SAFE FOOD SELECTION PRACTICES AMONG NURSING AND PHARMACY STUDENTS AT THAI NGUYEN UNIVERSITY OF MEDICINE AND PHARMACY (2025) 

Thi Thuy Duong TRUONG1, , Viet Anh NGUYEN1, Thi Hong Hanh HOA1
1 Thai Nguyen University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vietnam

Main Article Content

Abstract

Aims: To assess the current status of safe food selection practices among Nursing and Pharmacy students at Thai Nguyen University of Medicine and Pharmacy in 2025.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 1,117 Nursing and Pharmacy students studying at the University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Thai Nguyen University in 2025. Data were collected using a structured self-administered questionnaire. The data were cleaned, coded, and entered using Epidata version 3.1 and analyzed using SPSS version 26.0.

Results: While 82.9% of students demonstrated accurate general knowledge regarding safe food selection, their proficiency in label interpretation and the recognition of food safety certifications was notably lower, at 52.1%. Although a significant majority (79.4%) exhibited a positive attitude—primarily acknowledging the link between food safety and health—only 48.2% maintained a favorable attitude toward selecting verified purchasing locations. Furthermore, while 66.1% of students reported correct food safety practices, primarily in verifying expiration dates and origins, the systematic prioritization of certified products and the regular scrutiny of food labels remain deficient.

Conclusions: One in three students has yet to properly practice choosing safe food. Strengthening communication and educational initiatives is essential for fostering improved knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors in food safety among health science students.

Article Details

References

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