The “Texas Food Establishment Rules (TFER)” was recently revised and updated and effective October 11, 2015.  A major change in the revision now requires all food employees to complete an accredited food handlers training program within 60 days of employment, effective September 16, 2016. 

A food handlers course accredited by the Texas Department of State Health Services is being offered by Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, Shelby County.  Food Safety: It’s In Your Hands is scheduled for both Wednesday, December 9^th and 16^th starting at 9:00 a.m. at the active Shelby County Courthouse, 2^nd floor meeting room. 

This one 2-hour course will now be required for all food service employees to help promote the service of safe food. The certificate is good for 2 years and is valid anywhere in the State of Texas. The course is a basic overview of food safety practices that are necessary to ensure that safe food is served at your establishment. Practices discussed include good personal hygiene, cross contamination, and time and temperature abuse.

To register for the course, call the Extension office at 936-598-7744.  Registration can also be done in-person the day of the course.    The cost is $25.00 per person and must be paid in full before the course begins.  If you have any questions regarding this course, please contact Jheri-Lynn McSwain, County Extension Agent-Family & Consumer Sciences at 936-598-7744 or jlmcswain@ag.tamu.edu.