College Students Don't Practice Safe Eating Habits (Even When They Think They Do) - New Study
Efforts to teach young adults about food safety may not be hitting home, according to a new study of college student eating behaviors recently published in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association.
Researchers conducting this latest survey determined that many college students actively engage in eating behaviors that could make them sick -- behaviors such as eating raw homemade cookie dough or runny eggs. Although most people are becoming increasingly aware of food safety issues, the eating of raw eggs, undercooked hamburger, and other foods that harbor dangerous bacteria continues to be a problem among many Americans, according to members of the research team.
Scientists interviewed 4,343 students at 21 universities across the U.S. regarding their eating habits and their confidence in their ability to handle food safely. On average, the study participants reported feeling strongly that they could prepare and handle food safely.
Unfortunately, research data didn't support their strong feelings. Fifty-three percent of those students reported eating raw homemade cookie dough (which contains uncooked eggs), 33% said they ate fried eggs with soft or runny yolks, 29% ate sushi, and 28% consumed raw sprouts. Another 11% said they ate raw oysters, clams or mussels, and 7% said they ate pink hamburger. Students who perceived food poisoning to be a threat were found to be less likely to take such bold food safety chances. Also, white men were found to be among the most likely to eat risky foods.
Authors of the study recommend that health professionals should focus creative efforts on developing safe food consumption behaviors specifically for college-age children, and further help safeguard the health of the population.
Previously on the DC Metro Area Personal Injury Law Blog, we have posted articles related to:
- Food safety tips for take-out and delivery dishes
- Tips to disinfect kitchen sponges
- Guidelines for safe summer grilling
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