Education and Training to Prevent Problems in Food Protection: Experience in the Nation's Capital

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Food Safety Science

Background:

• Food sanitation in foodservice establishments relies heavily on foodservice worker knowledge, attitude, and behavior.
• Regulatory agencies are focusing on training and certification for these workers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline a fundamental strategy for an education and training program for foodservice workers.
• To address the growing recognition of the importance of foodservice worker practices in public health.

Main Methods:

• The article describes the foundational elements of a comprehensive education and training program.
• Focuses on a strategic approach to curriculum development and implementation.

Main Results:

• The strategy emphasizes the critical role of the foodservice worker in maintaining food sanitation standards.
• Aims to enhance the knowledge, attitude, and behavior of individuals handling food.

Conclusions:

• Effective training programs are essential for improving food safety practices in foodservice.
• The outlined strategy provides a model for regulatory agencies and establishments to enhance worker competency.