Purpose: This study evaluated the effectiveness of the campaign center-piece video delivering food safety information. Safe food handling knowledge and reported behavior were assessed in people with diabetes and pregnant women.
Methods: A total of 161 participants (79% female, 45% between 18 to 24 years of age) completed the study. One hundred eleven participants were recruited from Virginia and 50 from West Virginia. Pre- and post-surveys recorded demographic information and evaluated perceived risk, food safety knowledge, and food hygiene practices before and after the campaign.
Results: Participants reported a significant increase of perceived behavior control and knowledge towards food thermometer use on both large and small cut meat preparation (p<0.05). After the campaign, participants’ correct response rate of not washing raw meat under running water increased from 17% to 74%, maximum time food should be out of the refrigerator increased from 70% to 94%, and recommended temperature range for refrigerators increased from 56% to 86%. The top three practices that participants reported learning were, hand washing, do not wash raw meat under running water, and food thermometer use. Many reported that after viewing the video they started to use food thermometers and monitor refrigerator temperatures.
Significance: "The Story of Your Dinner" campaign increased consumers’ food safety knowledge and self-reported safe handling behavior. Observation behavior measurements with participants and follow-up interviews with educators are recommended for future campaigns.