The purpose of this paper is to report on the utility of a food hygiene management system training workshop and guidance pack to help small fast food businesses comply with new legal requirements.
A pre‐course questionnaire was used to determine knowledge and attitudes towards food safety management systems. Levels of compliance with best practice on operating hygiene management systems were assessed. A series of workshops were delivered and evaluated by means of a post‐course questionnaire.
Although some of the businesses had elementary prerequisite programmes in place prior to the workshop, there was limited understanding of the requirements of good hygiene practice and food safety management systems. There was little documentation and a low level of hygiene training. Trainees welcomed the practical guidance provided by the course and materials. Both were rated positively, with the highest satisfaction being demonstrated by those with traditional businesses that were best served by the sector specific training materials. Most of the businesses asserted that they would require additional support, if they were going to implement and document the system fully.
Small sample size.
Materials for use with small businesses need to be specifically developed for each industry sector, as businesses have little ability to produce their own documentation. Training and support materials need to be jargon free with information on good hygiene practices in addition food hygiene management materials.
Adds to the debate on the best methods to be used to assist small food businesses comply with new legislation.
