Multilingual food safety training supports local workforce

DECATUR — The University of Illinois Extension is offering a free, multilingual Certified Food Protection Manager training. The training offering is to further its commitment to supporting workforce development and expanding access to food safety education.

The multi-session course will start with the first session on July 28 and 30. A second session will take place with dates set for August 4, 6, and 11. All sessions will be at Richland Community College in room SC01. The times will be from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

This training is in partnership with the Center for Hispanic & Immigrant Community Opportunities and the Macon County 4-H and Extension Foundation. 

Students will learn about the federal food code, including safe food handling, proper cooking temperatures, employee hygiene, and facility safety. 

“Learning in your primary language can support comprehension, particularly on complex topics like food safety in a restaurant,” says Nutrition and Wellness Educator Caitlin Mellendorf. “We’re excited to offer the training and exam for a second year with a live Spanish-language interpreter.”

Students must attend all sessions. Renewal of these certificates is due every five years. The class materials and exam will be written in Spanish. To register for the training, visit go.illinois.edu/CertifiedFood by July 6.

The University of Illinois Extension provides equal opportunities in programs and employment. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate, please call (217) 877-6042. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time for meeting your access needs.

Maria Lightner, University of Illinois Extension

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Maria Lightner is the marketing and communications program coordinator for the University of Illinois Extension. She currently serves the area covering DeWitt, Macon, and Piatt counties.

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