The government is extending the validity of food handler’s permits in Jamaica from one year to two years.

Cabinet has approved amendments to the Public Health Act and its regulations to give effect to this change.

Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr. Christopher Tufton, made the announcement during last Wednesday’s (October 7) Post-Cabinet Press Briefing at Jamaica House in St. Andrew. Noting that the move is an important step in modernising the food handler’s permit programme, Dr. Tufton pointed out that approximately 300,000 Jamaicans apply for food handler’s permits each year.

These individuals range from small food vendors and operators of mobile food businesses to employees in major hotels and other establishments. The Minister observed that the existing annual renewal process can be inconvenient, as applicants are required to undergo the necessary process and obtain their certificates only to have to repeat the exercise the following year.

Under the approved amendments, persons who meet the health requirements for handling food for public consumption will have permits valid for two years. He stressed that the change will not affect inspections of food establishments.

Strict monitoring of food establishments

Public health inspectors will continue to have the authority to enter establishments and inspect food preparation, storage and other conditions.

The validity period of an individual’s permit is, therefore, separate from the Government’s responsibility to monitor food establishments.

Dr Tufton said the amendments will also facilitate greater convenience in paying for food handlers’ permits, including through online and other authorised payment agencies. 

He explained that the changes are intended to make the system more efficient while maintaining the necessary public health standards.