Who needs a certified food protection manager in Mississippi?

Issued by Mississippi State Department of Health (Mississippi Food Code), at step 4 of 6 in the opening sequence: get the permits for your kind of business.

9 of the 20 kinds of business in Mississippi

The permit application asks for a copy of the food manager’s certificate from an accredited program (ServSafe and the other ANAB-accredited exams), so hire or certify the manager before applying. Keep at least one certified manager for the facility and be ready to show food safety knowledge at every inspection.

Checked Oct 21, 2026 against the agency’s page.

Step 4 of 6: Get the permits for your kind of business

  1. Set up the business
  2. Register for tax
  3. Approve the space
  4. Get the permits for your kind of business
  5. Alcohol permits
  6. Before the first hire

Issued by Mississippi State Department of Health (Mississippi Food Code).

Sources and dates

State Department of Health food permit application requirements; Mississippi Food Code (FDA Food Code as adopted). Checked against the agency’s page on the date shown; cities add their own fees.

Questions about opening here.