Guam Issues Reminder: Food Handlers Must Be Certified

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  Food and Wine on Wed, Mar 04th, 2026 by Pacific Daily News
      Locale: UNITED STATES

Hagatna, Guam - March 4th, 2026 - The Department of Public Health and Social Services (DPHSS) has issued a formal reminder to all food retailers on Guam regarding the mandatory food handler certification requirement for all employees, a move aimed at bolstering food safety standards across the island. This isn't a new regulation, but DPHSS is emphasizing compliance as part of ongoing efforts to protect public health and prevent foodborne illnesses.

The reminder, released earlier today, clarifies that all individuals involved in the preparation, handling, and service of food - including management and supervisory personnel - must possess a valid food handler certification. The requirement is firmly rooted in the 10 Guam Administrative Code Chapter 17, the comprehensive Food Safety Rules and Regulations.

"Consistent adherence to proper food safety practices is paramount to ensuring the well-being of our community," stated a DPHSS spokesperson. "This certification isn't just a piece of paper; it represents a commitment to handling food responsibly and protecting our residents from potential harm."

The certification process involves training on crucial food safety principles, including proper handwashing techniques, safe food storage temperatures, prevention of cross-contamination, and recognizing signs of foodborne illness. This training is vital in equipping food handlers with the knowledge and skills necessary to minimize risks and maintain a safe food supply. Several accredited training providers operate on Guam, offering courses that satisfy the DPHSS requirements. A list of approved providers is available on the DPHSS website (https://www.dphss.guam.gov/).

One key aspect of the regulation that DPHSS is highlighting is the three-year renewal requirement. Certifications are not lifetime endorsements; food handlers must renew their certification every three years to demonstrate continued competency and stay updated on the latest food safety best practices. This periodic renewal ensures that employees remain informed about evolving food safety standards and are equipped to handle potential challenges.

The DPHSS has the authority to conduct routine inspections of food retail establishments to verify compliance with the food handler certification requirement. Retailers are expected to maintain accurate records of all employee certifications and make them readily available for inspection upon request. Non-compliance can result in warnings, fines, or even temporary suspension of operations.

This increased focus on food handler certification comes at a time when public awareness of food safety is at an all-time high. Recent outbreaks of foodborne illness in other regions have underscored the importance of stringent food safety protocols. While Guam has generally maintained a good record in this area, DPHSS is taking a proactive stance to prevent any potential incidents.

Industry leaders have largely welcomed the DPHSS reminder, recognizing the value of a well-trained workforce in maintaining consumer confidence. "Investing in food safety training is an investment in our businesses and in the health of our community," said Maria Santos, owner of a local restaurant chain. "We fully support DPHSS's efforts to ensure that all food handlers are properly certified."

Beyond the certification requirement, DPHSS encourages food retailers to implement comprehensive food safety management systems, including Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) plans. HACCP is a systematic approach to identifying, evaluating, and controlling food safety hazards, helping businesses to proactively prevent problems before they occur.

For more detailed information about the food handler certification requirement, including a complete list of approved training providers and the full text of 10 Guam Administrative Code Chapter 17, individuals are encouraged to contact the DPHSS Environmental Health Division at 735-7353 or visit the DPHSS website at https://www.dphss.guam.gov/. The department emphasizes that a collaborative effort between DPHSS, food retailers, and food handlers is essential to safeguard the public's health and ensure a safe and reliable food supply for all residents of Guam.