Evaluation of microbial contamination and food safety knowledge among institutional food handlers

This study used a combined microbiological and behavioral approach to evaluate food safety in a higher education institution canteen in Nueva Ecija, Philippines. Microbiological tests were conducted on food samples and contact surfaces to detect Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Bacillus cereus following ISO standards. In addition, 65 food handlers completed a validated survey to assess their food safety knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP), as well as their awareness of foodborne pathogens. The results showed that microbial counts in all tested samples were within acceptable limits, although occasional detections indicated possible weaknesses in cold chain management and sanitation practices. Significant positive correlations were found between food safety KAP and pathogen awareness (r = 0.416–0.446, p < 0.001). Both KAP and pathogen awareness were significantly negatively associated with microbial presence (r = –0.246 to –0.342, p < 0.05). These findings indicate that higher levels of food safety knowledge and pathogen awareness are associated with lower microbial contamination. The study highlights the practical importance of combining microbiological monitoring with targeted training programs to strengthen institutional food safety systems and reduce contamination risks.