California law requires all operators of thermal processing equipment (e.g., retorts and aseptic processing systems) to be permitted. Operators will receive a Retort Operator Permit after successfully passing a written and practical examination administered by FDB personnel.
Each canner must provide FDB with a list of candidates for the examination.
The examination is conducted by appointment and will not be scheduled until the canner has obtained a valid Cannery License, Official Scheduled Process (S-letters) have been issued, and the thermal processing equipment is fully operational.
The Retort Operator Permit is issued to the individual operator and is valid for the specific equipment that the operator was tested on. Retort Operator Permits are not transferrable.
Food and Drug Branch
1-800-495-3232
FDBfood@cdph.ca.gov