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Purchase our online Food Manager Training for multiple employees by purchasing in bulk.
You can call our team at 720.791.2050 to discuss your certification needs in more detail or email us at sales@alwaysfoodsafe.com.
State Regulation
In 2009, Massachusetts became the first state to set requirements for Food Allergen Awareness under MGL Ch 140, S. 6B. As you know, retail food establishments that cook, prepare, or serve food intended for immediate consumption either on or off the premises must meet the allergen awareness requirements of 105 CMR 590.000: State sanitary code chapter X: Minimum sanitation standards for food establishments.
Each food service establishment must have a Person in Charge on staff who is also a certified food protection manager and who has completed allergen awareness training. A person in charge must always be on-site during operating hours and demonstrate knowledge of food allergens and the symptoms they can cause in people with food allergies. Additionally, they must ensure that all employees are trained in food safety and allergen awareness, relevant to their roles.
Always Food Safe’s Allergen Awareness Certificate is approved in Massachusetts to prove that a ‘Person in Charge’ has completed approved allergen training.
Additional Information
Learn more about our training programs and exam process.
Allergen Awareness Certificate
Always Food Safe uses video-based learning to give managers in-depth knowledge of food safety and help them run a safer restaurant.
Online, video-based format
Prices range depending on the state with no supporting materials to purchase
The course takes around 1 hour to complete
Course available in English and Spanish
Available for all 50 states
For more details, view our course guidelines.
Who Needs Allergen Awareness Training?
Regulations differ by state, by selecting your state from the drop-down box above it will break down exact regulations for your state/county.
However, everyone who works within the food industry has a legal and moral obligation to have a basic knowledge of food allergies, and this is why this course is highly recommended to everyone within the industry.
What States Require Food Allergen Training?
Each passing year sees more states bring in legislation that makes allergen training a legal requirement. Currently, 5 states and 1 county require allergen training, including:
Illinois
Michigan
Rhode Island
Massachusetts
Virginia
Montgomery County, Maryland
If your state currently does not have any legal requirement, under federal law, FDA Food Code 2013, you still have a legal responsibility to serve food that is safe and do everything possible to protect the consumer. Protecting an allergy sufferer falls within this Food Code.
We strongly recommend that anyone who works within the food industry completes an allergen training course.
Remember a basic mistake could result in a severe allergic reaction and health risks.
Learning Objectives
Describe how individuals can take personal responsibility to help protect an allergy sufferer from a food allergy-related incident
Identify the 8 major allergens, hidden allergens, and the importance of clear labeling
State the importance of keeping work areas clean and hygienic and the role of personal hygiene
Define the steps required to keep allergenic-free food safe from cross-contact
Course Contents
This course gives you the knowledge to protect your customers from allergens, covering areas such as common food allergies, risks of cross-contamination, and proper storage techniques. It is broken down into 6 chapters:
Chapter 1: Allergens and the Law
What are the laws surrounding allergens and allergen training?
Chapter 2: Introduction to Allergens
Get introduced to what allergens are and how they could affect your customers if exposed.
Chapter 3: The 9 Named Allergens
Learn about the 9 most common allergens.
Chapter 4: Recipe Creation to Storage
How to create recipes and store food to prevent allergen contamination.
Chapter 5: Preparation Through to Service
Prevent a customer's food from coming into contact with an allergen while preparing and serving.
Chapter 6: Cleaning & Personal Hygiene
Keep everything clean to prevent cross-contamination.
Get a more in-depth look at our course contents.
By the end of this course you will be able to:
• Understand what are the causes of an allergic reaction.
• Identify the 9 main food allergens.
• Identify cross-contact risks and understand methods for preventing cross-contact in the workplace through cleaning and sanitizing, good personal hygiene, and controlling the flow of food.
• Understand how to listen and communicate with customers who have food allergies, and how to communicate within the operation from the customer, through the front of the house to the kitchen, including co-workers, chefs, and managers.
• Be able to recognize the most common symptoms of an allergic reaction, and how to deal with an attack.
The course is split into 6 chapters and explains in detail everything you need to make sure you and your customers are safe.
Chapter 1- Introduction
Chapter 2- Introduction to Allergens
• What is a Food Allergy and how does it affect someone?
• What is Coeliac Disease and what is Gluten?
• Symptoms of an Allergic Reaction
• Anaphylactic Shock
• Recognizing an Attack
• Emergency Procedures
Chapter 3 – The 9 Allergens
• Allergenic Foods include:
• Hidden Allergens
• Avoiding Allergic Reactions
Chapter 4 – Recipe creation to storage
• Communication Methods
• Recipe Creation
• Creating a System
• Adapting a Recipe for an Allergy Sufferer
• Suppliers
• Dry Storage
• Chilled & Frozen Storage
Chapter 5 – Preparation through to service
• Food Preparation – Cook – Assembly of Dish
• Front of House Service
• Self Service
• Menu Information
• Front of House Staff
Chapter 6 – Cleaning
• Required Procedures
• Front of House
How it Works
Before starting the course, we thought we would give you a quick overview of how it works and hopefully answer some of the questions you may have.
At any stage, if you have any other questions or need more information, please speak to one of the team. You can either call us toll-free on 1-844-312-2011 or email help@alwaysfoodsafe.com
We are happy to answer any questions.
- Certificate Program Purpose, Scope & Intended Learning Outcomes
The purpose of this course is to provide learners, with the necessary good practices, including legal requirements, that must be applied to the storage and cooking of food, as well as the basic principles of good practice needed to keep food areas/kitchens clean and safe. Achievement of the course will enable learners to identify how to make changes to foodservice practices in order to improve the safety of the food as a whole.
This course provides learners with food safety knowledge directly relevant to the foodservice, catering, leisure, and hospitality industry, which constitutes the program scope.
The following are the requirements to earn the certificate:
- Complete 100% of the course study materials.
- Pass the end-of-course assessment with a passing score established by an industry accepted methodology.
The Final Exam
Once you have completed all the learning and you feel ready to take the test, go to the final chapter, (exam), and take the test.
The multiple-choice exam consists of 40 questions and a pass mark of 75% will be required.
You are permitted 2 attempts at the exam, (within the 30 days). If you fail all of the 2 attempts, you will be required to re-watch all the learning material before being allowed to take the final exam again.
For a full breakdown of what’s included course content and learning outcomes, please see our guide: Course Content and Learning Outcomes at the bottom of this page.
- Certificate Requisites (What you need)
The only things you really need is an ability to read either English or Spanish and a have basic understanding of computers/IT skills to be able to log onto the system. Please note it is only a very basic level, as the course is simple and easy to access and use.
You will need access to a printer, (home or work), if you need to print off your certificate or food card for work.
There are no minimum requirements on hearing as the course has both video-based and written content. You also do not need to have had any training before and is designed for people new to the industry or retaking to update their certificate.
The course is available in either English or Spanish. Please note if you start in English, you cannot then swap to Spanish, or vice versa.
Please note: Once you register and start learning, you have 30 days to complete and pass the Final Exam. Before you register, the course has no shelf-life.
- Course Design (Instructional Personnel)
The program’s primary course developer is Nick Eastwood. Nick holds a Level 4 Advanced Food Qualifications and has been involved in the training industry for over 10 years and has in total, over 30 years’ food industry experience.
We also have in place an Advisory Group, (group of experts) that helps us to develop, test, monitor, feedback and approve our courses.
We test and ask for their feedback on course content, relevance, information provided, quality of extra learning materials, in-course questions and the final exam.
- Fees, Cancellation & Refund Policies
The fee per course, (including learner material and final exam), is detailed before purchase and we believe at a very competitive price.
Refund Policy
We offer a refund in circumstances such as accidently purchasing more than one course, or you have subsequently found your current certificate.
Please note:
- Once you begin your training or examination, a refund is ineligible.
- You have 30 days from initial purchase to claim a refund.
You can either call us toll-free on 1-844-312-2011 or email help@alwaysfoodsafe.com
Refunds will be processed and credited to you through the third-party payment partner you initially used. (Credit Card/PayPal).
How it works:
- Learner requests refund
- Date of purchase checked
- Completion of exam checked
- Decision to refund/not refund made
- Refund processed and credited via initial payment method
- Details recorded in complaints/refund log
- Certificate Issuance
Certificates are issued only to qualifying users who have met the following criteria:
- Completion of online course training material
- Successful completion of online examination
Certificates are automatically generated when the qualifying examination score is achieved. We cannot and will not artificially create or issue a certificate to someone who has not successfully passed the online examination.
Certificate Use
Certificate use is defined and dictated by partnered health department officials, state or local laws or regulations, and/or legislative documents.
The Always Safer Food Company does not grant credentials or acronyms to any individual successfully completing any of its certificate programs.
Certificate Invalidation - Cheating
We have the right to invalidate any certificate that comes under suspicion of fraudulent behavior.
This may include but is not limited to:
- Fraudulent or otherwise dishonest completion of the online examination
- Duplicated or otherwise “doctored” certificate
The decision to invalidate is carried out by our certificate committee, which comprises of the President and the Responsible Officer, (Awards & Examination).
- Confidential Information - Privacy Policy
Keeping food safe is our business but we also prioritize keeping safe the information that you give to us.
When you take part in our training, there’s various information (data) that we need to know about you – like your name and where you work and live. So, like any fair and responsible business that holds customer data, we have a privacy policy that explains how we protect and process this information.
Registration - When you sign-up
As a Registered User, you will create a user ID, choose a password, and create a profile. This is your own personal training ID and if you think that someone else is using your training ID, then you need to let us know right away. Please remember to keep your password confidential.
Entering this information means you authorize us to collect and share information as set forth in this Privacy Policy.
How we protect and process your information is fully documented in our Privacy Policy document. If you would like to see a copy of this, please speak to one of the team. We also adhere to the Children’s Privacy Laws and Your California Privacy Rights/Do Not Track Disclosures. Again, this is fully documented in our Privacy Policy document.
You can either call us toll-free on 1-844-312-2011 or email help@alwaysfoodsafe.com We are happy to answer any questions.
As The Always Food Safe Company LLC is a self-generating, profit-making enterprise, we accept no financial support from outside entities.
- Changes to the Course
The guiding framework will be reviewed at least annually during the program evaluation by our Advisory Group to make certain it remains aligned and appropriate to keep the program current, relevant and valuable to its primary stakeholders. The Advisory Group is a collection of individuals that work within the food industry. The group consists of people with various levels of experience and roles within the industry.
o We believe this gives a balance across both sectors and experience.
o We want to achieve this balance between what a Health Official is looking for and the needs of a food business.
o Any changes the Advisory Group suggests are then reviewed and added or removed from the course.
Additional Information
Learning - How Does It Work?
All our courses are specifically developed as online learning programs.
The course is broken down into chapters that you need to study. Watch the video content and then complete the end of chapter, quick exam questions. They are at the bottom of each chapter page.
Please Note: You must watch the entire chapter video and answer the 3 questions correctly before it will allow you to move onto the next chapter. You are not allowed to go straight to the exam.
You can also access the course and study whenever you want, 24/7. You can leave the course at the end of a chapter and just pick up where you left off.
The Final Exam
Once you have completed all the learning and you feel ready to take the test, go to the final chapter, (exam), and take the test.
The multiple-choice exam consists of 40 questions and a pass mark of 75% will be required.
You are permitted 2 attempts at the exam, (within the 30 days). If you fail all of the 2 attempts, you will be required to re-watch all the learning material before being allowed to take the final exam again.
Exam Result
Results of your test are immediate.
Your certificate is immediately issued as a pdf document, is sent to you via email, and also permanently stored in your own admin area.
How Long Does the Certificate Last For? (Term of Validity)
The quick answer is that this certificate lasts for 3 years. It is a personal certificate which means that you can take it to another job. It is your certificate!
The long answer is that it is based on two important points. Firstly, the FDA Food Code which recommends that every learner has the opportunity to update their knowledge on a timely basis.
In addition, many States insist that you receive training within 30 days of employment and this knowledge must be re-tested every 3 years. Also, training programs should be accredited by ANSI.
Complaints
Hopefully you won’t have any. However, if you do, then please talk to us!
You can either call us toll-free on 1-844-312-2011 or email help@alwaysfoodsafe.com
If you do have a complaint, about the course, your exam result, or a member of staff, for example:
- Contact one of our Customer Service Team on the above number/email.
- We will endeavor to respond to you very quickly and within 14 days.
- If we fail to address your concerns, we will then escalate this to one of our senior managers.
- A response will then be formally sent within a 14-day period.
As mentioned at the start, we always intend to deal with any complaint you have in a speedy and fair manner.
Appeals
Candidates have a right to appeal or request a re-mark should they be dissatisfied with their final marks.
You can either call us toll-free on 1-844-312-2011 or email help@alwaysfoodsafe.com
If you do wish to appeal:
- Contact one of our Customer Service Team on the above number/email.
- The individual learner exam file will be requested from the system, accessed and the electronic paper remarked and rechecked.
- We will endeavor to respond to you very quickly and within 14 days.
- If we fail to address your concerns, we will then escalate this to one of our senior managers.
- A response will then be formally sent within a 14-day period.
Equality & Diversity
As a company, we are committed to ensuring consistent equality of opportunity.
Candidates are encouraged to inform the company of any particular special or additional need before purchasing a training course.
We will make all reasonable efforts to assess individual candidate requirements with regards to a disability, medical condition, or learning need. Within reasonable limits, appropriate training and assessment methods will be used in order that the candidate is not unfairly disadvantaged in terms of gaining his/her qualification.
We certainly hope that you found this helpful.
At any stage,if you have any questions or need more information, please speak to one of the team. You can either call us toll-free on 1-844-312-2011 or email help@alwaysfoodsafe.com
We are happy to answer any questions.
Learning Outcomes & Course Content
Learning Outcomes
- Describe how individuals can take personal responsibility to help protect an allergy sufferer from a food allergy related incident
- Identify the 8 Major allergens, hidden allergens and the importance of clear labelling
- State the importance of keeping work areas clean and hygienic and role the of personal hygiene
- Define the steps required to keep allergenic free food safe from cross contact
Course Content
Chapter 1: Allergens & the Law
Candidates will describe the increasing incidence of allergenic contamination and the rising numbers of people who now have a Food Allergy and will be able to:
- Describe the growing threat to consumers and the food industry
- State the statistics behind the headlines
- Give examples of potentially unsafe practices concerning allergenic food ingredients
- State the possible consequences of non-compliance with food safety law
- Explain what a Due diligence defense is
Chapter 2: Introduction to Allergens
Candidates will define the concept of allergens, the difference between a food allergy and a food intolerance. Symptoms of an allergenic reaction, anaphylactic shock and how to recognize an attack, and will be able to:
- Describe the terms food allergy, food intolerance and Coeliac disease
- State how gluten affects a sufferer
- Explain what the term anaphylaxis means
- Detail how to recognize the symptoms of an allergic reaction (an anaphylactic attack)
- State basic emergency procedures if someone is having an attack
- Describe the 4-step response to a potential allergenic attack (anaphylaxis)
Chapter 3: The 9 Named Allergens
Candidates should define the 9 most common Food Allergens listed by the FDA, the importance of being able to identify “hidden allergens” and of clear food labelling and will be able to:
- State the 9 named allergenic ingredients listed by the FDA
- Give examples of foods/dishes where named allergenic ingredients are commonly used
- Give examples of alternative ingredients to the named allergenic ingredients
- Give examples of hidden allergenic ingredients in common foods and dishes
- Detail the importance of clear food labelling
- Detail how to help a sufferer avoid an allergenic reaction
- Give examples of potentially unsafe practices concerning allergenic food ingredients
Chapter 4: Recipe Creation to Storage
Candidates will consider safe and appropriate practices such as communication methods, recipe creation, developing a system, adapting a recipe for an allergy sufferer, suppliers and storage and will be able to:
- Detail how to create a simple system to manage the use of allergenic ingredients
- State the importance of clear communication in the use of allergenic ingredients
- Explain how to create recipe and customer ingredient information sheets
- Give examples of how to adapt a recipe or dish for an allergy sufferer
- Describe procedures required for dealing with foods that may cause allergic reactions
- State the importance of appropriate suppliers and delivery
- Detail dry, chilled and frozen storage procedures to reduce the risks of cross contamination
Chapter 5: Preparation through to Service
Candidates will explain the main dangers involved at the following key stages, Food Preparation – Cook – Assembly of Dish, Front of House Service and will be able to:
- Explain the importance of good management systems and clear communication
- Detail the importance of clear communication with all staff
- Describe appropriate communication between front-of-house staff and kitchen
- Give examples of the steps required to avoid cross contamination
- Give examples of the main danger points in a self-service area
- Give examples of the communication required with a customer
- Describe the important role front of house staff can play in preventing cross contamination
Chapter 6: Cleaning & Personal Hygiene
Candidates will state the importance that cleaning, and personal hygiene play in helping to reduce cross contamination and will be able to:
- Explain the importance of cleaning, and handwashing in helping to reduce cross-contamination
- State the importance of personal hygiene in food handling
- Detail the required cleaning procedures for a kitchen
- Explain how and when to wash
- Detail the required cleaning procedures for front of house areas such as work-stations and self-service areas
- State the importance of cleaning schedules
- Describe how thorough cleaning of Front of House can reduce the risks of cross contamination
Learn more about Always Food Safe Allergen Awareness training.
Why is food allergen training important?
Over 15 million Americans now have a food-based allergy and the number is growing.
Frighteningly, over 150 people a year die from a food allergy, and as an industry, we all have a moral and legal duty to protect the customers we serve.
Food Allergies are a serious and growing threat you need to be aware of. Simply put, a basic mistake could cause a life-threatening allergic reaction.
This course is designed to provide managers, food handlers, and servers with an understanding of food allergens, where they can go wrong, and how you can help to minimize the risks to a sufferer, day in, and day out.
Is Always Food Safe's Allergen training similar to ServSafe or other allergen awareness certificates?
Yes, it is!
Servsafe, similar to ourselves, is one of the training providers that have achieved ANSI Accreditation status. Several other training providers have also attained ANSI accreditation.
This means that you can be assured that all ANAB-accredited companies have gone through a rigorous checking process to ensure they meet the standards required.
This is an intensive, 12-month process, and the few training providers that are awarded ANSI accreditation can justifiably be proud of gaining this prestigious recognition!
All these other training providers meet the required standards for accrediting courses. The course content is the same, although chapter headings and the order of the chapters may vary. However, all training materials must be in line with current government guidelines (FDA Food Code 2017).
When will I need to renew my certificate of Allergen Awareness training?
Again, different states, counties, and cities have different rules on how often they expect you to refresh your Allergen Awareness learning. As a recommended guide, Allergen Awareness training needs to be re-taken/refreshed every 3 years (Illinois is a mandatory 3-year renewal). We do suggest you check with your local health authority.
How can I get a copy of my Allergen Awareness Certificate?
You will be able to download your certificate as a PDF document when you pass the test. You can then print or save to your computer. The certificate is held on the system and you can log back in and download it at any time.
"Taking the Always Food Safe Company’s Online Allergen Awareness Course was absolutely time well spent.
The format was clear and easy to follow, and the content was exactly what workers in the trenches – both front and back of the house – need to know to ace this particular, important and often overlooked part of their jobs.
Having the option to learn the material by either watching the videos or reading the text makes it possible for all employees to benefit from the course. In either case, the program is as entertaining as it is informative, making it easy to understand and absorb the material.
The sections on hidden allergens and cross-contamination are especially welcome, being points that may be easily overlooked by cooks and waiters alike.
Overall, the production is of a very high quality, and the content and delivery spot on. The downloadable pdf of allergens is a useful bonus."
Joe Abuso
Chef/Principal
Recipes & Rotations – Real Food for Mom and Dad
Allergen Awareness: How it works
From our Blogs:
Why It's So Important For Your Staff to Understand Food Allergies
Hosting an Allergen-Free Party
Downloadable Resources:
Allergen Awareness FAQs
Understanding Allergen Awareness Certificate Massachusetts Requirements
Massachusetts set a pioneering example in food safety by becoming the first state to require allergen awareness training under MGL Ch 140, S. 6B. This regulation mandates that Food Protection Managers in establishments serving prepared foods must obtain allergen awareness certification in Massachusetts. The goal is to ensure these managers know how to prevent allergen-related incidents and protect customers with allergies. Always Food Safe also offers other valuable training programs, like Food Handler Certification or Food Protection Manager Certification.
Completing Massachusetts allergen training equips food managers with essential knowledge about common allergens and cross-contact prevention. Managers learn practical skills to communicate effectively with staff and customers about allergen risks. By following this training, establishments can significantly reduce the likelihood of allergic reactions among patrons. Ultimately, obtaining an allergy awareness certificate in Massachusetts demonstrates your commitment to customer safety and regulatory compliance.
Why Massachusetts Allergen Awareness Training Matters
Food allergies affect millions of Americans, and Massachusetts recognized early the importance of addressing this issue through mandatory allergen awareness training. By requiring Food Protection Managers to complete this training, the state aims to minimize allergen risks in restaurants and food service establishments. Proper allergen awareness training in MA helps managers identify potential hazards and implement effective prevention measures. This proactive approach protects customers and enhances public confidence in Massachusetts food establishments.
Core Topics Covered in Massachusetts Allergen Training
Massachusetts allergen awareness training covers critical topics such as recognizing the eight major food allergens, understanding symptoms of allergic reactions, and preventing cross-contact during food preparation. Managers also learn effective communication strategies to inform customers clearly about allergen risks. The training emphasizes practical procedures for handling ingredients safely and maintaining allergen-free zones. Completing this program ensures food managers have comprehensive knowledge to maintain a safe dining experience for customers with allergies.
Steps to Obtain Your Allergen Awareness Certificate in Massachusetts
Getting certified in allergen awareness in Massachusetts is straightforward and convenient with Always Food Safe. The online training is interactive, informative, and designed specifically to meet Massachusetts state requirements. Upon successful completion, managers receive their allergen awareness certificate, valid for five years. Staying certified ensures your establishment remains compliant and prepared to handle allergen safety effectively.
Certification Eligibility
Massachusetts requires Food Protection Managers at establishments preparing or serving food for immediate consumption to obtain allergen awareness certification.
Training Content
The course provides detailed instruction on allergen identification, cross-contact prevention, and clear customer communication regarding food allergens.
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts Allergen Awareness Training
Do you have questions about obtaining your allergen awareness certificate in Massachusetts? We've compiled answers to common inquiries to assist you in understanding the certification process and its importance. Whether you're curious about eligibility, course content, or renewal procedures, we're here to clarify. Read through these FAQs to gain helpful insights into Massachusetts allergen training requirements.
Who must complete allergen awareness training in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts requires Food Protection Managers in establishments serving prepared foods to complete allergen awareness training to ensure customer safety.
What are the main allergens covered in the training?
How often must I renew my Massachusetts allergen certificate?
Is the Massachusetts allergen awareness training available online?
Why is allergen training important for Massachusetts food establishments?
Where can I complete or renew my Massachusetts allergen awareness certificate?
Earn Your Massachusetts Allergen Awareness Certificate Now
Ready to obtain your allergen awareness certificate in Massachusetts? Always Food Safe makes the certification process simple, convenient, and compliant with state regulations. Begin your training today to ensure your establishment prioritizes customer safety and meets Massachusetts food safety standards. For any questions or assistance, feel free to contact us here.
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