Publication:

Knowledge and practices of food hygiene among food handlers in plantation sector, Sri Lanka

Background Diseases related with consumption of contaminated foods are a common problem in worldwide. Food handlers play a major role in ensuring food safety and hygiene. Information about food hygiene in plantation sector of Sri Lanka is insufficient. This study was designed to assess the knowledge and practice of food hygiene among food handlers in tea plantation sector of Kandy, Sri Lanka.

Methods A community based cross sectional study was conducted among food handlers in tea plantations in three tea plantations from July to September 2013. Information regarding food handling practices, knowledge and attitude of food hygiene and safety and medical treatments was obtained from food handlers using a structured questionnaire. The data was analyzed using SPSS version 20 statistical software.

Results 375 food handlers from 18 to 63 years (mean 33.4 ± 7.2) were enrolled of which 88% of them were females. Out of total participants, 59.6% of the respondent had good knowledge of food practice and hygiene. Gender (p = 0.044), education level of food handlers (p = 0.019), and good medical practices (p < 0.05) were statistically significant with practice of food safety and hygiene.

Conclusions Community - health education programs, promoting food hygiene and safety training should be implemented to improve the level of knowledge and practice of food hygiene.