Always Food Safe vs. ServSafe
Which Online Food Manager Course Is Right for You?
If you’re a foodservice professional, manager, or owner looking to meet regulatory compliance and enhance food safety practices, choosing the right certification program matters. Two of the most recognized options on the market are Always Food Safe and ServSafe. Both offer ANAB-accredited Food Protection Manager Certification exams with remote proctoring, but there are key differences that make Always Food Safe the clear leader in convenience, value, and user experience.
1. Video-Based Learning that’s Actually Engaging
Always Food Safe uses professionally produced video-based training with closed captions and visual cues, specifically designed for visual and auditory learners. The content is easy to follow and broken into manageable chapters — perfect for new managers or those studying on the go. In contrast, ServSafe uses dense text-heavy modules that can feel overwhelming and outdated.
2. Start Today — No Scheduling Delays
With Always Food Safe, you can take your exam 24/7 without scheduling ahead of time. Once you’re ready, simply launch the remote proctor session and begin. ServSafe, on the other hand, requires scheduling your exam with ProctorU, which can involve wait times, availability limitations, and extra steps that delay certification.
3. Superior Customer Support
Always Food Safe has built its reputation on personalized, friendly support. Their team offers rapid response times and walks customers through every step of the certification process. ServSafe support is routed through a large corporate structure that may leave you waiting or without resolution.
4. Two Exam Attempts Included
Every Always Food Safe Food Manager Course comes with two exam attempts included at no additional cost. This safety net helps reduce test anxiety and gives learners confidence. ServSafe charges an additional fee of $99.00 for retakes, adding unexpected costs.
5. Nationally Accredited and Recognized
Both Always Food Safe and ServSafe are ANAB-accredited and meet regulatory requirements in all 50 states. However, Always Food Safe’s content and testing flexibility make it better suited for the modern, mobile workforce.
6. Mobile-Friendly, Easy Access
Whether you’re on a laptop, tablet, or smartphone, the Always Food Safe course adjusts perfectly to your screen. ServSafe’s platform is less mobile-optimized, making it difficult to navigate on smaller screens.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Always Food Safe | ServSafe |
|---|---|---|
| Exam Access | Instant, 24/7 exam access | Scheduled via ProctorU |
| Retake Fee | Included (2 attempts) | Extra cost for retake ($99.00) |
| Support | Live, friendly, fast | Corporate, delayed |
| Mobile-Friendly Lessons | Fully optimized | Limited compatibility |
| Price Transparency | Clear, all-inclusive | Hidden fees possible |
Choose Always Food Safe — A Smarter Path to Certification
When it comes to value, flexibility, and user experience, Always Food Safe is the top choice for food managers across the country. Whether you’re renewing your certification or getting certified for the first time, you’ll appreciate the convenience of 24/7 access, free retakes, engaging video content, and industry-leading support.
