Food safety knowledge, attitude and hygiene practices of fast-food restaurants in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia

Despite achievements in knowledge and technology in the last few years, foodborne diseases are still a worldwide concern.With the increasing rate of food eaten away from home, food safety knowledge and practices play a substantial role in preventing foodborne diseases and protecting the health of consumers.In its latest report on the foodborne illness problem, the World Health Organization (WHO) recorded that 420,000 deaths and 600 million cases occur each year because of foodborne illness.This study aims to evaluate the food safety knowledge, attitudes, and hygiene habits of fast-food restaurant workers in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.A cross-sectional survey was carried out among several food handlers from various fast-food establishments.Data were collected through a structured questionnaire assessing their knowledge, attitudes, and self-reported habits regarding food safety and hygiene.The results revealed that while the majority of participants had adequate knowledge of the principles of food safety, there were gaps in their attitudes and reported practices.Significant correlations were found between knowledge levels, educational attainment, and years of experience.The study highlights the need for continuous training and reinforcement of food safety protocols in the fast-food industry to ensure consumer protection and prevent foodborne illnesses.