Enhancing Food Safety: An Analysis of Food Handlers' Knowledge and Behavior in Uncertified School Catering Services

Abstract

Background: Foodborne illnesses are a significant global health risk, especially in schools with uncertified catering. Food handlers are crucial for food safety, however inadequate knowledge and hygiene can lead to contamination by pathogens like Staphylococcus aureus. This study investigates the relationship between food handlers' knowledge, behavior, and S. aureus contamination in uncertified school catering.

Method: A cross-sectional study involved 88 food handlers from six private schools in Semarang City, selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected via questionnaires and swab tests for S. aureus detection. Bivariate analysis using the Chi-Square test assessed relationships between knowledge, behavior, and contamination rates.

Results: Food handlers with good knowledge had an S. aureus contamination rate of 8.6%, compared to 37.7% for those with less knowledge (p = 0.005). Those practicing good hygiene had an 11.8% contamination rate, significantly lower than the 11.8% rate among poorly behaved handlers (p = 0.0029).

Conclusion: Increased knowledge and better hygiene practices are associated with lower S. aureus contamination in food handlers at uncertified school caterers. Enhanced food safety training is essential to improve hygiene and protect students from foodborne illnesses.

Keywords: Behaviour; Food handlers; Staphylococcus Aureus