A decade ago, food delivery apps were absent from our smartphone screens. Fast-forward to 2023, and we are now talking about a $1.3 billion industry here in Australia.
The rapid growth of food delivery apps has transformed the way we enjoy our favourite meals. With a few taps on your smartphone, you can have your preferred dish delivered right to your doorstep, providing unparalleled convenience.
However, this convenience also brings new challenges, particularly for Food Handlers who play a crucial role in ensuring food safety. In this blog, we will delve into essential food safety protocols for Food Handlers in the era of food delivery apps, emphasising the importance of Food Handler training and food safety education.
The Rise of Food Delivery Apps
Before we jump into the fundamentals of food safety in the age of delivery apps, let's first take a moment to appreciate the tremendous growth and impact of this industry. The use of food delivery apps was a key consumer trend during the COVID-19 pandemic, becoming an integral part of modern society almost overnight.
These online food ordering and delivery platforms remain hugely popular due to the fact they offer such a convenient solution for busy individuals and families looking for a quick and delicious meal without leaving the comfort of their homes.
According to IBISworld, the food delivery app sector has seen revenues grow by 26.5% in Australia over the last five years, with millions of orders being placed daily. This trend is not unique to Australia; it's a global phenomenon.
As the demand for food delivery services continues to surge, so does the responsibility of Food Handlers to ensure the safety and quality of the food they prepare and deliver. Let's explore the key aspects of food safety training that every Food Handler should be aware of in this new era.
Understanding the Role of Food Handlers
Many people already have negative perceptions of food delivery services when it comes to food safety, particularly due to well-publicised issues stemming from ‘ghost kitchen’ operators. This puts even more emphasis on Food Handlers as they play a critical role in maintaining the integrity of the food they serve.
They are responsible for preparing, handling, and packaging the food that ultimately reaches the consumers. Ensuring food safety is not just a legal requirement but also an ethical responsibility. Foodborne illnesses can lead to serious health issues and damage the reputation of the establishment, which could result in financial losses.
It only takes one lapse for a restaurant to lose a customer for good. Deloitte estimates that around 45% of consumers will turn their back on a restaurant after encountering a food safety issue.
Given the importance of their role, it is crucial for Food Handlers to be well-trained in food safety protocols. Proper training not only safeguards the public but also protects the Food Handler's own interests and career. Let's examine the key elements of Food Handler training.
The Importance of Food Handler Training
1. Knowledge is Power
When it comes to food safety, knowledge is power. A Food Handler training course, such as the one offered by the Australian Institute of Food Safety (AIFS) will equip individuals with the essential knowledge and skills required to handle food safely.
This training covers a wide range of topics, from proper food storage and handling techniques to personal hygiene and cross-contamination prevention. Food Handlers learn how to recognise potential food safety hazards and take appropriate action to mitigate them.
2. Legal Requirements
In Australia, and in many other countries, Food Handler training is not optional – it's a legal requirement. To comply with Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) Standard 3.2.2A, businesses must ensure that their staff, particularly those directly involved in food preparation, receive the necessary training. Failure to do so can result in fines, legal consequences, and even closure of the establishment.
3. Preventing Foodborne Illness
Foodborne illnesses are a serious public health concern. In Australia, it is estimated that around 4.1 million cases of food poisoning occur each year, resulting in over 31,000 hospitalisations, 1 million doctor visits, and 86 deaths.
Proper Food Handler training is a key measure in preventing foodborne illnesses. Food Handlers are educated on the risks associated with food mishandling and the steps to take to minimise these risks.
4. Building Trust and Reputation
Trust is a precious commodity in the food industry. A single food safety incident can erode trust and tarnish the reputation of a business. Customers are more likely to support a restaurant or food delivery service that prioritises their safety and well-being.
The Basics of Food Handler Training
5. Personal Hygiene
One of the fundamental principles of food safety is maintaining personal hygiene. Food Handlers must adhere to strict personal hygiene standards to prevent the spread of harmful microorganisms. This includes regular handwashing, the use of clean uniforms and appropriate protective gear, and the prohibition of working when sick.
6. Safe Food Handling
Proper Food Handling is crucial to prevent contamination and foodborne illnesses.Food Handler training covers the correct procedures for storing, defrosting, cooking, and serving food. It also addresses the importance of avoiding cross-contamination, which occurs when harmful microorganisms from one food item are transferred to another.
7. Temperature Control
Controlling the temperature of food is vital to ensuring its safety. Food Handlers training includes guidelines on maintaining appropriate temperature conditions during storage, transportation, and preparation. This is especially critical in the context of food delivery apps, where food can spend extended periods in transit.
8. Cleaning and Sanitising
Maintaining a clean and sanitised workspace is essential to prevent the growth and spread of harmful bacteria. Food Handlers are taught how to clean and sanitise food preparation areas, equipment, and utensils effectively. This includes the use of appropriate cleaning agents and santisers.
9. Food Allergen Awareness
In an era where food delivery apps make it easy to customise orders, Food Handlers need to be well-versed in food allergen awareness. Training programs educate Food Handlers on recognising allergen-containing ingredients, cross-contact prevention, and accurately conveying allergen information to customers.
Food Safety Training for Food Delivery Apps
Food safety training becomes even more critical when we consider the unique challenges posed by food delivery apps. Here are some factors to keep in mind when training Food Handlers for this specific context:
10. Time Sensitivity
Food delivery apps operate on tight schedules. Once an order is placed, there's little room for error in terms of food preparation and delivery times. Food Handlers need to be trained to work efficiently without compromising food safety. Time management is crucial.
11. Packaging and Transportation
Unlike dine-in or takeout orders, food delivered through apps faces a longer journey from kitchen to customer. Packaging is key to maintaining food safety during transit. Food Handlers must be trained to choose appropriate packaging materials and transportation methods to keep food at safe temperatures and prevent spillage or contamination.
12. Food Tracking and Delivery Protocols
Delivery apps often come with tracking features that allow customers to monitor the progress of their order in real-time. Food Handlers should be trained to adhere to specific delivery protocols to ensure the order reaches the customer promptly and safely. This includes proper handling during the delivery process.
The Role of Food Safety Training Providers
The Australian Institute of Food Safety offers courses designed to meet the specific needs of Food Handlers in various settings, including restaurants, takeout establishments, and food delivery apps. Here's what you can expect from AIFS:
13. Accreditation
In Australia, food safety training is governed at a federal level by Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA), with training requirements set out by FSANZ Standard 3.2.2A. However, states and territory health departments are responsible for enforcing these laws, and may have additional certification requirements specific to them.
For example, the New South Wales Food Authority (NSWFA) requires Food Safety Supervisors to complete an enhanced course that differs slightly from other states. At the end, AIFS issues the learners with an additional certificate on behalf of the NSWFA.
The Australian Institute of Food Safety is a nationally recognised Registered Training Organisation, approved by federal and state governments to deliver food safety training in line with the requirements described above.
14. Course Contents
The AIFS curriculum follows nationally recognised units of competency as well as the additional requirements stipulated by FSANZ Standard 3.2.2A. This provides participants with a well-rounded education, covering all the essential aspects of food safety, including personal hygiene, safe Food Handling, temperature control, cleaning and sanitising, and allergen awareness.
15. Practical and Interactive Learning
The best food safety training programs incorporate practical and interactive learning methods. This might include hands-on activities, real-life scenarios, and quizzes to reinforce learning. Interactive training tends to be more engaging and effective.
16. Online Options
In today’s digital world, online training programs have become increasingly popular. They offer flexibility and convenience, allowing Food Handlers to complete their training at their own pace. Look for programs that offer a user-friendly online platform. Online courses often include multimedia elements such as videos, interactive quizzes, and downloadable resources, enhancing the learning experience.
17. Continuing Education
Food safety is a dynamic field, and regulations can change over time. Ensure that the training program offers options for continuing education or recertification to keep Food Handlers up-to-date with the latest developments. This not only reinforces their knowledge but also demonstrates a commitment to ongoing professional development.
What’s next?
In the age of food delivery apps, Food Handlers are at the forefront of ensuring food safety. They play a pivotal role in preventing foodborne illnesses, protecting their business's reputation, and satisfying customer demands for safe and delicious meals. Food Handler training and food safety training are not just legal requirements; they are essential tools for maintaining the integrity of the food industry.
As a Food Handler, taking your training seriously is an investment in your career and the well-being of the community. The next time you enjoy a meal delivered to your doorstep, remember that there are dedicated professionals behind the scenes who have undergone rigorous training to ensure your food is safe and enjoyable.
If you are operating a food retail business, stay updated with the latest food safety protocols and invest in quality training. Your commitment to food safety not only protects your business but also contributes to a safer and healthier food landscape for all. Food safety is everyone's responsibility, and well-trained Food Handlers lead the way in keeping everyone safe.
Take the first step towards ensuring food safety by enrolling in a reputable Food Handler training program. Your career and the well-being of your customers depend on it.
Want to learn more before enrolling? Contact us and discover all the benefits of professional Food Handler training.
