What is the primary purpose of food handler certification?

The primary purpose of food handler certification is to ensure that food handlers understand food safety practices. This certification is essential as it equips individuals with the knowledge necessary to prepare, handle, and serve food safely, thereby minimizing the risk of foodborne illnesses. Food handlers are taught about various aspects of food safety, such as proper cooking temperatures, safe food storage, cross-contamination prevention, and personal hygiene.

Certification helps to create a standard of safety and hygiene in food establishments, fostering a safe dining environment for consumers. Understanding these practices is crucial, as they directly impact public health and safety. When food handlers are professionally trained, they are more likely to implement the necessary precautions that keep food safe from contamination.

The other options do not align with the primary intent of food handler certification; increasing food prices is unrelated to food safety, promoting local food products focuses on marketing rather than safety, and providing culinary skills training does not specifically cover the safety practices that are crucial for preventing foodborne illnesses. Thus, the emphasis is firmly placed on food safety education through certification.