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3 Signs of Cross-Contamination: The Pro’s Guide to Texas Food Handlers Requirements

Feb 20, 2026 | Texas Food Handler

Securing your official Texas Food Handlers certification is the most important step for anyone looking to start a career in the Texas hospitality industry. Whether you are a line cook in Austin or a server in Houston, the law requires all Texas Food Handlers to be trained in basic food safety to protect the public from foodborne illness. At ACE Food Handler, we have been an officially approved provider by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS License #81) for over 10 years. We’ve designed our course to be the fastest way for Texas Food Handlers to get certified and get back to work.

One of the core lessons for all Texas Food Handlers is preventing cross-contamination. Here are the three biggest red flags every pro needs to know:

1. The “Juice Drip” in Cold Storage

One of the most dangerous forms of cross-contamination happens inside the refrigerator. If raw chicken is stored on a shelf above fresh produce or ready-to-eat salsas, the raw juices can drip down. Even a single drop contains enough salmonella to cause foodborne illness.

  • The Pro Fix: Always follow the “Storage Hierarchy.” Raw poultry must always be on the bottom shelf, below beef, pork, and ready-to-eat foods.

 

 

ACE Food Handler is an officially licensed provider (DSHS #81). Our certificates are accepted for all Texas Food Handlers statewide.2. The “Single Cutting Board” Trap

In a busy kitchen, it’s tempting to slice a tomato on the same board where you just trimmed raw steak. Even if you “wipe it down” with a damp cloth, the bacteria remain in the grooves of the board.

  • The Pro Fix: Use color-coded cutting boards (Red for raw meat, Green for produce). If you don’t have color-coded boards, you must wash, rinse, and sanitize the board and knife between every single task.

3. The “Cell Phone” Contaminant

In 2026, the biggest hidden threat in Texas kitchens is the smartphone. Studies show that cell phones carry more bacteria than a toilet seat. If a server or cook touches their phone and then touches a plate or garnish without washing their hands, they have just cross-contaminated the meal.

  • The Pro Fix: Hands must be washed for at least 20 seconds after touching anything that isn’t sanitized—including your phone, your face, or your apron.


Get Your Texas Food Handlers Card for Only $5.60!

At ACE Food Handler, we make the process for Texas Food Handlers simple and affordable. While other providers charge $10 or $15, our official Texas DSHS-approved course is only **$7.00**.

To help you save even more, use coupon code ace20 at checkout to save an additional 20%. This brings your total to just $5.60.

Why Choose ACE Food Handler?

  • 10+ Years Approved: Texas DSHS License #81.

  • Instant Certificate: Download and print your card immediately after passing.

  • Mobile Ready: Take the course on your phone at the restaurant or at home.

  • State-Wide Acceptance: Recognized by health inspectors in every county in Texas.

[GET YOUR TEXAS FOOD HANDLERS CARD FOR $5.60] (Link to Product 389903)


Texas Food Handlers FAQ

How long is a Texas Food Handlers card valid? In Texas, your food handlers certificate is valid for 2 years from the date of completion.

When do I need to get my card? Texas law requires all food employees to complete an accredited course within 30 days of their hire date.

Is ACE Food Handler DSHS approved? Yes. ACE Food Handler is an officially licensed provider (DSHS #81). Our certificates are accepted for all Texas Food Handlers statewide.

How to Get Certified Online

Ohio Person in Charge Training you can purchase a course for only $10
Texas Food Handler Training you can purchase a course for only $7
Illinois Food Handler Training you can purchase a course here only $7
Georgia Food Handlers Training you can purchase the course here for only $7
Hawaii Food Handlers Training you can purchase the course here for only $10
New Mexico Food Handlers Training you can purchase the course here for only $7
Arizona Food Handlers Training you can purchase the course here for only $7

Food Handling Card - Courses

More detailed information about food safety can be found at FoodSafety.Gov and at the FDA US Food and Drug Administration website and ACE Training Platforms and ACE Continuing Education Credits. Tips and Tricks to ACE Your Next Health Inspection?  The Proper Cooking Temperature for Chicken in a Restaurant

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The Proper Cooking Temperature for Chicken in a Restaurant Environment

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