The influence of training on food handlers’ hygiene knowledge and practices in the National School Nutrition Programme of a Cape Winelands sub-district municipality, Western Cape, South Africa

Langley, Hayley Kimberlynn

The influence of training on food handlers’ hygiene knowledge and practices in the National School Nutrition Programme of a Cape Winelands sub-district municipality, Western Cape, South Africa

Author(s)

Langley, Hayley Kimberlynn

Date Issued

2026

Type

master thesis

Publisher

Cape Peninsula University of Technology

Abstract

In South Africa, the National School Nutrition Programme (NSNP) provides meals to approximately 9.7 million learners. Children are more vulnerable to environmental risks than adults, making them particularly susceptible to foodborne diseases, especially when food is not prepared under hygienic conditions. Literature indicates that South African schools have experienced various foodborne disease outbreaks over the years. However, limited research has been conducted on the hygiene knowledge and practices of food handlers responsible for preparing meals in the NSNP. The aim of the study is to determine whether food hygiene training interventions at schools offering the NSNP will improve food handlers’ knowledge and practices regarding food hygiene and safety. The objectives of the study were to: (a) determine the hygiene knowledge and practices of food handlers involved in the NSNP at a selected subdistrict of the Cape Winelands District Municipality (CWDM) before receiving training, (b) provide food hygiene- and safety training to food handlers involved in the NSNP at a selected sub-district of the CWDM after the first round of questionnaires and observations, and (c) determine whether hygiene knowledge and practices of food handlers regarding food hygiene and safety in the NSNP at a selected sub-district of the CWDM improved after having received training. One sub-district within the CWDM was purposively selected for this research study due to logistical feasibility. The target population comprised all volunteer food handlers working at the purposively selected schools who were responsible for preparing and serving meals to learners in the sub-district. A total of 10 schools were included in the study. A longitudinal pretest post-test intervention study design was employed to assess the food hygiene knowledge and practices of the food handlers before and after receiving training. Data collection instruments included a structured questionnaire designed to capture quantitative data, and an observation checklist aimed at collecting qualitative data. The training material was developed based on the World Health Organization’s “Five Keys to Safer Food” (WHO, 2006) and the requirements outlined in Regulation 638 of 2018 (South Africa. Department of Health, 2018). Pre-training results indicated that the majority of the food handlers had a high baseline knowledge of food hygiene requirements. However, during pre-training observations the food handlers did not practice what is required from them to ensure food safety. Due to the food handlers’ high baseline knowledge, no statistical significance difference was found when pre- and post-training questionnaire results was compared. Post-training observations revealed significant improvements, highlighting the positive impact of training on both the knowledge and practices of the food handlers. Eight schools lacked resources such as soap, paper towels, and proper storage, making it difficult for food handlers to apply the knowledge they have or gained. The study highlights the need to strengthen compliance and food handlers’ hygiene knowledge, with greater prioritisation of food safety by the Department of Basic Education (DoBE) through collaboration with Municipal Health Services (MHS). Routine inspections, continuous training and practical guidance on applying the best available methods in resource-limited settings are essential. Future studies should also explore behavioural and attitude changes among food handlers to ensure the long-term sustainability of food safety within the NSNP.

Additional information

Thesis (Master of Environmental Health)--Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2026

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