FOOD HANDLERS' PERMIT VALIDITY EXTENDED TO TWO YEARS Food handlers’ permits will have a two-year validity period, effective January 1, 2026. This forms part of the Environmental Health Unit’s overhaul of the National Food Handlers’ Training and Certification Programme. Addressing Wednesday’s (June 11) post-Cabinet press briefing at Jamaica House, Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr. the Hon. Christopher Tufton, shared that more than 300,000 Jamaicans apply for and renew permits annually.