What is the Frontline Food Safety Program?

(Updated: March 12, 2026, 11:11 p.m.)

Where Food Safety Happens

Frontline employees are the foundation of safe food production. NC State University Extension has developed a comprehensive curriculum designed specifically for food processors and produce packinghouses. The program helps companies meet FDA requirements and work towards GFSI-recognized audit standards, which mandate that all individuals involved in manufacturing, processing, packing, or holding food receive food safety training.

What the Program Covers

The training is built around nine core food safety modules:

  1. Foundations of Food Safety
  2. Employee Health and Hygiene
  3. Pest Control
  4. Cross Contamination and Hygienic Zoning
  5. Cleaning and Sanitizing
  6. Allergen Control
  7. Process Controls
  8. Document Controls
  9. Food Defense and Fraud

Each module includes a knowledge check, and all materials are available in both English and Spanish.

To support ongoing learning beyond the initial training, the program also includes a set of 24 Huddle Cards — short, interactive discussion sessions of 10–15 minutes each that reinforce key concepts and are designed to satisfy annual food safety refresher training requirements.

Two Ways to Participate

Frontline Employee Training

NC State Extension can deliver a 2-4 hour training session at your facility or another designated location. The training is designed for processing personnel including operators, sanitation staff, production workers, and maintenance teams. Each participant receives a guide that aligns with the instructor's presentation, available in English or Spanish. Sessions can be conducted in English, Spanish, or both.

Train-the-Trainer (Instructor Training)

For companies that want to build in-house training capacity, NC State also offers a 2-3 hour train-the-trainer session for supervisors, managers, or designated trainers. Available in-person or virtually, this option gives attendees a deep dive into the full curriculum along with the tools and techniques for effective instruction. Participants receive a comprehensive instructor toolkit that includes an instructor guide, activity resources, and all materials needed to roll out the program internally.

Components of the Program Resource (all resources are available in English and Spanish)
Frontline Curriculum A printed guide covering the basics of food safety
Instructor Curriculum Instructor guide that includes ppt slides with supportive text, activities, and scenario-based knowledge checks 
Huddle Cards 24 cards for short, refresher discussions based on the Frontline content

Get Started

To schedule a training for your company or learn more about either option, contact:

Kate Nicholas — KateNicholas@ncsu.edu
Lynette Johnston — Lynette_Johnston@ncsu.edu

Frontline Food Safety Guides in English and Spanish - covers only in blue
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Lynette Johnston