Purpose: The purpose of this study was to identify and prioritize core competencies relevant to post-secondary food safety education using a modified Delphi method.
Methods: Twenty-nine experts representing food safety professionals in academia, government and industry were given two rounds of questionnaires that included food safety competencies, core domains, and subdomains. Competencies are a set of skills, knowledge and abilities that correlate to success of a trainee. The framework for which competencies were classified consisted of (1) core domains, defined as broad food safety subjects; and (2) subdomains, or more specific topics. The expert panel used a 5-point Likert scale with a consensus criterion of 75%, with a rating of “4” or greater. After each round, revisions were made to the original document after considering the responses. The objective of the first-round survey was to identify and define core domains and subdomains. The objective of the second round was to refine the specific competencies and identify neglected competencies.
Results: Twenty-one (72%) surveys were completed in the first round. Five core domains were accepted by all panel members: (1) Food Production, Manufacturing and Retail; (2) Foodborne Hazards; (3) Legislation and Policy; (4) Epidemiology; and (5) Communication and Education. Most original subdomains were also accepted by the panel. Twenty (69%) surveys were completed in the second round, after which 100% consensus was reached regarding specific competencies. Feedback from the experts highlighted areas in which further curriculum revision would be beneficial.
Significance: This study provides a framework for the development of a standardized undergraduate food safety curriculum. The Delphi method, with its inclusion of professionals representing all sectors of food safety, provided relevant perspectives for curriculum design and provided participants an opportunity to participate in the education of future food safety professionals.