Determination of the extent of food handling and storage information provided on food package labels. To communicate the results to consumers by providing health and food professionals with research data and resource information. There is a lack of Canadian data on consumer use of the food safety information on food labels. The need to study food safety information on labels arises from the significant number of foodborne illness cases which still occur. Reasons for the mishandling of food at home include inadequate knowledge of safe handling practices.
Consumers have a lack of access to reliable food safety information.
Other reasons related to mishandling food at home are consumer perceptions of food safety risks and new food products and technologies used in food production and processing. The inclusion of food safety information on labels would be helpful to educate consumers about new food products and safe handling practices. It is recommended that focus groups be conducted with consumers who are primarily responsible for the grocery shopping and food preparation in their homes. The discussion would involve awareness issues regarding food safety and label reading. Food Packages Recommendations General perceptions of food safety practices Restaurants and Supermarkets - Develop a short checklist for consumers and patrons that clearly outlines what food safety practices they should expect from supermarkets and restaurants.