Food Safe Level 1 Certification Guide 2026: Everything You Need to Know in Surrey BC

Looking to start your career in food service? Food Safe Level 1 certification is your essential first step. Whether you’re in Surrey, Delta, Vancouver, or Abbotsford, this mandatory certification opens doors to countless opportunities in restaurants, cafes, hotels, and catering services across British Columbia.

At RupIELTS Institute, we’ve helped over 2,000 food service professionals get certified with our same-day Food Safe Level 1 training. Located conveniently at 112 – 8232 120 Street, Surrey BC, we offer the most affordable and comprehensive training in the Lower Mainland.

What is Food Safe Level 1 Certification?

Food Safe Level 1 is a mandatory food handler certification in British Columbia that teaches essential food safety practices. The course covers proper food handling, personal hygiene, cross-contamination prevention, temperature control, and cleaning procedures.

Why is it required? BC health regulations mandate that at least one person per shift in any food service establishment must hold a valid Food Safe certificate. This protects public health and ensures safe food handling across all restaurants and food businesses.

What You’ll Learn in the Food Safe Level 1 Course

Our comprehensive curriculum at RupIELTS Institute covers all topics required by BC health authorities:

Core Topics Covered:

• Foodborne Illnesses: Understanding bacterial, viral, and parasitic contamination and how to prevent them
• Personal Hygiene: Proper handwashing techniques, when to wash hands, and illness policies
• Temperature Control: Danger zone (4°C-60°C), safe cooking temperatures, and proper cooling
• Cross-Contamination: Separating raw and cooked foods, using different cutting boards, allergen safety
• Cleaning & Sanitizing: Difference between cleaning and sanitizing, proper chemical use
• Food Storage: FIFO method, proper labeling, refrigerator organization
• Receiving Food: Checking deliveries, temperature verification, rejecting unsafe products
• Pest Control: Prevention methods and identifying signs of infestation

How to Get Certified: 4 Simple Steps

Step 1: Register
Call us at 604-825-8882, visit our Surrey location, or book online at book-now.

Step 2: Complete the Training
Attend our 8 hour comprehensive training session led by certified instructors. Study materials, participate in discussions, and ask questions.

Step 3: Pass the Exam
Take the 50 question multiple-choice exam. You need 70% to pass (35 correct answers). Our training ensures you’re fully prepared!

Step 4: Receive Your Certificate
Get your temporary Food Safe Level 1 certificate immediately. Valid for 5 years. Start working right away!

Jobs That Require Food Safe Level 1 in BC

Food Safe Level 1 certification is required for numerous positions across Surrey, Vancouver, Delta, and Abbotsford:

Restaurant & Hospitality:

• Line cooks and prep cooks
• Servers and wait staff
• Dishwashers and kitchen assistants
• Bartenders and bussers
• Hotel kitchen staff and banquet servers
• Catering and event staff

Retail & Quick Service:

• Grocery store deli workers
• Bakery and butcher staff
• Fast food and food truck workers
• Baristas and cafe staff
• Institutional food service workers

Salary Expectations: Entry-level positions in Surrey typically start at $19-$20/hour. With experience and certification, workers can earn $23-$25/hour or more in supervisory roles.

Food Safe Level 1 vs Level 2: Key Differences

Feature	Level 1	Level 2
Who Needs It	Food handlers, servers, cooks	Supervisors, managers, owners
Duration	4-6 hours (1 day)	16-20 hours (2-3 days)
Exam	40 questions (70% pass)	80 questions (70% pass)
Price at RupIELTS	$69	Contact for pricing

Most entry-level positions only require Level 1. Upgrade to Level 2 when you move into management roles.

Exam Preparation Tips from RupIELTS Experts

Before the Exam:

• Study all course materials thoroughly
• Focus on temperature danger zones, handwashing, and cross-contamination
• Take practice tests provided by RupIELTS
• Understand the “why” behind rules, not just memorize them
• Get adequate rest before exam day

During the Exam:

• Read questions carefully—watch for “always,” “never,” “except”
• Use process of elimination for difficult questions
• Don’t overthink—your first instinct is usually correct
• Review all answers before submitting

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does Food Safe Level 1 take?

The course takes 8 hours to complete, including the exam. At RupIELTS, you can get same-day certification.

How much does it cost?

RupIELTS offers Food Safe Level 1 for $69, including all materials, exam, and certificate. We also offer group discounts for businesses.

Is Food Safe required in BC?

Yes, BC health regulations require at least one certified food handler per shift in all food service establishments.

How long is the certificate valid?

Food Safe Level 1 is valid for 5 years. After that, you’ll need to renew with a refresher course.

Can I take it online?

Yes! RupIELTS offers both in-person classes at our Surrey location.

What if I fail the exam?

RupIELTS offers retakes of course. We support you until you pass!

Do I need Level 2?

Only if you’re moving into supervisory or management positions. Start with Level 1 for entry-level jobs.

Why Choose RupIELTS Institute for Food Safe Training?

Since 2018, RupIELTS has been Surrey’s trusted training provider. Here’s what makes us different:

• ✅ Lowest Price: $69
• ✅ Same-Day Certification: Complete and get certified in one day
• ✅ 98% Pass Rate: Proven teaching methods
• ✅ Flexible Options: In-person weekdays or weekends
• ✅ Expert Instructors: Certified professionals with years of experience
• ✅ Free Retakes: We guarantee your success
• ✅ Convenient Location: Easy access from Surrey, Delta, Vancouver, Abbotsford
• ✅ Group Discounts: Special rates for restaurants and teams

Get Certified Today!

Don’t wait to start your food service career. Join thousands of successful professionals who got certified with RupIELTS Institute.

Serving Surrey, Delta, Vancouver, Abbotsford, and all of British Columbia.

RupIELTS Institute also offers IELTS, CELPIP, PTE Core, First Aid, BST/AST Security Training, WHMIS, Serve It Right, and more professional certifications. Your one-stop training center for career advancement!