A longitudinal quantitative study of the effects of training on food handlers’ hygiene knowledge and practices in the National School Nutrition Programme, Western Cape, South Africa

Abstract

Background The National School Nutrition Programme (NSNP) provides food to approximately 9.7 million learners across South Africa. Children are more vulnerable to foodborne disease, especially if food is prepared unhygienically. Although foodborne disease outbreaks occur in South African schools, few studies have examined the knowledge and practices of food handlers in the NSNP. Aim The aim of the study was to determine whether food hygiene knowledge training intervention at schools offering the NSNP will improve food handlers’ knowledge and practices regarding food hygiene and safety. Setting The study was conducted at 10 schools within a Cape Winelands sub-district municipality offering the NSNP. Methods A quantitative longitudinal design was employed, utilising a pre-test–post-test intervention study. Data were collected using structured questionnaires to assess knowledge, and an observation checklist was used to assess the practices of the food handlers before and after training. Results Pre-training findings showed that most food handlers have a high baseline food hygiene knowledge, yet observations found poor compliance with required practices. After the training intervention, no statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) were found between pre- and post-training questionnaire results. However, post-training observations found clear improvement in hygiene practices. Conclusion Despite improvement, the study revealed that a lack of resources is the main challenge in implementing safe food handling practices in the NSNP. Contribution This study underscores the need to strengthen compliance and routine inspections and prioritise food safety within the NSNP. Future studies should explore behavioural and attitude factors that influence these food handlers.