Content area
Abstract
Temporary foodservice establishments such as farmers' markets are increasing in popularity. However, rules governing the vendors at establishments tend to be inconsistent compared with rules that apply to permanent establishments. For example, some vendors are exempt from formal health department supervision, while others may sell food prepared in uninspected home facilities. This preliminary study employed a novel technologyoriented approach to assess key farmers' market food safety practices, such as hand washing and glove usage. Employee behaviors were observed and coded in accordance with Indiana State Department of Health criteria. Using Smartphone technology, direct observations on eighteen employees in Indiana farmers' markets were conducted, yielding 900 sequential food handling transactions. Results revealed that food safety behaviors were infrequently practiced, suggesting an increased risk of foodborne illnesses. MANOVA results showed that employees engaging in multiple simultaneous work roles demonstrated an increase in potential violations; however, simply increasing the number of employees working a booth does not ensure adequate work role segregation.The results signify the importance of having clearly divided employee work roles, a practice that contributes to better food safety behaviors at farmers' markets. [PUBLICATION ABSTRACT]