KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICE OF FOOD HANDLERS TOWARDS FOOD SAFETY

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Department of Industrial Medicine and Occupational Health, Faculty of Medicine , Mansoura University.

2 Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine , Mansoura University.

Abstract

Introduction: Food handlers play an important role in ensuring food safety throughout
the chain of production, processing, storage and preparation of food. Good knowledge,
positive attitude and good practice of food handlers are important for prevention of
food borne diseases. Aim of work: To assess knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP)
of food handlers towards food safety at Mansoura University Hospitals and find out
personal and work-related factors associated with different KAP levels. Materials
and Methods: A descriptive observational cross-sectional study was conducted from
December 2016 to September 2017. It included all food handlers working at Mansoura
University hospitals᾿ kitchens who were on duty and fulfilling legibility criteria. The
data were collected using a questionnaire about demographic data, occupational history,
food safety knowledge and attitude. Observational checklist was used to assess the
workers practice. Results: Only one quarter of food handlers had good knowledge
towards food safety and hygiene, on contrary, most of them had a good attitude level
(61.0%) and a good hygienic practice level (59.0%). High KAP scores were noted
among females and university certified workers. The highest KAP scores were noted
among veterinarians and cooks. There is a significant strong positive correlation
between knowledge and attitude (r = 0.78), and moderate positive correlation between
knowledge and practice (r = 0.46). Conclusion: Limited number of food handlers had
enough knowledge regarding food safety. Practice had a positive correlation with both
knowledge and attitude. KAP scores of food handlers differ significantly regarding
gender, educational level and type of work. It should be mandatory for food handlers
to undergo a supervised food safety training courses prior to renewal of their license to
ensure their efficacy.
 

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