How to Get a Missouri Food Manager Certification?

If you work in the food service industry in Missouri, understanding local food safety requirements is essential. While Missouri food manager certification is not mandated statewide, many counties and cities require that food establishments have a Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) on-site.

This guide explains where certification is required, what the process involves, and how to get started with a nationally recognized program that meets Missouri’s health department expectations.

Is Food Manager Certification Required Statewide in Missouri?

No. The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services does not require food manager certification at the state level. However, local jurisdictions may have specific rules in place. Food establishments must comply with county or city health ordinances, especially those that follow the FDA Food Code and require a certified manager as part of their inspection standards.

Which Counties and Cities in Missouri Require a Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM)?

Certification is required in the following counties and cities:

Counties: Boone, Cape Girardeau, Cass, Clay, Dent, Franklin, Jefferson, Greene,Lincoln, Marion, Platte, St. Charles, and St. Louis
Cities: Independence, Kansas City, and St. Louis

In these jurisdictions, food establishments must have at least one Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) per location. Certification helps ensure that food safety practices are properly implemented and maintained daily.

What Type of Certification Is Accepted in Missouri?

In counties and cities that require certification, food managers must pass an exam accredited by the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB) and recognized by the Conference for Food Protection (CFP). These nationally accredited exams verify that managers understand key food safety principles and meet federal and local regulatory requirements.

AAA Food Handler offers ANAB-accredited options that are accepted in all required Missouri jurisdictions, with training and exam options available 100% online.

How Long Is the Food Protection Manager Certification in Missouri valid?

In areas where certification is required, the Food Protection Manager Certification is valid for five years. This means certified managers must renew their certification every five years to remain compliant and up to date with evolving food safety guidelines.

Who Needs to Be Certified in Missouri Food Establishments?

In jurisdictions that mandate certification, each food facility must employ at least one Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM). This person must be available or accessible to ensure that the establishment follows safe food handling practices at all times.

Roles typically requiring certification include:

General Managers
Executive Chefs
Kitchen Supervisors
Food Safety Coordinators
School or Healthcare Food Service Leads

Certification helps ensure that someone on staff has the knowledge and authority to implement food safety systems effectively.

What Topics Are Covered in the Food Manager Training?

While not always mandatory, food manager training provides essential knowledge that prepares candidates for the exam and their roles. AAA Food Handler’s optional training covers:

Time and temperature control
Preventing cross-contamination
Cleaning and sanitizing procedures
Allergen management
Proper food storage and labeling
Foodborne illness prevention
Personal hygiene and illness policies

This training is self-paced and can be accessed online anytime, from any device.

How Is the Food Manager Certification in Missouri Exam Structured?

The exam is designed to test a candidate’s knowledge of food safety best practices based on the FDA Food Code. Key details include:

Multiple-choice format
Closed-book, timed exam
Proctored testing environment
Available fully online
The passing score is typically set at 70% or higher
The certificate is available instantly upon passing

AAA Food Handler offers complete preparation materials, including optional practice tests, to support your success.

Is the Food Manager Certification Accepted in Healthcare or Dietary Settings in Missouri?

Yes. The certification offered by AAA Food Handler aligns with food safety regulations outlined in CFR § 483.60, which governs dietary services in healthcare and long-term care facilities. This makes it a suitable credential for professionals working in hospitals, nursing homes, and assisted living centers, or those pursuing a Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) credential.

Can the Food Manager Certification Be Completed Entirely Online?

Yes. AAA Food Handler offers a fully online process for both training and certification:

Access training anytime, on any device
Take the exam from a secure online platform
Receive your certificate immediately after passing
Download and store your certificate for inspection compliance

This flexible model is ideal for busy professionals who need a trusted and time-efficient certification process.

What Is the Official Food Safety Contact for Missouri?

For questions about food safety oversight and regional requirements in Missouri, contact:

Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services
Bureau of Environmental Health Services
912 Wildwood
Jefferson City, Missouri 65102
Phone: (573) 751-6095
Website: www.health.mo.gov

Note: Certification requirements are enforced at the county and city levels, so it’s always important to check with your local health authority for updates.