The food industry has been growing at an exponential rate over the last few years. Much of this growth was halted in 2020 due to the COVID-19 global pandemic. The rapid changes and multitude of public health orders made many foodservice operations look at all the safety measures in place for their establishment. Whether you are running a restaurant, a food processing business, or a local meat shop, one of the key safety aspects of any food business is food safety.
Some food businesses regard food safety as an extension of common sense and don’t invest in extensive training and getting certifications for their employees and food handlers. While the common-sense approach might work well enough for a person preparing food for themselves at home, it is not sufficient for businesses that are providing food to the public in Canada.
Here are some of the key reasons why you should obtain food and safety certification for your employees as soon as possible:
Clarifies The ‘Why’ Part of Various Task
Employees in the food industry often execute simple tasks without knowing the all-important reasons behind the task. Not knowing the importance and purpose of certain tasks can make them seem mundane and unimportant after some time and can lead to neglect by the workers. Food safety training will clarify the purpose behind cleaning and sanitizing certain equipment and how handling food properly is essential to avoid issues like cross-contamination. This will make them more diligent and instill the importance of treating essential tasks responsibly.
It Reduces Risks
Foodborne illnesses can cause expensive medical bills, and missing work or school days In Canada alone, over 4 million people get sick from contaminated food each year despite stringent measures. Most foodborne illnesses can be avoided with the best food safety practices. Preventing cross-contamination and other food-related issues can ensure customer safety and will also prevent the business reputation from getting affected.
It Is A Legal Requirement
Ensuring that the business complies with all food safety measures is mandatory by law in Canada and most industrialized countries such as the U.K., France, Italy, Germany, U.S.A. and Australia. Non-compliance can result in adverse consequences for businesses, such as penalties, possible lawsuits, and a bad reputation in the industry. By following the regulations for the industry set by the various governing bodies, you will safeguard your business against legal ramifications while boosting your business reputation.
Are you looking for a professional online service that can help you get food and safety certificates for your employees?
Canadian Food Safety Group is a premier independent certification company in Canada that has partnered with the SafeCheck® Brand Protection to provide exceptional food safety and quality solutions to all kinds of businesses within the food industry.
Get in touch with our team today to find out more about our various food safety and food handlers’ courses.
