Abstract
A canteen is a designated area within a school where students can purchase and consume food, contributing to their nutritional needs and social interactions. However, inadequate sanitation and hygiene practices in canteens can lead to health risks and negatively impact students' well-being and academic performance. This study evaluates the adherence of canteen personnel to proper sanitation and hygiene practices and investigates the relationship between these practices and students' observations of these practices within canteens at Saint Mary’s University. Utilizing both quantitative and qualitative methods, data were gathered through survey questionnaires administered to canteen personnel and students of both Senior High School and college, with profile variables including age, sex, and grade level. Findings indicate a high level of adherence to hygiene and sanitation practices based on students’ observations, with canteen personnel reporting a high level of adherence. Notably, there was no significant relationship between the self-evaluations of canteen personnel and students’ observations. Additionally, no significant differences in adherence were found based on the age and sex of canteen personnel. To improve cleanliness in the canteen, recommendations include constant monitoring, ensuring the availability of sanitation materials, implementing better facilities, continuous adherence to health and safety rules, managing designated roles effectively, and considering the expansion of canteen space. However, the generalizability of these findings maybe limited due to the study's focus on a single institution, which may not represent the diverse practices and conditions of canteens in other educational settings.
