There are currently NO laws that require food handlers in the state of Minnesota to receive a food handlers license.
Be aware though that some employers or managers may end up requiring you to be tested and licensed regardless of state laws.
Although Minnesota law may not require food handlers to become license, they do require that every food establishment have at least one Certified Food Manager on staff. We will cover the details of a Food Manager Certification below.
Minnesota Food Safety Manager Certification
According to state law, Minnesota retail food establishments MUST have at least one person on staff who has passed a food service training and certification program. This requirement is covered by someone receiving a Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) card.
So although there is no Minnesota food handlers license requirement for common kitchen employees, it still may be in your best interest to receive and pass the test for Food Manager Certification/ CFPM.
Not only will this help you during your job application, but it will make you a safer and more well rounded employee.
In order to receive a food managers certificate, one must take a state-approved food safety course for managers… and successfully pass their test.
Minnesota currently recognizes and accepts certifications from the following National ANSI Certified Food Manager programs:
- 360Training.com, Inc.
- AboveTraining/StateFoodSafety.com
- National Registry of Food Safety Professionals
- National Restaurant Association
- Prometrics Inc.
- Always Food Safe
Keep in mind, local county agricultural departments are the regulatory body that oversees all food safety laws. And each county’s regulations may vary or evolve over the years.
Thus, it’s important to ALWAYS double check with your local department of agriculture on Minnesota food handling requirements, in addition to other retail food establishment specifics.