Table 5 Definitions of optimal food preparation and hygiene behaviors [41, 52]
Behavior of interest | Definition |
|---|---|
Handwashing | Handwashing with soap and water by the caregiver and the child at critical times (before eating; before feeding child; before, during and after food preparation; after defecation of caregiver and/or child; after cleaning area/tools for child defecation) |
Washing food | Washing of fruits and vegetables before eating |
Cooking and reheating food | Cooking of food until boiling/very hot; reheating left-over food to appropriate temperature (until very hot) before eating or feeding the child |
Cleaning utensils and food preparation surfaces | Washing and drying of utensils and food preparation surfaces after use Food preparation space cleanable, inaccessible to animals and elevated off the floor Utensils stored dry, free of dirt and debris, and inaccessible to animals and children |
Covering and storing food | Food covered after it is removed from fire. Food inaccessible to animals, children, and flies. Storing food at ambient temperature for no more than 4Â h |