Anyone who works with unpackaged food in El Paso must hold a Texas-accredited food handler card within 60 days of hire. Cards are valid for two years and must be available for inspection by El Paso Public Health staff.
Under Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 438 and El Paso Public Health rules, food handlers must complete a state-accredited training program covering hygiene, cross-contamination, time and temperature control, and allergen awareness. Training is offered online and in person, with bilingual options serving El Pasos majority Spanish-speaking workforce. Employers must keep copies of cards on site. Certified food managers, a separate higher tier, must also be on staff at most full service operations. Inspectors verify cards during routine restaurant grading visits and may issue citations to operators whose staff cannot produce valid documentation.
Working with unpackaged food without a valid food handler card, failing to keep cards on site, or hiring uncertified staff beyond the 60-day grace window can lead to citations during inspections.
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See how El Paso's food handler certification rules stack up against other locations.
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