On July 9, 2024, Gaye Njorro Skills Academy’s Soma Annex students eagerly gathered for an enriching three-hour training session conducted by The Food Safety and Quality Assurance Authority (FSQA) Soma office. This event marked the beginning of a series of monthly sensitization programs designed to elevate the standards of food safety and quality among aspiring caterers.
The training was a comprehensive introduction to the crucial aspects of food safety and the importance of adhering to established protocols. As future professionals in the catering industry, the students learned why registering with FSQA is not just a requirement but a commitment to excellence and public health.
Key Highlights
- Importance of Registering with FSQA: The session began with an emphasis on why every potential caterer should register with FSQA. Registration is a critical step in ensuring that all food establishments meet the necessary safety standards, thereby protecting consumers and enhancing the business’s reputation.
- How to Register: Detailed guidance was provided on the registration process. Students were informed about the necessary documentation, the steps involved, and the importance of accuracy and honesty in providing information.
- Where to Register: The training also included practical information on the locations and offices where registration can be completed, ensuring that students know exactly where to go when they are ready to register their businesses.
Five Keys to Safer Food
A significant part of the training focused on the “Five Keys to Safer Food,” a set of guidelines that form the foundation of food safety practices worldwide. These keys are:
- Keep Clean: Students were taught the importance of maintaining cleanliness in all food preparation and handling aspects. This includes personal hygiene, kitchen cleanliness, and proper sanitation of utensils and equipment.
- Separate Raw from Cooked: The session highlighted the dangers of cross-contamination and the need to keep raw and cooked foods separate. This prevents harmful bacteria from raw foods from contaminating cooked items.
- Cook Thoroughly: Proper cooking techniques and temperatures were discussed to ensure that all food is cooked thoroughly, killing any harmful microorganisms that may be present.
- Keep Food at Safe Temperatures: The importance of maintaining safe temperatures for both storage and serving was stressed. Students learned about the critical temperature zones to prevent bacterial growth.
- Use Safe Water and Raw Materials: The training concluded with a focus on using safe, clean water and selecting high-quality raw materials. This is essential for preventing foodborne illnesses and ensuring the overall quality of the food prepared.
Although no certification was awarded at this initial training, the students were left with a wealth of knowledge and a clear understanding of the importance of food safety. This monthly sensitization program promises to build on this foundation, gradually equipping the students with the expertise they need to excel in the catering industry.
This initiative is not just about meeting regulatory requirements; it’s about fostering a culture of excellence and responsibility. By instilling these values early on, the FSQA and Gaye Njorro Skills Academy are paving the way for a new generation of skilled, conscientious food professionals who will uphold the highest standards of food safety and quality.
Are you passionate about pursuing a career in catering and committed to maintaining the highest food safety standards? Join the next generation of skilled professionals at Gaye Njorro Skills Academy Soma Annex. Register to gain the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in the culinary industry. Visit our Soma Annex office to learn more about the registration process and start your journey toward culinary excellence or visit our website: https://gayenjorroskillsacademy.com/how-to-apply/
