California

California Food Allergy Certificate Training

ANAB-accredited

Complete online anytime, anywhere

Available in English and Spanish

Although the California Department of Public Health doesn't mandate a separate food allergy awareness certificate, the state requires knowledge of food allergens to be integrated into food manager and food handler training programs.

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Does California require food allergy training?

No, California does not require people who work in foodservice establishments to take a dedicated allergen awareness training.

However, California requires both food managers and handlers to take approved courses that include knowledge of food allergens. Food workers must know the foods defined as major food allergens by the Food and Drug Administration, the symptoms of an allergic reaction, and safe food handling practices for major food allergens, particularly how to prevent cross-contact.

Additionally, California was the fifth state to enact Elijah’s Law, which requires that childcare facilities have policies to protect children with food allergies. Under this law, each facility must have at least one staff member trained in managing food allergies.

Where can I read more about food allergen safety in California?

California Retail Food Code (CRFC): Provides detailed guidelines on food allergen awareness and safety protocols.

California Department of Public Health - Controlling Food Allergens: Describes key information regarding protecting customers from allergic reactions to food.

Trust20 Blog: Learn more about food allergies with Trust20’s allergen awareness information.

Who should receive training in allergen awareness?

Allergen awareness is a smart choice for anyone who works with food. Some employers ask foodservice professionals to go one step further with allergen certification, which offers more structured training on identifying and managing food allergens for customer safety.

How long does a food allergy certificate last?

Food allergen certificates are not required in California, but all food handlers must renew their food handler certificates every three years. This should be done by taking a course that includes a section covering food allergen awareness and general food safety.

Why should I choose Trust20’s Food Allergy Certificate Training?

Understanding food allergens is essential for anyone in a foodservice role. California regulations mandate that any foodservice professional must be capable of identifying major food allergens, as well as recognizing and identifying symptoms of an allergic reaction.

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Impartiality Statement: Trust20 understands and values the importance of impartiality in carrying out our certification activities. Trust20 has documented structures, policies, and procedures to manage conflicts of interest and ensure the objectivity of our certification activities. We identify and document any possibilities for conflicts of interest whether they arise from within or from the activities of related bodies. Trust20 will not provide certification to anybody related to a conflict of interest.

Interactive learning

Stay engaged throughout the course with dynamic lessons that include videos, matching, and decision-making activities.

State-specific resources

Learn about regulations and requirements specific to California, and download additional resources to help support your knowledge.

Real-world applications

Connect the course to your experiences via scenario-based learning developed by industry experts.

Accreditation #9065

Trust20's certification program is ANAB-CFP accredited.

Trust20's online, remote-proctored Certified Food Protection Manager exam is accredited by the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB) and Conference for Food Protection (CFP). This exam meets the requirements for food manager certification in most states, but please confirm your local requirements with the health department.

Learn why accreditation matters