Exploring The Landscape of Food Safety Knowledge and Practice among Malaysian Secondary School Students

Introduction: Food safety remains a critical public health concern, particularly among school children, as evidenced by escalating instances of foodborne illnesses globally. Despite various efforts, there is a need to assess and enhance knowledge about food safety practices among secondary school students. This study aims to assess the food safety knowledge of secondary school students in the East Coast of Malaysia. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at a secondary school in Kelantan, East Coast, Malaysia. Data were collected through a self-administered questionnaire involving 82 students aged 13 to 17 years. The questionnaire covered socio-demographic information, food safety knowledge, and hygiene practices. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS, employing descriptive statistics. Results: The study revealed varying levels of food safety knowledge among students. While many demonstrated awareness of certain practices, gaps existed, particularly in recognizing symptoms of food poisoning. Fast food restaurants were identified as the most common locations for students. The majority recognized preventive measures but exhibited misconceptions in certain areas, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive education. The findings highlight the critical role of students as both consumers and potential future food handlers. The study aligns with global concerns regarding foodborne illnesses, highlighting the imperative for systematic and targeted food safety education for this age group and stressing the significance of promptly recognizing and addressing symptoms of food poisoning. Conclusion: The results provide valuable insights for public health practitioners, educators, and policymakers to develop effective strategies for preventing foodborne illnesses in schools and promoting a culture of food safety.