How Long Does Food Manager Training Take?
Completing food manager training is one of the best steps to prepare for the Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) exam.
Passing this exam and earning certification as CFPM is required by most places for at least one person-in-charge per shift at a food establishment.
If you’re someone who likes to plan ahead, you’re probably wondering how much time you’ll need to finish the training.
This article covers the basics of food manager training, including how long it typically takes to complete and how to choose the best course for you.
What is food manager training?
Food manager training is designed to help you prepare for the CFPM exam.
There are no prerequisites to taking the CFPM exam, meaning anyone can take it regardless of education level or foodservice experience, but completing food manager training is the best way to prepare for the exam.
Many organizations ad people offer food manager training both online and in-person. Most people prefer online training due to its convenience and ability to go back and review certain areas that you feel less comfortable with.
No matter the delivery format, it’s crucial to choose a food manager training course created by a trusted organization — like FoodSafePal — or experienced professionals in food safety since the quality of the course can directly impact your ability to pass the exam.
Most organizations that offer the CFPM exam also offer food manager training. FoodSafePal doesn’t yet offer the exam but it’s food manager training includes all the important concepts you need to know to pass — the first time.
Food Manager Prep Made Easy
Your best resource for preparing to pass the food safety manager certification exam with ease.
Summary
Food manager training prepares you to take the Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) exam.
How long does it take to complete food manager training?
Various food manager training courses and program exists but they generally take five to eight hours to complete.
Online courses are self-paced so the time to complete food manager training can be longer than four to eight hours if you take breaks.
Most food manager training courses include a 75 to 90 multiple-choice question mock test over the content covered. These questions are similar to the types you might expect to find on the actual exam.
Many organizations — including FoodSafePal — issue a certificate of completion after passing the test. This certificate is something to be proud of and demonstrates your knowlege of important food safety principles.
However, remember that this certificate does not certify you as a food manager. The only way to earn the CFPM credential is by passing the proctored exam administered by an accredited organization.
Most accredited organizations allow up to one minute per question, or around an hour-and-a-half to two hour time limit to finish the exam.
Summary
Expect to spend anywhere from five to eight hours to complete food manager training. When it comes to the exam, you’re usually given a time limit of an hour-and-a-half to two hours.
Which food manager training course is best?
Choosing the right food manager training course can feel overwhelming, especially with so many options available.
Fortunately, you can find the best food manager training for you by following these steps:
- Choose a course from a reputable organization. A reputable provider, such as FoodSafePal, develops course content based on the latest version of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Food Code, ensuring it aligns with current food safety standards. These organizations prioritize accuracy, relevance, and high-quality training, offering well-researched materials designed to prepare you effectively for the exam.
- Determine whether you prefer online or in-person. Online training offers flexibility and convenience, making it easy to fit into a busy schedule. In-person training provides a structured environment with direct interaction. Choose the format that suits your learning style and needs.
- Consider how much time you want to dedicate to training. Food manager courses — whether online or in-person — can range from five to eight hours. Keep in mind that longer doesn’t always mean better. Longer courses may include unnecessary fluff that adds time without providing additional value.
Following these steps will help you confidently choose a course that fits your schedule and learning style, while give you the best opportunity to pass the CFPM exam.
Summary
When deciding which food manager training course is best for you, consider the reputation of the organization offer it, whether you prefer online or in-person training, and how much time you want to dedicate to the training.
The bottom line
Completing a food manager training is the best way to ensure you’re ready for the CFPM exam.
Expect to spend anywhere from five to eight hours completing a food manager training course, depending on which one you choose.
When deciding which course is best for you, consider the reputation of the organization offering it, the format — online or in-person — and the time you want to dedicate to the training.
Food Manager Prep Made Easy
Your best resource for preparing to pass the food safety manager certification exam with ease.
