Purpose: The purpose of the study was to implement and evaluate the impact of minimal-text posters in different foodservice operations serving older Americans.
Methods: Hourly employees’ food handling practices were observed and then employees were interviewed at 8 facilities (2 long term care, 2 hospitals, 2 assisted living, 2 restaurants). Compliance with safe food handling behaviors was evaluated using the Food Code. Based on findings from initial observations, minimal-text posters were developed and distributed. After intervention, observations and interviews were again conducted one month and three months later to assess short and longer-term compliance. Observational data were analyzed using SPSS 21.0 and interview data using Atlas.ti 7.0.73.
Results: Forty-five of 127 (35.4%) observed food handling behaviors (e.g., gloves changed as needed, refrigeration temperatures checked daily) improved after the food safety posters were displayed in facilities as evidenced by increased rates of compliance at either one month or three months post-intervention. During interviews, employees identified factors motivating their safe food handling behaviors including: knowledge acquired through on the job and food safety specific training, desire to keep food safe for customers, and management’s emphasis on ensuring safe food handling practices.
Significance: Safe produce handling posters were helpful in changing observed food handling behaviors, thus mitigating risks of foodborne illness for a vulnerable population. Despite various language and literacy challenges presented by foodservice employees, visual, minimal-text messaging can be useful with a diverse workforce.