CFM: Certified Food Manager
A Certified Food Manager focuses on food safety practices in food service operations. In this guide, we will explore the key aspects of ISO 45001, including its significance, steps required for certification, benefits of implementation, and more.
What is a Certified Food Manager certification? Copied
A Certified Food Manager (CFM) is a certification offered by the International Food Service Executives Association (IFSEA) that proves an individual’s ability to effectively manage a food service operation. [1]
It focuses on areas such as:
- Food service management
- Nutrition
- Customer service
- Food safety
- HACCP
- Financial management
- Safety
- Culinary knowledge
A CFM certification is technically internationally recognized, but it is predominantly used in the United States.
Who needs an CFM certification? Copied
A CFM certification is not mandatory, but can greatly improve the reputation of both individuals and their organizations. In this sense, the certification is valuable to anyone working in a managerial capacity in a food service organization, as well as to food service organizations themselves.
How to earn an CFM certification Copied
To earn a CFM certification, an individual must currently hold a managerial or supervisory position in a food service organization.
If eligible, candidates can sign up for the online CFM exam. It consists of 80 multiple-choice questions, which candidates have 75 minutes to complete, and must score at least a 70% to pass. The CFM certification exam costs US $219.
The breakdown of the 80-question CFM exam is as follows;
- 8 questions on culinary arts
- 10 on customer service
- 12 on food safety
- 6 on HACCP
- 20 on food service management
- 10 on nutrition
- 4 on food service math
- 10 on operational employee safety
Renewal requirements for CFM certifications Copied
CFM certifications are valid for four years, after which time candidates must retake the exam and pass with a 70% or higher.
The benefits of CFM certification Copied
CFM certifications offer several benefits to individuals organizations. Some key advantages include the following.
Improved credibility
CFM certification signifies a high level of expertise in facility management, boosting professional and organizational credibility within the food service industry.
Operational efficiency
CFM-certified professionals implement best practices that can improve facility operations and maintenance, which can in turn result in cost savings and increased efficiency.
Upskilling and reskilling
CFM certification opens up higher-level job opportunities and promotions, allowing employees to be more easily upskilled or reskilled within an organization’s skills management strategy.
Challenges in earning a CFM certification Copied
Earning a CFM certification may pose several challenges to organizations. They include the following.
Time commitment
Preparing for the CFM certification exam may require a significant time investment, depending on the candidate’s experience and preparedness. This can be a challenge for professionals balancing work responsibilities.
Financial cost
The CFM certification process involves costs for study materials, exam fees, and potential preparatory courses. This can be expensive for both individuals and organizations – especially if multiple employees must earn certifications.
Staying compliant
Maintaining a CFM certification requires continuous education (and a method of tracking it) with candidates staying current with industry standards.
Tips and strategies for earning a CFM certification Copied
Here are a few tips for preparing for an ISO 45001 certification:
- Read the CFM Candidate Handbook
- Review the CFM training resources
- Take a CFM practice exam
Resources for CFM certification Copied
For more information and guidance on CFM certification, you can refer to the following resources.
International Food Service Executives Association. As the issuing body for CFM certifications, the IFSEA’s website should be the first stop for those seeking certification. There, you’ll find a number of resources, including the CFM Candidate Handbook.
HAACP certification guide. AG5 offers a free certification guide for HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points), which focuses on food safety in food production – and which is an important area of the CFM exam.
Food and beverage skills matrix template. Our free food and beverage skills matrix template can help you track and manage the skills, competencies, and certifications necessary for CFM certification.
Skills management for CFM certifications Copied
AG5 stores all certifications in the cloud, providing all authorized personnel with access to the right version of approved certifications. This helps you easily keep track of all data and documentation related to CFM certifications across your organization.
Using AG5’s skills management software, you can monitor the status of any type of certification that is relevant to your workforce, leveraging intuitive dashboards that provide you with a clear understanding of exactly what is needed to keep your employees skilled and safe.
Frequently asked questions about CFM certifications Copied
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What is the scope of a CFM certification?
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Is a CFM certification mandatory?
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How long does it take to obtain a CFM certification?
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What are the cost considerations for CFM certification?
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What is the validity period of a CFM certification?
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Can a CFM certification be integrated with any management systems?
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How can you learn more about CFM certification?
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APA
| Source number | Source title | Description | Date retrieved | Source URL |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Certified food manager (CFM)® | IFSEA | 26 Aug 2024 12:48:00 | https://www.ifsea.org/certifie.. |
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