Basic food hygiene training for students or new staff in food businesses can now be delivered in a fraction of the time and at a fraction of the cost, compared to traditional methods, thanks to a new initiative from Improve, the recently formed food and drink Sector Skills Council.

'Food Hygiene – Cover the Basics' is a one-hour basic food hygiene training programme, provided on a CD-ROM.  It is an alternative to the standard one-day programme that many training providers and employers have said is excessive for the needs of their students and staff.

"Regulations state that people in the sector are required to complete food hygiene training that is commensurate with the needs of their job," explained Derek Williams, Director of Workforce Development at Improve.

"The fact is that for a lot of people a one-day programme is more than they need, and too costly in time and money. A large number of employers have been crying-out for an alternative as all they need is something very simple that they can complete on a computer, in about an hour. For them, Improve's solution is an ideal option, especially when combined with essential on-the-job training."

The training programme comprises four modules:

-  Personal hygiene

-  Food safety

-  Cleaning in food premises

-  Waste & pest control

The learner follows the instructions on screen, and when the programme has been completed successfully, can print off a certificate.
 
The new training programme meets the requirements of the Codex Alimentarius Commission, which promotes the co-ordination of all food standards work undertaken by international governmental and non-governmental organisations. It has been produced in conjunction with Quality Food Training (QFT) and is approved by industry regulatory bodies.    
 
'Food Hygiene – Cover the Basics' is priced at £35.00 (including VAT) per user. Access to the training programme via the CD-ROM expires after each single use. Additional licence codes to reactivate the programme are available for a further payment for each user.

For further information, to order the CD-ROM or for additional licence codes, please contact Improve on Tel: 01482 861040  Email: info@improveltd.co.uk Website: www.improveltd.co.uk