Sushi looks like an easy dish to make, but each rolled form or sliced sashimi is combined with precision, skill, and food safety standards. So, should sushi chefs be licensed to prepare sushi? The following conditions apply: location, variety of restaurant, whether there is raw fish handling, and others. 

What Licensing, Training, and Qualifications Does Your Favorite Sushi Must Have?

1. There is No Universal “Sushi Chef License”

Contrary to popular belief, there is no official global or national license strictly for making sushi. Becoming a sushi chef (or itamae) doesn’t require a specific sushi-only license in most countries, including the United States.

However, this doesn’t mean that anyone can legally prepare sushi without oversight. While no specific “sushi certificate” is mandated by law, other licenses and training are required to ensure food safety and hygiene.

2. The Food Handler’s Card or Food Safety Certification

Chefs must hold a valid food handler’s card or food safety certification in most U.S. states and those with food regulations. These courses include:

• Safe handling and storage of raw fish.
• Hygiene and sanitation
• Cross-contamination prevention
• Control of temperatures between raw and cooked ingredients.

Most sushi chefs working in restaurants need to have this certification because of local health department regulations.

3. Raw Fish = Stricter Standards

Most sushi involves raw fish; because of this, extra precautions must be taken at all times. There are various requirements across jurisdictions for raw fish to be served: 

• Frozen at certain temperatures for the elimination of parasites
• Bought from approved suppliers
• Received under strict time-temperature parameters 

Some other regions would additionally require a certification for those processing or serving raw seafood, like HACCP training for sushi bars or seafood handlers.

4. Formal Training and Apprenticeship

Most successful sushi chefs have undergone years of intensive hands-on training or apprenticeship, even though it is not a necessity by law. An average Japanese person would spend years mastering the rudimentary art of sushi cooking. Most chefs in Western nations attend culinary schools or team up with experienced professionals. 

This kind of experience assures quality, creativity, and safety, making it much more likely that your sushi is not only tasty but properly prepared.

Sushi Inc. is a vibrant restaurant that offers what is considered the best sushi in St Pete. Opening its doors in 2013 and becoming a local staple by offering live music, traditional hand-rolled sushi, and a friendly atmosphere, our guests always have a top-notch experience. Customers love our award-winning, fresh, and creative Sushi rolls, Nigiri, and Sashimi. With a larger selection of tempura, non-Sushi, and teriyaki options, we can accommodate every taste. Click here to make your reservation now!