Food safety - The first step to becoming a chef

The importance of food safety

In any professional kitchen, food safety, hygiene, and personal care aren’t just checkboxes -they’re the backbone of every great chef’s career. If you’re dreaming of a future in hospitality or the culinary arts, mastering food safety is the very first skill you need to learn - even before you set foot in the kitchen.

At Culinary Solutions Academy, our online Food Safety courses are designed to give you the confidence and knowledge to start your journey the right way. You’ll learn the essential principles every chef must know - and earn a certificate to include in your resume, portfolio, or culinary school application.

By showing you already understand the importance of food safety, you’ll stand out from other applicants and show future employers you’re serious about your career.

Here’s some of the key knowledge you’ll learn:

Refrigeration temperature: Keep cold food between 0°C and 5°C
Hot food storage: Maintain above 60°C
The food danger zone: Between 5°C and 60°C, where bacteria grow fastest
Hand washing: Wash for at least 20 seconds to stay safe
Bacteria growth: Can double every 20 minutes in the danger zone
Sanitising: Kill bacteria on surfaces, knives, and chopping boards
Date labels: Track freshness and reduce waste
FIFO (First In, First Out): Rotate stock properly
Glass safety: Keep kitchens as glass-free as possible
Cross-contamination: Prevent bacteria transferring from raw to cooked foods

Understanding and applying these fundamentals doesn’t just prepare you for a professional kitchen - it demonstrates that you’re motivated, proactive, and dedicated to your craft.

Every great chef starts with great habits. Start learning today and take your first step toward a safe, successful, and exciting culinary career.