FOOD POISONING AND EATING HABIT: KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDES AND PRACTICE OF MEDICAL STUDENTS

Background: Food safety is a major public health concern among university students. This study assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding food safety and food poisoning among medical students at Asia International University (AIU). Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 150 medical students aged 18–30 years from Asia International University using a structured online questionnaire. Data on food safety knowledge, attitudes, and practices were collected and analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: Most respondents were aged 18–20 years (53.3%), from India (70.7%), and living in university hostels (95.4%). Regarding their level of knowledge, street food (46.6%) was identified as the leading cause of food poisoning, while E. coli (56%) was the most recognized foodborne pathogen. Poor sanitation (46.6%) was considered the main cause of foodborne illness outbreaks. Most students believed food poisoning is a serious concern (85.3%), supported regular food safety inspections (89.3%), and agreed that proper hygiene can prevent such illness (94%). In practice, 52% checked food temperature before consumption, and most reported washing their hands and utensils before eating. Conclusion: Medical students demonstrated positive attitudes toward food safety but showed gaps in knowledge and practices. Targeted educational programs are recommended to improve food safety awareness and behaviors.