What exactly is food handling certification?

It's very substantial to have for a resume if you're serious about getting a foodservice job. I'm in CA and everyone who works in foodservice has to have their Food Handlers Certificate. And it's a LOT easier than the ServSafe test.

It's not just 'Wash your hands, don't pick your nose", but there's a lot in there about time, temps, safe holding practices, foodborne illnesses and causes, how to prevent them, how to receive goods, etc.

Absolutely get your certificate. You can even take it online in less than two hours of lecture and test. Be sure to take notes, it's an open-note exam.

Think of it this way. As an employer, would you rather hire someone who already has theirs, or someone without one and then have to nag them to get it within 30 days of hiring? You'd hire the person who has more education.

If you want to work in Food Service, then your potential employer would want to know that you are aware of safe and sanitary food handling practices, which you learn when you take the course that gives you the Food Handling Certificate.

everything looks good on a resume. i like my food handled correctly.