:
- Restaurants
- Fast food establishments
- Other eateries
- Cafeterias
- Catering services
- Grocery stores
- Food trucks
And job demand is high because the food and beverage industry in South Dakota is growing fast.
According to the South Dakota Retailers Association (SDRA), in 2019 there were 48,200 restaurant and food service jobs, which translates to 11% of total employment. More importantly, that number is projected to grow 9.8% by the year 2029. In contrast, the overall national expected growth is just 5%.
If you’re looking to get a job in the food and beverage industry in South Dakota, 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:
| Job Title | Average Hourly Wage | Average Yearly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| Dishwasher | $10.26 | $21,340 |
| Waiter/Waitress | $10.54 | $21,930 |
| Fast Food Cook | $10.71 | $22,280 |
| Restaurant Cook | $12.80 | $26,630 |
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 South Dakota?
South Dakota Department of Health: The Office of Health Protection assures health and safety standards are met in South Dakota food or lodging establishments.
South Dakota Legislature: Find the full language of the South Dakota Food Service Code here.
