<![CDATA[The Women Farmers' Group (KWT) plays an important role in local food processing. In contrast, the safe use of food additives requires adequate knowledge of permitted types, functions, dosage limits, and safety. This community engagement activity aimed to strengthen the capacity of 29 members of KWT Bengke Sakato in Korong Bengke, Nagari Ambuang Kapua Sungai Sariak, VII Koto Sungai Sariak District, Padang Pariaman Regency, to safely select and use food additives. A participatory approach was implemented from September to November 2024 through needs identification, education, demonstrations, hands-on practice, mentoring, and evaluation. Food-additive literacy was integrated with the practical formulation of three locally relevant products: chili sauce, fish nuggets, and fruit-based ice cream. Knowledge was evaluated using pretest and posttest scores, while practical ability was documented through direct observation during training. The mean knowledge score increased from 52.3% before the intervention to 84.7% afterward, a 32.4 percentage-point increase. During practice, participants were observed selecting appropriate additives, considering dosage limits, and applying food-safety principles to the products. These results indicate an increase in knowledge scores and observed practical ability during the intervention. Because individual paired data, complete instrument-validation documentation, laboratory product testing, and post-activity monitoring were unavailable, the findings should not be interpreted as statistical evidence of long-term behavior change, improved shelf life, or economic sustainability. Continued mentoring is recommended to support consistent safe practices, regulatory compliance, and production standards.]]>
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