Certified Food Protection Manager Requirements

Most Iowa food establishments are required to have a Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) on staff. These individuals are able to demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to oversee safe storage, preparation, and sale of food to the public.

Establishments with CFMPs typically:

• Have better food safety practices and behaviors
• Have fewer instances of foodborne illness
• Are less like to have serious violations on their inspections

Food Protection Manager certification courses are offered by several recognized organizations. Click here for a list and links to register for classes.

Iowa law requires that the Person in Charge at most food establishments be a CFPM who is up to date on their certification status.

Exceptions to the Certified Food Protection Manager requirement include: 

• Establishments which sell only prepackaged food,
• Temporary or Farmers Market food establishments,
• Establishments where food is not prepared and food service is limited to beverages, prepackaged snack foods, popcorn, peanuts, or commercially prepared foods that are reheated for immediate consumption,
• Establishments where food is not prepared and customers can purchase commercially prepared, non-time/temperature controlled foods intended for consumption at another location.

Iowa State University Extension and Outreach has upcoming ServSafe classes being offered in Spanish, including on April 25 in Iowa City and May 13 in Waterloo. Attendees must register at least three weeks prior to the class date.