Food handlers must obtain certification cards, division reminds

The Environmental Health Division has reminded food handlers across the Virgin Islands to finalise their Food Handler Cards after completing mandatory safety training and passing the accompanying assessment.

Under the Public Health (Food Hygiene) Regulations, 1972, anyone employed in food business establishments must hold a valid card. Staff can visit the Division's office, situated on the ground floor of the Social Development Building next to the Red Cross Building, to finish the application.

Acting Chief Environmental Health Officer Henrietta Alexander noted that training completion and quiz success alone do not fulfil certification requirements. "Completing the training and passing the quiz are important steps, but the process is not complete until the Food Handler Card is obtained or updated," she said. "We are therefore encouraging food handlers to ensure that their certification is properly documented and that they remain compliant with the Territory's food hygiene requirements."

Food business operators bear responsibility for verifying that their workforce has finished training, passed assessments and secured their cards. The Division said it remains focused on advancing safe food handling practices and maintaining compliance with hygiene standards to protect community health.

For assistance, the Environmental Health Division can be reached at (284) 468-5110 or [email protected].