Minnesota Food Manager Certification And Testing Guide
Whether you manage a restaurant in Minneapolis or supervise a school cafeteria in Duluth, ensuring food safety in your establishment is more than a best practice—it’s the law in Minnesota. The state mandates that every food establishment must have at least one Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) to oversee food safety protocols and help prevent foodborne illness outbreaks.
This guide explains everything you need to know about earning your Minnesota food manager certification, including who needs it, how to get certified, and how AAA Food Handler makes the process simple and fully compliant.
Is Food Manager Certification Required in Minnesota?
Yes. According to the Minnesota Department of Health, any licensed food establishment must employ one Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM). This requirement applies to full-service restaurants, small eateries, and even to establishments that only reheat Ready-to-Eat Time/Temperature Control for Safety (TCS) foods.
Being certified demonstrates that you understand the critical principles of food safety and are prepared to manage the risks associated with food preparation and storage.
Who Needs to Be Certified in Minnesota?
All food establishments in Minnesota are required to designate at least one individual as the Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM). This rule applies to:
- Restaurants and cafés
- Institutional food services
- Grocery store delis
- Food trucks and mobile vendors
- School and university dining programs
- Nursing homes and assisted living facilities
Regardless of the size or scope of the operation, having a certified food manager is crucial for meeting state compliance standards and ensuring customer safety.The designated CFPM must be on site during all operating hours to ensure food safety compliance and respond to any inspection requirements.
What Kind of Certification Is Accepted in Minnesota?
To qualify as a Certified Food Protection Manager in Minnesota, you must pass an exam that is:
- Accredited by the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB)
- Recognized by the Conference for Food Protection (CFP)
These exams follow FDA Food Code standards and are recognized statewide. AAA Food Handler’s online certification exam meets all Minnesota requirements and is accepted across all counties.
What Is the Role of a Certified Food Protection Manager?
A CFPM in Minnesota is not just a title—it’s a responsibility. The certified individual must:
- Oversee food handling, preparation, and storage
- Train kitchen staff on hygiene and safety
- Maintain proper documentation and logs
- Ensure compliance with the Minnesota Food Code
- Respond to health inspections and enforce corrective actions
- Help reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses
In short, a CFPM is a food safety leader in the establishment.
How Long Is the Minnesota Food Manager Certification Valid?
In Minnesota, food manager certification is generally valid for five years from the date of issuance. After expiration, the CFPM must retake an approved exam to maintain their certified status. It’s recommended to renew the certification before it lapses to avoid disruptions in compliance or potential inspection violations.
Can the Certification Be Completed Online?
Yes. AAA Food Handler makes the certification process fast, flexible, and 100% online. With our online platform, you get:
- Self-paced food safety training (optional but highly recommended)
- ANAB-accredited certification exam
- Instant certificate download upon passing
- Support is available in both English and Spanish
- Dedicated customer service from start to finish
This is ideal for busy foodservice professionals who need to balance their schedules while maintaining compliance.
What Topics Are Covered in the Training?
AAA Food Handler’s training program covers the core food safety concepts needed to pass the exam, including:
- Time and temperature control
- Preventing cross-contamination
- Personal hygiene and health policies
- Cleaning and sanitizing food-contact surfaces
- Allergen awareness
- Foodborne illness risk factors
This curriculum ensures that you’re well-prepared for both the exam and real-world food safety challenges.
Is This Certification Accepted in Healthcare or Dietary Settings?
Yes. AAA Food Handler’s certification meets the standards outlined in CFR § 483.60, making it valid for:
- Healthcare kitchens
- Long-term care facilities
- Rehabilitation centers
- Any institution serving high-risk populations
It also supports career advancement for those on the path to becoming a Certified Dietary Manager (CDM).
Are There Any Special Notes or Exceptions?
Yes. One key requirement to note: every licensed food establishment must have at least one Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) on staff, even those that only reheat pre-cooked or packaged foods. There are no exemptions for small operators when it comes to public food safety responsibilities.
What Is the Official Regulatory Contact for the State of Minnesota?
If you need clarification on certification rules or state requirements, contact:
Minnesota Department of Health
Environmental Health Division
625 Robert Street North
St. Paul, Minnesota 55155
📞 Phone: (651) 201-4500
🌐 Website: www.health.state.mn.us
Operating Beyond Minnesota? Find Certification Info Here
AAA Food Handler also offers online food manager certification for other highly regulated states:
Wherever you operate, we help you stay food-safe and compliant with regulations.
Ready to Start Your Minnesota Food Manager Certification?
- 100% Online and Self-Paced
- ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB) Accredited
- Fully Accepted by the Minnesota Department of Health
- Available in English and Spanish
- Instant Certificate + Free Retest in Select Packages
