Community Medicine, Alluri Sita Rama Raju Academy of Medical Sciences, Eluru, Andhra Pradesh
*Corresponding author: Padma K, Asst. Prof., Dept. of Community Medicine, Asrams, Eluru, A.P, Cell No.9393014307. E-Mail: Karampadma@Gmail.Com
Online published on 27 May, 2015.
Poor knowledge of hygiene and practices in food service establishments can contribute to outbreaks of food borne illnesses.
Objective of the present study was to explore the sanitary condition of food establishments and to assess hygienic practices among food handlers in one of the rural teaching hospital at coastal district of Andhra Pradesh.
A cross-sectional study was conducted among 230 food handlers of both sexes in rural teaching hospital at coastal district of Andhra Pradesh in May 2013 and data were collected using semi structured questionnaire.
The median age of the food handlers was 42.86 years of the 230 food handlers who responded. None of the participants (100%) had taken basic food safety training. Most of all, knowledge gap in food hygiene and handling practice was observed. There is an immediate need for education and increasing awareness among food handlers regarding safe food handling practices.
This study revealed good sanitary conditions and poor food hygiene practices of handlers. Educational programs targeted at improving the attitude of food handlers and regular inspections have been recommended.
Food Handlers, Food Safety, Hygiene, Practices
