<![CDATA[Snacks sold in school canteens can transmit foodborne illness among primary-school students when food handlers do not apply adequate personal hygiene. This study analyzed the association between food handlers' Personal Hygiene and students' snacking behavior at SDN 101741, Deli Serdang Regency, in 2026. A quantitative analytical observational design with a cross-sectional approach was applied to 64 students in grades IV–VI, selected through simple random sampling from a population of 174 students using the Slovin formula. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and a direct observation sheet, then analyzed using univariate distribution and the Pearson Chi-Square test at a 95% confidence level. The results showed that 75.0% of students perceived food handlers' Personal Hygiene as poor and 45.3% displayed poor snacking behavior. Chi-Square analysis revealed a significant association between food handlers' Personal Hygiene and students' snacking behavior (p = 0.000). The study concludes that food handlers' Personal Hygiene is significantly associated with students' snacking behavior. Continuous coaching for food handlers, provision of handwashing facilities, and student education on food safety are recommended to improve snacking practices in the school canteen.]]>
Copyrights © 2026
