Publication:
A Systematic Review on the Usability of Web-Based Applications in Advocating Consumers on Food Safety

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Abstract

Food safety is an important indicator of public health, as foodborne illnesses continue to cause productivity and economic loss. In recent years, web-based applications have been extensively used by the online users’ population. Almost one third (28.3%) of online users found web-based application to be a notable source of food safety information. The objective of the current review is to determine the effectiveness of a web-based application systems as a health promotion tool for consumers to increase their knowledge and awareness of food safety. A systematic literature review was conducted by analyzing 11 selected web-based food safety education-related articles. The studies were categorized into several themes: (1) web-based applications used in accessing food safety information; (2) food safety evaluation and perception among consumers; (3) beliefs and level of knowledge, attitude and practices (KAP) of consumers; and (4) impact and contribution of social media use. A diverse number of online applications have been utilized to promote food safety education among consumers, yet these web-based applications need to be improved with regards to social connection and integration among consumers. KAP surveys were conducted on the majority of the respondents with a particular focus on their knowledge level. Findings show that web-based applications may act as an alternative to the traditional media in enhancing food safety education among consumers, especially youths who are tech-savvy.

Description

Foods 2022, 11(1), 115; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods11010115

Keywords

food safety; consumers; restaurants; web-based education; knowledge

Citation

Seow W-L, Md Ariffin UK, Lim SY, Mohamed NA, Lee KW, Devaraj NK, Amin-Nordin S. A Systematic Review on the Usability of Web-Based Applications in Advocating Consumers on Food Safety. Foods. 2022; 11(1):115. https://doi.org/10.3390/foods11010115