Impact of an Educational Sign on Consumer Use of Plastic Bags for Raw Poultry

Introduction: Thousands of cases of foodborne illnesses caused by Salmonella and Campylobacter from poultry products are reported each year. The consumer is the last defense against cross-contamination and possible spread of these bacteria. An earlier study reported that the use of plastic bags often provided in poultry sections eliminates cross-contamination during transport and storage of raw chicken.

Purpose: This project examined shoppers’ use of plastic bags when purchasing raw poultry and the influence of educational signage.

Methods: Customers (100) were observed while purchasing raw poultry in two grocery stores.  Following initial observation, a sign “For your safety and convenience bag your meat” with a picture was posted to inform shoppers to use bags provided.  Shoppers were observed again after the sign was displayed.   Another 100 shoppers who purchased raw poultry were surveyed concerning their use of bags and impact of the sign.

Results: Fewer than 10% of shoppers were observed placing raw poultry in bags provided before the sign was posted. After the sign was posted, none of the observed shoppers used bags for raw poultry.  About half of those surveyed reported they used bags for raw poultry in the past, but only 9 used bags on the day surveyed. Reasons for not using the bags included: not noticing them, not thinking they were necessary, and thinking it was too much trouble. Forty-one shoppers noticed the sign displayed in the poultry section; 22% of those reported it had an impact on their decision to use the bag. However, most could not remember the displayed message (66%).

Significance:  Further research is needed to assess the effectiveness of messages posted in grocery stores. This study demonstrated that consumers are increasing their risk of foodborne illness by not using the bags provided in grocery stores for their raw poultry.