Food safety knowledge and practices among pregnant and non-pregnant women in Slovenia

Food safety knowledge and practices among pregnant and non-pregnant women in Slovenia were systematically assessed through an inquiry-based investigation. The study was conducted with 291 pregnant women, who attended antenatal classes at the time of the investigation, and 200 non-pregnant women, all of whom participated during consultation hours for parents in ten, randomly selected primary schools in the country. Results showed that a high level of food safety awareness was possessed by both groups of respondents. However, some food safety differences were recorded (e.g., kitchen practices that can lead to cross-contamination), mainly in younger women under 25 years of age. Pregnant women more frequently had the main meal at fast-food restaurants and de-frosted frozen food at room temperature in the kitchen. However, when purchasing food they paid more attention to food safety assurance elements such as checking ‘best before’ date, paying attention to hygienic conditions in stores, and assessing the veterinary control of meat. The results showed that the living location (in town) and age group (above 25 years of age) had a significant impact on food safety knowledge. Educational programs in antenatal classes need to be supplemented with information concerning the principles of food safety at home in order to encourage desired food safety patterns. To achieve global food safety it is necessary to inform consumers, especially vulnerable groups, about fundamental principles of food safety assurance at home, since food safety begins and ends in the home of a consumer.