MICHIGAN
FOOD MANAGER CERTIFICATION

Yes. Michigan law requires that all food establishments have a Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) on staff.

Pass an exam from an ANAB accredited program, such as AAA Food Handler’s Food Protection Manager Certification.

Michigan Food Manager Certification is valid for 5 years and must be renewed before expiration.

Yes. Michigan recognizes Food Protection Manager Certification from programs accredited by the ANAB and the Conference for Food Protection (CFP), making them valid statewide and nationwide.

Food handlers receive training in basic food safety practices such as proper hygiene, safe food handling, and prevention of cross-contamination. In contrast, food managers are responsible for a broader scope of duties, including ensuring compliance with local and state health regulations, overseeing staff training programs, maintaining proper documentation, managing foodborne illness risk, and ensuring the overall safety and sanitation of food operations.

Accreditation offers formal recognition of an organization’s competence, helping build trust with regulators, industries, and customers. It reduces redundancy, lowers costs, and supports smoother trade by setting recognized standards. Most importantly, it gives decision-makers confidence that the accredited organization delivers reliable, consistent results.

Yes. Michigan incorporates the 2009 FDA Model Food Code and enforces specific food safety rules such as:

• Hot holding temperature: 135°F or higher
• Cold holding temperature: 41°F or lower
• Comminuted meats: Must be cooked to 155°F for 15 seconds
• Bare-hand contact with ready-to-eat foods is not allowed unless a variance is approved
  

HACCP plans are required for special processes like reduced oxygen packaging (ROP), acidified rice (e.g., sushi), and similar procedures.

Yes, online training and exams are available and fully accepted in Michigan.

To comply with Michigan food safety regulations, food establishments must have at least one certified food protection manager (CFPM) on staff. Certification requires passing an ANAB-CFP-accredited exam, such as the one offered by AAA Food Handler. While self-study is permitted, taking a food safety manager course is highly recommended to ensure success.

Since 2017, Michigan also mandates that certified food managers complete a state-approved allergen training—AAA Food Handler provides both certifications to help you stay compliant.

Keep in mind, certain low-risk food operations may be exempt. It’s always best to confirm with your local health department for any additional rules or updates.

Food Safety Managers monitor all aspects of food safety operations, including overseeing food handling practices, maintaining sanitation standards, and ensuring proper storage and temperature control. They are responsible for training staff on safe food practices, conducting internal inspections, addressing potential hazards, and ensuring full compliance with the Michigan Food Code. Their role is essential in preventing foodborne illnesses, maintaining regulatory documentation, and preparing the facility for health inspections.

It helps prevent foodborne illness, ensures compliance, and boosts career opportunities.

To qualify, you must complete an approved course in nutrition and foodservice management and pass the Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) exam.

AAA Food Handler’s Food Manager Program fulfills the Certified Food Service Manager requirement in compliance with CFR § 483.60, Food and Nutrition Services.

 You can reach MDARD’s Food Industry Program through the following:

Address:
Constitution Hall, 6th Floor
525 W. Allegan Street
Lansing, Michigan 48909